Name: Cranberry Apple Baked Oatmeal
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups oats; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1/2 tsp salt; 3/4 tsp baking powder; 1.5 cups unsweetened apple sauce; 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or skim); 2 large eggs; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 2 tbsp maple syrup; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh cranberries; 1 apple, diced

Why Make This Recipe

Cranberry Apple Baked Oatmeal is a delightful dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. It combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of apples and the warmth of spices, creating a comforting start to your day. This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. It’s packed with fiber from oats and fresh fruit, making it a healthy choice for the whole family. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be adapted to suit your taste!

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How to Make Cranberry Apple Baked Oatmeal

Ingredients:

2 cups oats
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 tsp baking powder
1.5 cups unsweetened apple sauce
1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or skim)
2 large eggs
2 tbsp brown sugar
2 tbsp maple syrup
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup fresh cranberries
1 apple, diced

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
In a large bowl, mix together the oats, salt, baking powder, and cinnamon.
In another bowl, stir together the applesauce, almond milk, eggs, brown sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
Combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients until mixed well.
Fold in the cranberries and diced apple.
Pour the mixture into a baking dish (I used a 9 X 9 dish for 6 servings) that has been sprayed with cooking spray.
Bake for 45 minutes, or until the oatmeal is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let cool slightly and serve.

How to Serve Cranberry Apple Baked Oatmeal

Cranberry Apple Baked Oatmeal can be served warm or at room temperature. You can top it with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of yogurt, or even some nuts for added crunch. It pairs well with fresh fruit or a glass of milk for a wholesome meal.

How to Store Cranberry Apple Baked Oatmeal

To store leftovers, let the baked oatmeal cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in the oven until heated through.

Tips to Make Cranberry Apple Baked Oatmeal

Ensure your cranberries are fresh for the best flavor. If using frozen cranberries, do not thaw them before adding.
Feel free to add nuts or seeds to the mixture for added texture.
Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar or maple syrup according to your taste.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe by using different types of fruit such as blueberries, raspberries, or even pears. For a nutty flavor, try adding chopped walnuts or almonds.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture the night before and refrigerate it. Just bake it in the morning!

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free oats, this recipe can be made gluten-free.

3. Can I substitute the eggs?
Yes, you can use flax eggs or applesauce as an egg substitute if you want a vegan option. Use 1 tbsp of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tbsp of water for each egg.