Oat and Fruit Bake

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Delicious Oat and Fruit Bake topped with fresh fruits and nuts

Oat and Fruit Bake is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines the wholesome goodness of oats with the natural sweetness of fruits. This recipe offers a warm and comforting flavor that can easily brighten your day. Whether you are searching for a healthy breakfast option, a delicious snack, or a light dessert, Oat and Fruit Bake can satisfy your cravings. It is simple to make and can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Why make this recipe

There are many reasons to love this Oat and Fruit Bake recipe. It is healthy, delicious, and incredibly easy to prepare. First, oats are a great source of fiber, which is essential for digestive health. They keep you feeling full for a longer time, making this bake perfect for breakfast or a midday snack. The fruits add natural sweetness and vitamins, enhancing the overall nutrition of the dish. This recipe is also customizable; you can mix and match fruits or nuts based on what you have on hand. Additionally, it is gluten-free if made with certified gluten-free oats, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Lastly, it is a one-dish recipe that saves you time on clean-up.

How to make Oat and Fruit Bake

Making Oat and Fruit Bake is straightforward. With just a few steps, you can create a wholesome and tasty dish. Gather your ingredients, follow the directions, and enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen as it bakes.

Ingredients:

  • 100g of ground oats (1 cup)
  • 50g of whole oats (0.5 cup)
  • 1 apple (about 180g)
  • 1 banana (about 120g)
  • Cinnamon (to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons of coconut oil (30ml)
  • 40g of nuts (1.4 ounces)

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Grind 100g of oats to a fine consistency using a food processor or a blender.
  3. In a large bowl, mix the ground oats with 50g of whole oats.
  4. Dice one apple and one banana into small pieces.
  5. Add the diced apple and banana to the oat mixture and combine them well.
  6. Sprinkle cinnamon over the mixture according to your taste preferences and stir.
  7. Measure 2 tablespoons of coconut oil and add it to the mixture. Mix well until the ingredients are combined.
  8. Chop 40g of nuts, add them to the mixture, and stir until evenly distributed.
  9. Transfer the mixture into an ovenproof dish, spreading it out evenly.
  10. Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until it turns golden brown and becomes set.

How to serve Oat and Fruit Bake

Oat and Fruit Bake is versatile in how you can serve it. You can enjoy it warm right out of the oven or let it cool and serve it at room temperature. For breakfast, slice a portion and serve it with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of honey. You can also add fresh fruits for a refreshing touch. For a snack, it pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. You may even sprinkle some extra nuts or seeds on top for added crunch.

How to store Oat and Fruit Bake

To store Oat and Fruit Bake, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze it. Cut the bake into individual servings, wrap them in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe container. Oat and Fruit Bake can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat it in the oven or microwave.

Tips to make Oat and Fruit Bake

Here are some helpful tips to make your Oat and Fruit Bake even better:

  • Use ripe fruits for maximum sweetness. Overripe bananas, for instance, are perfect for this recipe.
  • Feel free to substitute different fruits, such as berries, peaches, or pears, depending on what’s in season or what you prefer.
  • Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
  • Mix in some seeds like flaxseeds or chia seeds for additional nutritional benefits.
  • Experiment with spices. You can add vanilla extract or nutmeg for a different flavor twist.

Variation (if any)

If you want to put a twist on the Oat and Fruit Bake, here are some delicious variations:

  • Berry Oat Bake: Replace the apple and banana with mixed berries such as blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries.
  • Nutty Oat Bake: Include different types of nuts, like walnuts, almonds, or pecans, for different textures and flavors.
  • Spiced Oat Bake: Add spices like ginger or cardamom to create a warming flavor.
  • Chocolate Chip Oat Bake: Incorporate dark chocolate chips for a sweeter dessert option.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Simply use plant-based yogurt, almond milk, or any other vegan substitute instead of dairy products if you choose to serve it with toppings.

2. Is it necessary to grind the oats?
Grinding the oats gives a smoother texture, but you can skip this step if you prefer a chunkier bake with whole oats only.

3. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
You can use quick oats, but the texture will be different. Rolled oats typically hold their shape better during baking.

4. How can I make it gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free oats as all other ingredients in this recipe are inherently gluten-free.

5. How do I know when it’s done baking?
The Oat and Fruit Bake is done when the top is golden brown and firm to touch. You can insert a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean.

Nutritional Info

  • Serving Size: 1/8 of the bake
  • Calories: 220
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Protein: 5g

With its simple ingredients and easy steps, Oat and Fruit Bake is an excellent choice for a healthy meal. Delight your taste buds with this delicious and nourishing recipe!