Introduction
Looking for a warm and cozy breakfast that’s both nutritious and incredibly satisfying? This Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake is just the ticket! It’s packed with wholesome ingredients and the delightful sweetness of apples, making it a perfect start to your day. With the comforting aroma of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen, you’ll feel like autumn has embraced you in every delicious bite. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, so you can savor those peaceful morning moments.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 2 medium apples, diced (about 2 cups)
- 1/2 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring it’s ready to hold all the deliciousness that’s about to come!
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond milk, maple syrup, applesauce, and diced apples. Add in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and baking powder. Stir everything together until fully combined, creating a delightful mixture that’s bursting with flavor.
- Gently fold in the chopped nuts and raisins or dried cranberries if you’re using them. These little bursts of sweetness and crunch will add an extra layer of deliciousness.
- Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure each portion gets that tasty topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown and the mixture has set. You’ll know it’s ready when you can smell the warm spices filling your kitchen!
- Once it’s done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This will help everything settle and make for a delightful slice!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to experiment with different nuts or fruits. Chopped pears or berries can also make a great addition or substitution.
- For a little extra indulgence, serve warm with a drizzle of additional maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt.
- This breakfast bake can be prepared the night before and stored in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven in the morning for a warm breakfast treat!
Cooking Techniques
When baking, it’s essential to keep an eye on how it’s browning. Every oven is different, so if you find that it’s browning too quickly, simply cover it with foil during the last few minutes of baking. This will help ensure that the inside cooks through without over-baking the top.
FAQ
- Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
While rolled oats give a great texture, you can use quick oats; just be mindful that the bake may turn out a bit softer. - Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you choose gluten-free oats and check that your other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Conclusion
This Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate, perfect for chilly mornings or brunch with friends. With its simple preparation and comforting flavors, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your home. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy a delightful start to your day that will leave everyone asking for seconds!