# A Comforting Baked Dish with Oats and Fruit: The Perfect Combination
When it comes to comforting and nutritious meals, a baked dish featuring oats and fruit stands out as a delicious and wholesome option. This recipe not only brings together the heartiness of oats and the natural sweetness of fruit but also offers flexibility, allowing you to use whatever fruits you have on hand. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert, this dish is sure to delight family and friends. Let’s explore the joys of this baked creation and share a simple yet satisfying recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
## The Appeal of Oats and Fruit
Oats are a fantastic ingredient to incorporate into your meals. They are rich in fiber, which aids digestion, helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, and keeps you feeling full for longer. Combined with fruits, which provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, this dish is not only delicious but also nourishing.
### Benefits of Oats and Fruit
1. **Nutritious**: Oats provide essential nutrients, while fruits add a burst of flavor and health benefits.
2. **Versatile**: You can customize the recipe based on seasonal fruits or whatever you have on hand.
3. **Easy to Prepare**: Simply mix the ingredients, pour them into a baking dish, and let the oven do the work!
## Recipe for Baked Oats with Fruit
### Ingredients
– **2 cups rolled oats**
– **2 ripe bananas**, mashed (or substitute with applesauce)
– **1 ½ cups milk** (dairy or plant-based)
– **1/3 cup honey or maple syrup** (adjust based on sweetness preference)
– **1 teaspoon vanilla extract**
– **1 teaspoon baking powder**
– **1 teaspoon cinnamon**
– **1/2 teaspoon salt**
– **2 cups mixed fruit** (e.g., berries, diced apples, sliced peaches, or whatever you prefer)
– **Optional toppings**: nuts, seeds, or a sprinkle of brown sugar for added sweetness.
For Complete Cooking STEPS Please Head On Over To Next Page Or Open button (>) and don’t forget to SHARE with your Facebook friends
### Instructions
#### Step 1: Preheat the Oven
1. **Preheat** your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish (about 8×8 inches or similar) with cooking spray or butter.
#### Step 2: Prepare the Oat Mixture
1. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until evenly mixed.
2. **Combine Wet Ingredients**: In another bowl, mix the mashed bananas, milk, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until well blended.
3. **Combine Both Mixtures**: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Gently fold in the mixed fruit.
#### Step 3: Bake the Dish
1. **Pour into Baking Dish**: Transfer the oat mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
2. **Bake**: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oats have set.
#### Step 4: Cool and Serve
1. **Cool Down**: Allow the baked dish to cool for a few minutes before slicing it into squares.
2. **Serve Warm**: Enjoy it warm on its own, or serve with a dollop of yogurt, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a sprinkle of nuts for added crunch.
## Tips for Success
– **Customize Your Fruit**: Feel free to experiment with different fruits based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Berries, apples, pears, and peaches all work beautifully.
– **Add Some Crunch**: For added texture, consider mixing in nuts or seeds, or sprinkling them on top before baking.
– **Make Ahead**: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick breakfast or snack.
## Conclusion
This baked dish with oats and fruit is a delightful way to enjoy a wholesome meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dessert, it’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit your taste and the seasons.
Try this easy recipe at home, and you’ll likely find it becoming a regular part of your meal rotation. With its comforting flavors and simple preparation, this baked oats dish is sure to become a beloved favorite for everyone at your table. Enjoy the warmth and deliciousness of this wholesome treat!
