Fruit and Nut Oatmeal Bake: A Healthy and Hearty Treat

This recipe creates a moist and flavorful oatmeal bake, packed with a variety of fruits and nuts. It’s a perfect breakfast, snack, or dessert option, offering a nutritious and satisfying treat. The combination of raisins, sultanas, cherries, apples, bananas, and Brazil nuts provides a rich source of fiber, vitamins, and healthy fats.

Preparation Time: 25 minutes

• • This includes soaking the dried fruits, pureeing the apples, mashing the banana, and mixing the batter.

Cook Time: 45-50 minutes

• This is the baking time for the oatmeal bake.

Total Time: 1 hour 10-15 minutes

• This includes all preparation and cooking time.

Ingredients:

• • 100g raisins

• • 100g sultanas
  • 1 cup (100g) rolled oats
  • 2 medium apples (about 300g)

• • 100-120 ml water
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 ripe banana

• • 100g fresh or frozen cherries (pitted)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • Vegetable oil (for greasing the baking dish)

• 50g Brazil nuts, chopped

Directions:

1. 1. Prep the Raisins and Sultanas:

      • • Place the raisins and sultanas in a bowl.
        • Pour boiling water over them and let them soak for 10 minutes to soften.
        • Drain the soaked fruits and set them aside.

   2. Prepare the Oatmeal:

      • • Place the rolled oats in a blender or food processor.
      • Pulse until the oats are finely chopped. You don’t need to turn them into flour, just a finer consistency.

   3. Puree the Apples:

      • • Peel, core, and chop the apples.
        • Place the chopped apples and water in a blender or food processor.
        • Blend until smooth.

   4. Mix the Ingredients:

      • • In a large mixing bowl, pour the pureed apples.
      • • Add the eggs and mix well with a whisk or spoon.
        • Mash the banana with a fork until smooth.
        • Add the mashed banana to the apple and egg mixture. Stir to combine.

   5. Add the Fruits:

      • • Add the drained raisins, sultanas, and cherries to the mixture.
      • Mix well to distribute the fruits evenly.

   6. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients:

      • Add the finely chopped oatmeal and baking powder to the mixture.
      • Stir thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined.

1. 1. Prepare the Baking Dish:

      • • Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F).
        • Grease a baking dish (approximately 8×8 or 9×9 inches) well with vegetable oil. You can also line the dish with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

   2. Combine and Bake:

      • • Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
      • Chop the Brazil nuts and sprinkle them over the top of the mixture.
      • Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

2. Cool and Serve:

   • • Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the oatmeal bake cool completely before cutting it into squares or bars.
     • Serve as a breakfast bar, a snack, or a healthy dessert.

Nutritional Facts (Approximate per serving, based on 9 servings):

• • Calories: 250-350

• • Protein: 8-10g
  • Fat: 10-15g
  • Carbohydrates: 40-50g

• Fiber: 8-10g

The Origins and Popularity of This Recipe:

Oatmeal bakes have become increasingly popular as a healthy and convenient breakfast or snack option. This recipe combines the goodness of oats with a variety of fruits and nuts, creating a nutrient-rich and satisfying treat. The use of natural sweeteners from fruits and the addition of healthy fats from nuts make this a well-balanced and wholesome dish. The popularity of this recipe stems from its simplicity, versatility, and the ability to customize it with various ingredients. It’s a perfect option for meal prepping, picnics, and casual gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• • It’s a healthy and delicious snack or breakfast.
  • It’s easy to customize with your favorite fruits and nuts.

• It’s a great way to use up ripe bananas and apples.
• It’s perfect for meal prepping.

Health Benefits:

• • Oats are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
  • Fruits provide vitamins, antioxidants, and natural sweetness.
  • Nuts are rich in healthy fats, protein, and fiber.

• Baking powder adds lightness to the texture.

Serving Suggestions:

• • Serve as a breakfast bar with yogurt or milk.

• • Pack them in lunchboxes or for travel.
  • Serve as a healthy dessert with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream.
  • Enjoy them warm or at room temperature.

Tips:

• • Puree the apples thoroughly for a smooth texture.
  • Adjust the amount of water depending on the consistency of your apples.

• • Add honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness if desired.
  • Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
  • Don’t overbake to prevent the bars from becoming dry.

Variations to Try:

• • Add other fruits: Dried cranberries, chopped dates, or blueberries can be added.
  • Use different nuts: Almonds, pecans, or walnuts can be used instead of Brazil nuts.

• • Add spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger can be added for extra flavor.
  • Make it chocolatey: Add cocoa powder or chocolate chips to the batter.
  • Add seeds: Chia seeds, flax seeds, or sunflower seeds can be added for extra nutrients.

Conclusion:

This fruit and nut oatmeal bake is a delightful and nutritious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple preparation and customizable ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!