Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan)

There’s nothing like starting your day with a warm, cozy bowl of Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan). This hearty and healthy dish is not only tasty and easy to make but also perfect for meal prep. You can customize it with whatever fruit and nuts you have on hand! Made without dairy or eggs, it’s a delightful choice for breakfast any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Start: Packed with oats and fruits, this baked oatmeal offers a nutritious start to your day.
• Easy Meal Prep: Prepare a batch at the start of the week for quick breakfasts on busy mornings.
• Customizable Delight: Add your favorite fruits and nuts to make each serving unique.
• Satisfying Texture: The combination of oats and applesauce creates a creamy yet hearty texture that everyone will enjoy.
• Vegan-Friendly: A perfect option for those following plant-based diets without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×9 or 11×7 baking pan
• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Non-stick spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Pan: A quality pan ensures even baking, giving you that perfect golden top.
• Mixing Bowls: Having separate bowls allows for efficient mixing of dry and wet ingredients without cross-contamination.
• Whisk: Helps create a smooth mixture when combining wet ingredients, ensuring no lumps remain.

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Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• 3 cups rolled oats
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce (or mashed banana)
• 1 3/4 cups non-dairy mylk
• 2 flax eggs
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Fruits

• 1 cup blueberries (or other fruit like chopped apples, pears, strawberries)
• 1 small sliced banana (for topping – optional)

How to Make Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or spray your baking pan with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Flax Eggs

In a small bowl, whisk together:
1. 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed
2. 6 tablespoons of water

Set aside for about 5 minutes to thicken.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine all the dry ingredients:
– Rolled oats
– Chopped nuts
– Cinnamon
– Nutmeg
– Baking powder
– Salt

Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another medium bowl, whisk together all wet ingredients:
– Applesauce
– Non-dairy mylk
– Flax egg mixture
– Maple syrup
– Vanilla extract

Mix until combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; avoid over-mixing.

Step 6: Fold in the Fruits

Carefully fold in blueberries or your choice of fruit. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Top with sliced banana or additional fruit if desired.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about 35–45 minutes. Check at around 35 minutes; it should be set in the center but still slightly soft. For drier oatmeal, bake longer until fully set.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the baked oatmeal cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy it topped with extra yogurt, non-dairy milk, or maple syrup. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze them for up to two to three weeks.

Enjoy this wholesome baked oatmeal as an easy breakfast option that everyone will love!

How to Serve Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan)

Serving your Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan) can elevate the experience and enhance its flavors. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy it!

With Nut Butters

• Peanut butter – A spread of creamy peanut butter adds richness and protein.
• Almond butter – This nutty option pairs well, adding healthy fats and a unique flavor.

Topped with Fresh Fruit

• Sliced bananas – Fresh banana slices add sweetness and a lovely texture.
• Mixed berries – A medley of strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries brings a burst of freshness.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

• Pure maple syrup – A drizzle enhances the natural sweetness without overpowering it.
• Agave nectar – A lighter alternative that also adds sweetness.

Served with Dairy-Free Yogurt

• Coconut yogurt – Creamy and tangy, it complements the oatmeal’s texture perfectly.
• Almond yogurt – This nut-based option is light and flavorful, adding a lovely contrast.

How to Perfect Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan)

Perfecting your baked oatmeal ensures each serving is delicious and satisfying. Here are some tips to help you achieve that!

• Use fresh ingredients – Make sure your oats and fruits are fresh for the best taste.
• Experiment with spices – Adding more cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance flavor.
• Adjust sweetness – If you prefer a sweeter dish, feel free to increase the maple syrup slightly.
• Add nuts for crunch – Fold in more chopped nuts for added texture and nutrition.
• Try different fruit combinations – Mixing various fruits can create exciting new flavors each time!

Best Side Dishes for Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan)

Pairing side dishes can complement your Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan) nicely. Here’s a list of fantastic options to consider!

1. Chia Seed Pudding – Creamy and nutritious, this pudding can be made with almond milk and topped with fruit for extra flavor.
2. Smoothie Bowl – Blend your favorite fruits into a smoothie base topped with granola and seeds for added crunch.
3. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can provide a nice contrast to the warm oatmeal.
4. Avocado Toast – Creamy avocado on whole-grain bread adds healthy fats and makes for a filling side.
5. Coconut Macaroons – Chewy coconut treats offer a sweet bite that pairs well with oatmeal.
6. Sautéed Spinach – Lightly sautéed spinach adds a savory element that balances the sweet flavors of oatmeal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make simple mistakes when preparing Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan). Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong oats: Always use rolled oats instead of instant or steel-cut oats. Rolled oats ensure a creamy texture and even cooking.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined to keep the oatmeal fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense final product.
• Skipping the flax eggs: Flax eggs help bind the ingredients without using animal products. Don’t skip this step; prepare them ahead of time.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons for precise measurements. This ensures consistent results every time you bake.
• Neglecting to preheat the oven: Preheating your oven is essential for even baking. Make sure it reaches 350F before placing your dish inside.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store baked oatmeal in an airtight container for up to 1 week in the fridge.
• Allow it to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan)

• Freeze portions of baked oatmeal in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2-3 weeks.
• Label containers with dates to keep track of freshness.

Reheating Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan)

• Oven: Preheat to 350F, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of non-dairy mylk to a pan and reheat over low heat, stirring until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan).

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute blueberries with apples, pears, or strawberries based on your preference.

How do I make this gluten-free?

Ensure you use certified gluten-free rolled oats when preparing your Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan).

Can I prepare this oatmeal ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Bake it in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding nuts, seeds, or spices like ginger or cardamom to enhance the flavor profile of your baked oatmeal.

Final Thoughts

Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan) is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different fruits and nuts based on what you have available. It’s perfect for breakfast or as a healthy snack throughout the week. Give it a try and enjoy the cozy warmth it brings!