There’s nothing like starting your day with a warm, cozy bowl of Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan). This hearty and healthy vegan baked oatmeal is not only delicious but also easy to make. Perfect for meal prep, it can be enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack throughout the week. With no dairy or eggs, this recipe is suitable for various dietary preferences. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite fruits and nuts!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: The steps are straightforward, making this recipe perfect for busy mornings.
- Customizable Flavor: Add any fruit or nuts you have on hand for a unique twist every time.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch in advance to enjoy warm breakfasts throughout the week.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with oats and fruits, this dish provides lasting energy.
- Vegan & Gluten-Free: Enjoy without worrying about dietary restrictions.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth, gather the necessary tools before you begin. Having everything ready will help you follow the recipe more efficiently.
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 sturdy baking pan ensures even cooking and helps achieve the perfect texture for the oatmeal.
- Mixing Bowls: Using separate bowls for wet and dry ingredients prevents clumping and ensures everything mixes uniformly.
Ingredients
For the Oatmeal Base
- 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
For the Wet Mixture
- 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
Fruit Add-ins
- 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. While it’s heating up, grease or spray a 9×9 or 11×7 baking pan with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare Flax Eggs
In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed and 6 tablespoons of water. Set this mixture aside; it will create your flax eggs that act as a binding agent in this vegan recipe.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine all the dry ingredients:
Rolled oats
Chopped pecans or walnuts
Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Baking powder
Salt
Stir well to ensure even distribution of spices.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium mixing bowl, whisk together all wet ingredients:
Unsweetened applesauce (or mashed banana)
Non-dairy mylk
Flax egg mixture
Pure maple syrup
Vanilla extract
Mix until fully combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredient mixture. Stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
Step 6: Fold in Fruits and Transfer Mixture
Fold in the blueberries or any chosen fruit of your preference. Transfer the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking pan. Optionally top with sliced banana or additional fruit.
Step 7: Bake in Oven
Bake at 350°F for 35–45 minutes. Check when the center appears almost set; if you prefer a drier texture, bake until completely set.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let the baked oatmeal cool for about 5 minutes before serving. It goes wonderfully with yogurt, milk, or extra maple syrup on top! To store leftovers, cover them well; they can be refrigerated for up to one week or frozen for up to two to three weeks.
How to Serve Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan)
Serving your Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce is an enjoyable experience that can be tailored to suit your taste. Here are some delicious ways to enhance your dish.
Top with Fresh Fruits
- Blueberries: Add a burst of flavor and antioxidants.
- Sliced Bananas: A classic topping that pairs wonderfully.
- Chopped Apples: For a crunchy texture and sweet taste.
Drizzle with Sweeteners
- Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that complements the oatmeal’s flavors.
- Agave Nectar: Another great option for those looking for a lighter syrup.
Add Creamy Elements
- Vegan Yogurt: Provides creaminess and tang, perfect for topping.
- Nut Butter: Almond or peanut butter adds richness and healthy fats.
Serve Warm or Cold
- Warm: Enjoy it fresh out of the oven for a cozy breakfast.
- Cold: Refrigerate leftovers for a quick, chilled snack.
Pair with Beverages
- Herbal Tea: A soothing drink that goes well with baked oatmeal.
- Non-Dairy Milk: Pour over the oatmeal for extra creaminess.
How to Perfect Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan)
Perfecting your Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce can elevate your breakfast game. Here are some tips to ensure you get it just right.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for the freshest oats and fruits to enhance flavor and nutrition.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the maple syrup amount based on your preference for sweetness.
- Experiment with Spices: Adding ginger or cardamom can give your oatmeal a unique twist.
- Check Consistency: Ensure the mixture is well combined but not overly wet before baking.
Best Side Dishes for Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan)
Pairing side dishes with your Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce can create a balanced meal. Here are some great side options.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and brightness.
- Nutty Granola: Adds crunch and extra fiber, making it a satisfying addition.
- Smoothie Bowl: A refreshing smoothie bowl complements the warmth of baked oatmeal.
- Toasted Whole Grain Bread: Serve with avocado spread for a hearty side.
- Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy dessert offers more texture and nutrition alongside your oatmeal.
- Coconut Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt adds creaminess and probiotics, enhancing the meal’s health benefits.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Starting your journey with Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan) can be delightful, but avoid these common missteps to ensure delicious results.
- Skipping the flax eggs: Not preparing flax eggs can lead to a dry texture. Mix ground flaxseed with water and let it sit until it thickens.
- Overmixing the batter: Stirring too much can make the oatmeal dense. Gently combine wet and dry ingredients just until mixed.
- Ignoring baking time: Each oven varies, so keep an eye on your baked oatmeal. Test for doneness by checking if the center is set.
- Using sweetened applesauce: Sweetened applesauce can make your dish overly sweet. Opt for unsweetened to control sugar levels.
- Not greasing the pan: A sticky mess is never fun! Always grease or spray your baking pan to ensure easy removal of baked oatmeal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover baked oatmeal in an airtight container.
- It can last in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Freezing Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan)
- Cut baked oatmeal into portions before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags for best results; it can be frozen for 2-3 weeks.
Reheating Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan)
- Oven: Preheat to 350F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual servings in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of non-dairy milk in a pan over low heat, stirring until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Curious about Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan)? Here are some common questions and answers!
How do I customize Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan)?
You can add various fruits like apples or pears, nuts such as almonds or hazelnuts, and even spices like ginger for extra flavor.
Can I use rolled oats instead of quick oats?
Yes! Rolled oats work perfectly for this recipe and will give you that hearty texture you desire.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats, this Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan) is entirely gluten-free.
How can I make this recipe sweeter?
For added sweetness, include more maple syrup or mix in dried fruits like raisins or dates before baking.
Final Thoughts
This Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan) is not only nutritious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it based on what you have at home. It’s a fantastic meal prep option that brings warmth and comfort to your mornings. Give it a try and enjoy a cozy start to your day!
Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan)
Enjoy a warm bowl of Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan)! This easy recipe is perfect for meal prep and customization. Try it today!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
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
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 3/4 cups non-dairy milk
- 2 flax eggs (2 tablespoons ground flaxseed + 6 tablespoons water)
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 small sliced banana (for topping, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a baking pan.
- Prepare flax eggs by mixing ground flaxseed with water; set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix rolled oats, nuts, cinnamon, baking powder, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together applesauce, non-dairy milk, flax eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures gently; fold in fruit.
- Pour into the baking pan and bake for 35–45 minutes until set.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
