Baked Oatmeal with Carrots and Fruits

Baked Oatmeal with Carrots and Fruits 🥣🥕🍎

This Baked Oatmeal with Carrots and Fruits is a wholesome, naturally sweet, and nutrient-packed breakfast or snack that’s perfect for meal prep or serving a crowd. Packed with fiber-rich rolled oats, grated carrots, juicy dried apricots, and your choice of milk, this dish is hearty, healthy, and completely customizable. It’s like eating dessert for breakfast—but without the guilt!

Let’s dive into how to make this delicious, comforting baked oatmeal step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Naturally Sweet : Sweetened by the natural sugars in carrots and dried fruits—no added sugar needed.
2. Nutrient-Packed : Loaded with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants from oats, carrots, and fruits.
3. Customizable : Add nuts, seeds, spices, or fresh fruits to suit your taste.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly : Perfect for meal prep and can be stored for several days.
5. Versatile : Enjoy it warm as a breakfast bowl or cold as a grab-and-go snack.

Ingredients

(Serves 6–8)

• 2 cups (200 g) rolled oats
• 1 cup (240 ml) milk (almond, oat, dairy, etc. )
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 medium carrot , finely grated
• 9 dried apricots , rinsed with hot water and chopped
• 1 large egg (optional, for binding )
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor )
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for warmth )
• Optional Add-Ins : raisins, chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or almonds), chia seeds, flaxseeds, or shredded coconut

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
2. Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Grate the carrot using a box grater or food processor. Set aside.
2. Rinse the dried apricots with hot water to soften them slightly, then chop them into small pieces.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats , baking powder , and cinnamon (if using ). Stir well to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Add the grated carrot , chopped apricots , milk , egg (if using ), and vanilla extract (if using ) to the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is well combined and the mixture is evenly moistened.
   • Tip : If you want a softer texture, let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes to allow the oats to absorb some of the liquid.

Step 5: Bake

1. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
2. Bake for 25–30 minutes , or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

1. Let the baked oatmeal cool slightly before slicing into squares or scooping into bowls.
2. Serve warm or at room temperature. Top with additional milk, yogurt, fresh fruit, or a drizzle of nut butter if desired.

Tips for Success

1. Add Spices : Stir in 1 teaspoon cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth and flavor.
2. Boost Nutrition : Add chia seeds, flaxseeds, or hemp seeds for an omega-3 boost.
3. Adjust Moisture : If the mixture seems too dry, add a splash more milk. If too wet, sprinkle in a bit more oats.
4. Storage : Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4–5 days . Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
5. Freeze for Later : Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Perfect Pairings

This Baked Oatmeal with Carrots and Fruits pairs beautifully with:

• Yogurt or Nut Butter : Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or almond butter for added creaminess.
• Fresh Fruit : Serve with sliced bananas, berries, or pomegranate seeds for extra freshness.
• Herbal Tea or Coffee : Pair with a warm cup of herbal tea or coffee for a cozy breakfast experience.
• Sparkling Beverages : Pair with sparkling water or infused water for a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

(Based on 8 servings)

• Calories : ~180 kcal
• Protein : ~5g
• Carbohydrates : ~30g
• Fat : ~4g
• Fiber : ~4g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Oatmeal with Carrots and Fruits is a wholesome, nutritious dish that’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a naturally sweet, fiber-rich breakfast or snack. Whether you’re making it for meal prep, a family breakfast, or a quick snack, it’s a versatile recipe that’s both satisfying and healthy. The combination of grated carrots, chewy dried apricots, and hearty oats creates a dish that’s rich in flavor and texture.

The best part? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the ingredients, adjust the spices, or pair it with different toppings to make it your own. So grab your oats, grate those carrots, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.