Introduction:
German Apple Oatmeal Bake is a comforting, hearty dish that combines the rich flavors of tender baked apples with wholesome oats. This delicious breakfast or dessert is inspired by traditional German apple cakes but incorporates the nutritional benefits of oats, making it a perfect way to start your day or indulge as a dessert. With the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, this dish offers a perfect balance of sweetness and texture, with the apples becoming soft and caramelized while the oats create a chewy base.
Ingredients:
2 large apples (preferably tart apples like Granny Smith or Braeburn), peeled, cored, and chopped
2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1/4 cup brown sugar (or maple syrup for a healthier alternative)
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond or oat milk)
2 large eggs
1/4 cup melted butter (or coconut oil for a dairy-free version)
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional, like walnuts or pecans)
1/4 cup raisins (optional)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for extra brightness)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similar-sized baking pan with butter or non-stick spray.
Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and chop the apples into small chunks. In a small bowl, toss them with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice (optional) and set aside.
Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Mix wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Add the melted butter (or coconut oil) to the wet mixture and whisk until combined.
Combine all ingredients: Stir the wet ingredients into the dry oat mixture until well combined. Fold in the chopped apples, raisins (if using), and nuts (if using).
Pour into baking dish: Transfer the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oatmeal is set. You can check if it’s done by inserting a knife or toothpick—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Cool and serve: Let the oatmeal bake cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm on its own or with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt.
Description: This German Apple Oatmeal Bake offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The oats provide a chewy, hearty base, while the baked apples become soft and sweet with a touch of caramelization. The cinnamon and nutmeg create a warm, aromatic scent, adding to the comforting experience. This dish can be enjoyed as a healthy breakfast option, a dessert, or even as a snack, and it pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea.
Tips:
Apple selection: Choose firm apples that hold their shape during baking, like Granny Smith, Braeburn, or Honeycrisp, to avoid mushy apples in the final dish.
Make it vegan: Swap the eggs with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) and use plant-based milk and coconut oil.
Add more flavor: For extra depth, try adding a pinch of ground ginger or a teaspoon of orange zest to the batter.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It also reheats well in the microwave or oven.
Make it gluten-free: Ensure the oats are certified gluten-free and substitute regular butter for a dairy-free alternative.
Variations:
Cranberry Apple Oatmeal Bake: Add fresh or dried cranberries along with the apples for a tart contrast.
Caramelized Apple: Sauté the apples in a pan with a little butter and brown sugar before adding them to the bake for an extra layer of sweetness.
Coconut Apple Oatmeal: Stir in shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
Apple & Pear Combo: Mix apples with pears for a unique fruit flavor combination.
Corrections: Ensure to use rolled oats rather than quick oats to maintain the proper texture. Quick oats can become mushy and overly soft when baked, while rolled oats create a better consistency in this recipe.
Enjoy! Enjoy your warm, comforting German Apple Oatmeal Bake! Whether you’re starting your day with a healthy breakfast or indulging in a cozy dessert, this dish will surely hit the spot.