Apple Carrot Oat Bake is a delightful and wholesome dish that combines the natural sweetness of apples and carrots with the hearty goodness of oats. This easy-to-make bake is perfect for breakfast, a healthy snack, or even a light dessert. Packed with nutrients, it’s a great way to sneak in some fruits and veggies, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delicious treat in your own kitchen!
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats (180 g)
- 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (240 ml) (e.g., almond, oat, or soy milk)
- 2 medium apples, grated (approximately 250 g)
- 1 large carrot, grated (approximately 120 g)
- 1/2 cup raisins (75 g) (or chopped dates for sweetness)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional, 25 g)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (5 ml)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (2.5 g)
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg (1 g)
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt (1.5 g)
- 1 tsp baking powder (4 g)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional, for texture, 30 g)
Directions
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch round or square baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine rolled oats, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, fine sea salt, baking powder, and optional shredded coconut or nuts. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
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Prepare Wet Mixture: In a larger bowl, stir together the grated apples, grated carrot, raisins, plant-based milk, and vanilla extract until combined.
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Combine Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix until everything is well combined, and the oats have absorbed some of the liquid.
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Pour and Smooth: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula.
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Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Cool and Slice: Allow the bake to cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing it into wedges or squares.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 9 squares
Nutrition Info: Approximately 180 calories per serving (based on ingredients used).
How to Serve
Apple Carrot Oat Bake can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. It’s delicious on its own or topped with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of maple syrup for added sweetness. You can also serve it with fresh fruit or a sprinkle of nuts for extra texture. Whether for breakfast or a healthy snack, this bake is sure to please!
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the oats with gluten-free options?
Yes! You can use certified gluten-free oats to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
2. How should I store the leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or enjoy them cold.
3. Can I add other fruits or nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding other fruits like bananas or berries and different nuts or seeds according to your preference.