Start your morning with this delightful and nourishing dish that brings together the comforting flavors of baked oats, crisp apples, and tart cranberries. This High-Fiber Apple-Cranberry Baked Oats Recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a nutritious and satisfying breakfast. Packed with dietary fiber, vitamins, and natural sweetness, it’s an excellent choice to kickstart your day or serve as a wholesome addition to your brunch menu.
Baked oats have become a trendy breakfast staple for good reason. They are versatile, easy to prepare, and packed with nutrients. This recipe takes baked oats to the next level by incorporating apples for natural sweetness, cranberries for a tangy twist, and flaxseed for an added dose of omega-3s and fiber.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is more than just a breakfast dish—it’s a health-packed, time-saving solution for busy mornings. Here are the reasons why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:
- Rich in Fiber: The combination of oats, flaxseed, and fruit provides a hearty dose of dietary fiber, which is essential for maintaining digestive health and keeping you full throughout the day.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Add nuts, swap the fruit, or adjust the sweetness to make it your own.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Prepare this dish ahead of time and enjoy it for several days, saving you time during busy mornings.
- Naturally Sweetened: Using maple syrup and fresh apples keeps the recipe naturally sweet without relying on refined sugars.
- A Comforting Treat: Warm, lightly spiced, and hearty, this dish feels like a comforting hug in every bite.
Explore more wholesome breakfast recipes here.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups (200g) rolled oats: The base of the dish, providing fiber and a chewy texture.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Enhances the flavor with subtle nuttiness.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the dish rise slightly.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
- 1/4 cup (30g) ground flaxseed: Adds fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
- 2 cups (480ml) unsweetened almond milk: A creamy, dairy-free base.
- 1/4 cup (60ml) maple syrup: A natural sweetener that pairs beautifully with the fruit.
- 2 large eggs: Helps bind the ingredients. Substitute with flax eggs for a vegan option.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses the dish with a fragrant sweetness.
- 2 medium apples, diced: Provides natural sweetness and a slight crunch.
- 1/2 cup (60g) dried cranberries: Adds tangy bursts of flavor. Opt for unsweetened cranberries if you prefer less sugar.
Optional Toppings
- Chopped walnuts or pecans: For added crunch.
- Drizzle of almond butter or honey: For extra richness.
- Fresh apple slices or cranberries: Aesthetic and delicious garnishes.
Directions
1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper. Preheating ensures even cooking and a golden finish.
2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, salt, and ground flaxseed. Stir thoroughly to ensure all the spices and dry components are evenly distributed.
3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond milk, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Combine the wet mixture with the dry ingredients in the bowl. Stir gently until everything is well combined.
4: Incorporate the Fruit
Fold in the diced apples and dried cranberries. Make sure the fruit is evenly distributed throughout the mixture to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. For added texture and flavor, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oats are firm.
6: Cool and Serve
Allow the baked oats to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Add your favorite toppings, such as a drizzle of almond butter or fresh fruit, for a finishing touch.
Check out more oatmeal recipes at Quaker Oats.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Apples: Opt for firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith to maintain texture during baking.
- Don’t Skip the Flaxseed: This ingredient not only boosts the fiber content but also adds a subtle nutty flavor.
- Adjust the Sweetness: Depending on the sweetness of your apples, you can reduce or increase the amount of maple syrup.
- Make It Vegan: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg) for a plant-based version.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 12g
FAQs
Q: Can I use steel-cut oats?
A: No, steel-cut oats require longer cooking times and more liquid. Rolled oats are ideal for this recipe due to their quick cooking time and soft texture.
Q: Can I substitute the cranberries?
A: Yes, dried cherries or raisins work well as substitutes for cranberries.
Q: How long does this keep?
A: Store baked oats in the fridge for up to 5 days. Alternatively, freeze individual portions for up to 1 month.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Slice the baked oats into individual portions, wrap them tightly, and freeze for up to 1 month.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or microwave for 1–2 minutes.
Variations
- Berry Bliss: Substitute cranberries and apples with blueberries or blackberries for a vibrant, juicy twist.
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped almonds or hazelnuts for a delightful crunch.
- Chocolate Indulgence: Mix in dark chocolate chips for a sweet treat.
Conclusion
High-Fiber Apple-Cranberry Baked Oats are the perfect blend of flavor, nutrition, and convenience. Whether you’re preparing for a busy week, hosting a casual brunch, or simply craving a comforting breakfast, this dish has you covered. With customizable options and an array of health benefits, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
For more wholesome breakfast ideas, visit AllRecipes Healthy Breakfasts. Explore even more oatmeal inspirations at Quaker Oats.
1 thought on “High-Fiber Apple-Cranberry Baked Oats Recipe – A Wholesome Start to Your Day.”