Description
This Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for a nutritious morning meal. Combining old-fashioned oats with fresh apples, warm spices, and a touch of maple syrup, this baked oatmeal is naturally sweetened and packed with wholesome ingredients. Optional walnuts add a delightful crunch, making it a satisfying and cozy start to your day.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 2 apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
Wet Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups milk (or dairy-free alternative)
- â…“ cup maple syrup
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Topping
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prepare it for baking the oatmeal mixture.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the oats, chopped apples, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, salt, and baking powder thoroughly to ensure the spices and leavening are evenly distributed.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk or dairy-free alternative, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry oat mixture and stir everything until fully combined, ensuring the oats are well coated and the apples are evenly dispersed.
- Assemble the Bake: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly to create a uniform layer for baking.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the chopped walnuts evenly over the top of the oatmeal mixture if using, adding texture and flavor.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the oats are set and the top is lightly golden brown, indicating it is cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bake to cool slightly for a few minutes to firm up before cutting it into squares.
- Serve: Serve the oatmeal bake warm and enjoy a delicious, hearty breakfast.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with almond, soy, or oat milk.
- Chopped walnuts are optional, but they add a nice crunch and nutrition.
- You can substitute apples with pears or berries for different flavors.
- If you want extra sweetness, drizzle a little more maple syrup on top before serving.
- This bake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheated before serving.
