Oatmeal, Apple, and Carrot Breakfast Bake
This oatmeal, apple, and carrot breakfast bake is a perfect way to start your day with a hearty, nutritious, and delicious breakfast. Packed with oats, fresh fruit, and dried apricots, it’s a satisfying and wholesome meal that’s easy to make. This bake provides a great source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants to keep you feeling energized all morning long!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups (200 g) rolled oats, chopped in a blender (for a finer texture)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk of your choice (almond milk, cow’s milk, oat milk, etc.)
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 9 dried apricots, rinsed with hot water and chopped
- 4 tablespoons raisins, rinsed with hot water
- 1 apple, grated
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3 large eggs
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking dish. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. - Prepare Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped oats and baking powder. Blending the oats in a blender or food processor gives the bake a smoother texture, so feel free to pulse the oats a few times until they’re finely chopped. - Add Wet Ingredients:
Add the milk, grated carrot, chopped apricots, raisins, grated apple, ground cinnamon, and eggs into the oat mixture. Stir everything together until well combined. The grated apple and carrot add natural sweetness and moisture, while the raisins and apricots offer a delightful chewiness and extra flavor. - Mix and Pour:
Once everything is fully mixed, pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula to make sure the mixture is well-distributed. - Bake:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it after 30 minutes. - Let it Cool and Serve:
Once baked, allow the breakfast bake to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Tips and Variations:
- Sweetener: If you like your breakfast bake sweeter, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the batter before baking.
- Add-ins: You can customize this bake with different fruits like pears, berries, or banana slices. Adding a handful of nuts or seeds (like chia seeds or walnuts) can provide an extra crunch.
- Serve with: For an extra protein boost, serve your bake with a dollop of Greek yogurt or drizzle some almond butter on top.
This oatmeal, apple, and carrot breakfast bake is a versatile and nutritious option for busy mornings. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a convenient breakfast or snack to grab on the go. Enjoy!