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### Instructions
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the perfect temperature for baking the oatmeal and making it golden brown.
2. **Prepare the Baking Dish:** Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent the oatmeal from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
3. **Combine the Dry Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, salt, and baking powder. Mix them together to ensure an even distribution of spices and leavening agents.
4. **Add the Wet Ingredients:** To the dry ingredients, add the milk, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract. If you’re using an egg, beat it lightly and add it to the mixture. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. **Layer the Fruits and Nuts:** In the prepared baking dish, layer the chopped apples, sliced bananas, and walnuts at the bottom. Pour the oatmeal mixture evenly over the fruits and nuts, making sure they are all evenly distributed.
6. **Bake:** Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oatmeal has set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean when it’s ready.
7. **Serve and Enjoy:** Once the oatmeal is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. You can enjoy it as is or top it with additional nuts, a dollop of yogurt, or a drizzle of maple syrup for extra flavor.
### Customizing Your Baked Oatmeal
One of the best things about baked oatmeal is its versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your preferences or use what you have on hand. Here are a few ideas:
– **Add other fruits:** If you’re not a fan of apples or bananas, feel free to substitute with berries, pears, or even peaches.
– **Make it dairy-free:** Use almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk as a substitute for regular milk.
– **Spices:** Add extra spices like nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom for a warm, aromatic flavor.
– **Sweeteners:** Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup or honey, or use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit.
### Health Benefits of Baked Oatmeal with Apple, Banana, and Walnuts
– **Rich in Fiber:** Oats are a great source of soluble fiber, which helps regulate blood sugar and supports a healthy gut.
– **Heart-Healthy Fats:** Walnuts are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health.
– **Natural Sweetness:** The fruits provide a natural sweetness, reducing the need for added sugar.
– **Protein Boost:** If you add an egg to the recipe, you’ll increase the protein content, which helps in muscle repair and keeps you fuller for longer.
### Final Thoughts
Baked Oatmeal with Apple, Banana, and Walnuts is a warm, wholesome breakfast that’s easy to make and packed with nutrition. It’s perfect for busy mornings when you want something hearty but don’t have time for a complicated meal. Whether you’re looking for a way to use up ripe bananas or just craving a filling, healthy breakfast, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Feel free to experiment with different fruits, nuts, and spices to make it your own! Enjoy it fresh from the oven, or store leftovers in the fridge for an easy grab-and-go breakfast throughout the week. Happy baking!
