Introduction
Kickstart your mornings with this incredibly simple and wholesome Oatmeal Bake that proves healthy eating can be both delicious and effortless. Packed with natural sweetness from fruits and the comforting warmth of cinnamon, this breakfast dish is a game-changer for those seeking a nutritious, make-ahead morning meal.
Ingredients
US Measurements:
- Rolled oats: 2 cups (180g)
- Milk: 1 1/2 cups (360ml) – dairy or plant-based
- Eggs: 2 large (100g)
- Ripe bananas: 2 medium (200g), mashed
- Apple: 1 medium (150g), diced
- Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon (2g)
- Optional: Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Metric Measurements:
- Rolled oats: 180g
- Milk: 360ml
- Eggs: 100g
- Bananas: 200g
- Apple: 150g
- Cinnamon: 2g
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Baking Setup
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Grease a 9×9 inch (23×23 cm) baking dish
- Ensure oven rack is in the middle position
- Prepare Ingredients
- Mash ripe bananas thoroughly
- Dice apple into small, uniform pieces
- Measure out all other ingredients
- Mix Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk eggs
- Add milk and mashed bananas
- Mix until well combined
- Optional: Add vanilla extract
- Combine Dry Ingredients
- Add rolled oats to the wet mixture
- Sprinkle in ground cinnamon
- Optional: Add a pinch of salt
- Stir until ingredients are evenly distributed
- Prepare for Baking
- Fold in diced apple pieces
- Ensure apple is evenly spread throughout mixture
- Pour into prepared baking dish
- Smooth top with a spatula
- Bake
- Place in preheated oven
- Bake for 35-40 minutes
- Look for golden-brown top
- Center should be set and slightly firm
- Cool and Serve
- Remove from oven
- Let cool for 10-15 minutes
- Cut into squares
- Serve warm or at room temperature
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 180-200 per serving
- Protein: 7-8g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fat: 5-6g
- Fiber: 4-5g
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 40 minutes Total Time: 50 minutes Servings: 6-8 squares
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use very ripe bananas for natural sweetness
- Choose firm, crisp apples for best texture
- Don’t overmix the batter
- Allow to cool slightly for easier cutting
- Use parchment paper for easy removal
Variations and Substitutions
- Protein Boost: Add protein powder
- Nut-Free: Skip nuts, add seeds
- Dairy-Free: Use almond or oat milk
- Flavor Variations:
- Add berries
- Sprinkle chopped nuts
- Mix in chocolate chips
- Spice Options:
- Nutmeg
- Cardamom
- Pumpkin pie spice
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this ahead of time? A: Yes! Refrigerate for up to 5 days, reheat before serving.
Q2: Is this suitable for meal prep? A: Perfect for batch cooking and portioning.
Q3: Can I freeze this oatmeal bake? A: Absolutely! Freeze in individual portions.
Q4: Is this good for weight loss? A: High in fiber, protein, and whole grains.
Q5: Can I use quick oats? A: Rolled oats work best for texture.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in airtight container for 5 days
- Freezing: Wrap individually, freeze up to 1 month
- Reheating: Microwave or warm in oven
- Meal Prep: Perfect for grab-and-go breakfasts
Fuel your morning with this delightful, nutritious Oatmeal Bake! 🍎🥣✨