Indulge in a warm, comforting Oatmeal, Apple, and Banana Bake that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutritious ingredients. This wholesome breakfast or snack is perfect for anyone looking to start their day with a healthy and satisfying dish. Loaded with oats, fruits, nuts, and a touch of natural sweetness, this bake is easy to prepare and makes for a hearty option that the whole family will enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Oatmeal, Apple, and Banana Bake combines the wholesome goodness of oats with the natural sweetness of apples and bananas, making it an ideal option for a healthy breakfast or snack. This bake is a wonderful way to use up overripe bananas and apples, turning them into a delicious dish that’s high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Plus, the addition of nuts provides a satisfying crunch and healthy fats that keep you full longer.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- Oatmeal: 2 cups (160 g)
- Nuts (e.g., walnuts or almonds): 50 g (about 1.8 oz), chopped
- Apples: 2 medium, peeled, cored, and grated
- Sweetener: 2 tablespoons (adjust to taste; options include honey, maple syrup, or your preferred sweetener)
- Yogurt: 200 g (about 7 oz), plain or Greek
- Eggs: 2, at room temperature
- Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon (4 g)
- Banana: 1 ripe, mashed
- Oil: For greasing the mold (use a neutral oil like canola or coconut oil)
Optional for Garnish:
- Raspberries: Fresh raspberries for topping
- Powdered Sugar: A light dusting for added sweetness and presentation
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (360°F). This will ensure your bake cooks evenly and develops a beautiful golden crust.
- Grease the Baking Dish: Use a bit of oil to grease a baking dish. This helps prevent sticking and makes it easier to serve later on. A 9×9 inch (23×23 cm) baking dish works well for this recipe, but any similar size will do.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the oatmeal, chopped nuts, and baking powder. Stir well to ensure the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This step is crucial as it helps the bake rise slightly, giving it a light and fluffy texture.
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients
- Beat the Eggs: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until they become slightly frothy. This helps to add air to the mixture, making the bake lighter.
- Add Remaining Wet Ingredients: To the beaten eggs, add the yogurt, sweetener, grated apples, and mashed banana. Mix everything together until well combined. The yogurt adds moisture and creaminess, while the banana and apple contribute natural sweetness and flavor.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Mix Together: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until all the ingredients are fully incorporated. Ensure the oatmeal and nuts are evenly distributed throughout the batter for consistent flavor and texture in every bite.
5. Bake
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth the top, ensuring the mixture is evenly spread for uniform baking.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes. The bake is ready when the top turns golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the bake as it nears the end of the cooking time.
6. Cool and Serve
- Cool Slightly: Allow the bake to cool in the dish for about 10 minutes. This helps it set, making it easier to cut into squares.
- Serve: Cut into squares and serve warm. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh raspberries or a light dusting of powdered sugar. This adds a burst of freshness and a touch of elegance to your dish.
Nutritional Information
- Serving Size: 1 square (based on 9 servings)
- Calories: 180 kcal per serving
- Total Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 23 g
- Dietary Fiber: 4 g
- Sugars: 9 g
- Protein: 5 g
This Oatmeal, Apple, and Banana Bake is a nutritious, fiber-packed option that provides sustained energy. The combination of oats and fruit makes it a great choice for breakfast, while the nuts offer added protein and healthy fats. Adjust the sweetener to your liking for a breakfast treat that suits your taste and dietary preferences.
Pro Tips:
- Customization: Feel free to add other fruits like blueberries or raisins, or spice it up with cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Make It Vegan: Substitute the eggs with flaxseed eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use a dairy-free yogurt option.
Enjoy this delightful Oatmeal, Apple, and Banana Bake as a wholesome start to your day or a cozy afternoon snack. It’s perfect for meal prep, as it keeps well and can be enjoyed throughout the week. Bon appétit!
