Ingredients Overview:
Oatmeal: A rich source of fiber and essential nutrients, providing a hearty base for this dish.
Cranberries: Add a touch of natural sweetness and a burst of flavor.
Dried Apricots: Provide natural sweetness and are rich in vitamins and minerals.
Nuts: Offer healthy fats, protein, and a delightful crunch. You can choose your favorite nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or pecans.
Banana: Adds natural sweetness and moisture to the baked oatmeal.
Apple: Contributes a fresh, crisp texture and natural sweetness.
Oat Flakes: Enhance the texture and add extra fiber to the dish.
Directions in Detail:
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
Prepare Ingredients:
Slice the banana and apple into small pieces.
Chop the dried apricots into smaller bits to distribute evenly throughout the dish.
Roughly chop the nuts of your choice for added texture and flavor.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the oatmeal, cranberries, dried apricots, nuts, banana slices, and apple pieces. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Add Oat Flakes: Add the oat flakes to the mixture and stir until everything is well combined. The oat flakes add extra texture and help bind the ingredients together.
Bake: Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the mixture is set.
Cool and Serve: Let the baked oatmeal cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to slice and serve. Enjoy your delicious and healthy baked oatmeal warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Perfect Baked Oatmeal:
Uniform Slicing: Ensure the banana and apple pieces are evenly sized for consistent baking.
Nutritional Boost: Add a tablespoon of chia seeds or flaxseeds for an extra nutritional boost.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Nutritional Benefits:
High in Fiber: Oatmeal, oat flakes, and fruit provide a good amount of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you full longer.
No Added Sugar: This recipe relies on the natural sweetness of fruits, making it a healthier alternative to sugar-laden snacks.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: The combination of dried and fresh fruits, along with nuts, provides a range of essential vitamins and minerals.