🥣 Zucchini and Oatmeal Bake
This soft, lightly sweetened bake is the perfect blend of hearty oats, warm cinnamon, and hidden veggies. Whether you’re looking for a healthy breakfast, snack, or even dessert—you’ll love this one-bowl wonder. Plus, it’s kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and ideal for meal prep!
📝 Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats
- 1 cup grated zucchini (squeeze out excess moisture with a towel or cheesecloth)
- 1 cup milk (dairy or any plant-based alternative like almond, soy, oat)
- 2 eggs (or 2 flax eggs: 2 tbsp ground flaxseed + 6 tbsp water)
- ¼ cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
Optional Add-ins (highly recommended!):
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds, or pecans)
- ¼ cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp flaxseed or chia seeds for extra fiber and nutrition
👩🍳 Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs (or flax eggs), milk, maple syrup/honey, vanilla, cinnamon, salt, and baking powder.
- Stir in the oats and grated zucchini.
- Fold in any optional add-ins (nuts, chocolate chips, etc.).
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the center is set and the top is golden.
- Let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or chilled.
Notes:
- Texture preference: For a firmer, bar-like bake, reduce milk to ¾ cup.
- Use quick oats for a smoother texture or rolled oats for a heartier bite.
- Squeeze zucchini thoroughly—too much moisture = mushy bake!
- Make it nut-free by omitting nuts or using sunflower seeds.
🌟 Tips:
- Store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze slices for up to 3 months.
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 20–30 seconds.
- Pair with Greek yogurt and fresh berries for a protein-packed breakfast.
🍽️ Servings:
- Makes 6–8 squares (depending on how you slice it)
- Serves 4–6 as breakfast, 8 as a snack
🔢 Nutritional Info (Per Slice – Based on 8 slices):
- Calories: ~150 kcal
- Protein: 5g
- Carbs: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Fat: 5g
- Sugar: 6g (natural sweeteners)
- Vitamins: High in Vitamin A, K, and Manganese
✅ Health Benefits:
- Zucchini adds hydration, fiber, and vitamins with very few calories.
- Oats are great for heart health and long-lasting energy.
- Eggs or flax eggs add protein and essential fatty acids.
- Naturally sweetened with maple syrup or honey—no refined sugar needed.
❓ Q & A:
Q: Can I make it ahead for the week?
A: Absolutely! It keeps well in the fridge and is great for busy mornings.
Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Yes—use flax eggs and a plant-based milk.
Q: Can I use steel-cut oats?
A: No, they won’t cook through properly. Stick to rolled or quick oats.
Q: Is it okay to add fruit?
A: Definitely! Add ½ cup chopped apples, mashed banana, or blueberries for extra sweetness and moisture.