Baked Oatmeal with Apples and Cottage Cheese

Baked Oatmeal with Apples and Cottage Cheese

Ingredients

• • 1 cup (90 g) oatmeal
  • ½ cup (150 ml) warm milk

• • 2 apples, peeled and chopped
  • 1 tbsp (20 g) butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (or vanillin)

• • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup (50 g) chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts, pecans)
  • 1 tbsp avocado oil (or any vegetable oil)

• • 1 cup (80 g) oat flakes
  • 1 cup (250 g) cottage cheese
  • 1 egg (for the cottage cheese mixture)

• • 2-3 tbsp sweetener (e.g., honey, maple syrup, or stevia)
  • ¼ cup (30 g) coconut flour
  • Extra vegetable oil for greasing

Directions

• • Prepare the base: In a bowl, combine 1 cup of oatmeal with ½ cup of warm milk and let it soak for 10 minutes.
  • Cook the apples: Melt the butter in a frying pan, add the chopped apples, and fry until they are tender. Add vanilla extract for flavor.
  • Mix the oatmeal batter: In a mixing bowl, beat 2 eggs, then stir in the nuts, avocado oil, soaked oatmeal, and oat flakes.

• • Prepare the cottage cheese layer: In a separate bowl, mix the cottage cheese with 1 egg, sweetener, and coconut flour until smooth.
  • Assemble the dish: Grease a baking dish with oil. Pour in the oatmeal mixture as the base, then layer the cottage cheese mixture on top.
  • Bake: Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F) and bake for 30 minutes until golden and set.

• Serve: Let the baked oatmeal cool slightly before cutting. Serve warm or cold.

Serving Suggestions

• • Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey.
  • Add a handful of fresh berries or sliced bananas on top for extra flavor.

• For a crunchier texture, sprinkle toasted nuts or seeds on top before serving.

Cooking Tips

• • Make sure to let the oatmeal soak in warm milk for 10 minutes to soften it up.
  • For a dairy-free option, substitute cottage cheese with plant-based cream cheese and use almond or soy milk.

• If you prefer a sweeter dish, add extra sweetener or sprinkle a little cinnamon over the top.

Nutritional Benefits

• • High in Protein: Cottage cheese and eggs provide a good source of protein, helping you stay full for longer.
  • Rich in Fiber: Oats and apples are packed with dietary fiber, which supports healthy digestion.

• Low in Added Sugars: The natural sweetness from the apples and your choice of sweetener make this dish a healthier option than traditional baked goods.
• Healthy Fats: The nuts and avocado oil provide heart-healthy fats.

Dietary Information

• • Vegetarian: This recipe contains dairy and eggs but is free from meat.

• Gluten-Free: If using certified gluten-free oats, this dish is suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the cottage cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, makes 6 servings)

• • Calories: 280

• • Protein: 12 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 6 g

• Fats: 12 g
• Sugars: 8 g

Storage Tips

• • Refrigeration: Store the baked oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze individual portions by wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for 10 minutes.