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 delicious breakfast is not only easy to prepare but also versatile, allowing you to use whatever fruits and nuts you have on hand. Perfect for busy mornings or meal prep, this oatmeal is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, it’s dairy-free and egg-free, making it suitable for everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a hearty breakfast ready in no time.
• Customizable: Use any fruits or nuts you prefer; the options are endless!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with oats and fruit, this recipe is nutritious and satisfying.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy easy breakfasts all week long.
• Deliciously Vegan: Enjoy this wholesome dish without any animal products.

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Tools and Preparation

To make your Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan), you’ll need some essential tools for a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These help you keep dry and wet ingredients separate until you’re ready to combine them.
• Whisk: A whisk ensures that your wet ingredients are perfectly blended, especially when mixing the flax eggs.
• Baking pan: The right size pan ensures even baking for your oatmeal.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make the Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan):

• 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 (or mashed banana)
• 1 3/4 cups non-dairy mylk
• 2 flax eggs
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 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 a 9×9 or 11×7 baking pan with non-stick spray.

Step 2: Prepare Flax Eggs

In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed and 6 tablespoons of water. Set aside for about 5 minutes. This mixture will act as your vegan flax eggs.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine all dry ingredients:
Rolled oats
Chopped pecans or walnuts
Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Baking powder
Salt

Step 4: Whisk Wet Ingredients

In another medium mixing bowl, whisk together all wet ingredients:
Unsweetened applesauce (or mashed banana)
Non-dairy mylk
Flax egg mixture
Pure maple syrup
Vanilla extract

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredient mixture. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 6: Add Fruit

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

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 35–45 minutes. The center should appear almost set; adjust baking time according to your desired consistency.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow the baked oatmeal to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy it topped with yogurt, milk, or extra maple syrup! To store leftovers, cover and refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to two weeks.

How to Serve Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan)

Serving Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce is a delightful experience that can be tailored to your taste. With a few simple additions, you can elevate this dish and create a hearty breakfast or snack that everyone will love.

Toppings

• Fresh Fruits: Add sliced bananas, berries, or apples for natural sweetness and extra nutrients.
• Nut Butter: A dollop of almond or peanut butter enhances creaminess and adds protein.
• Yogurt: Serve with dairy-free yogurt for a creamy texture and probiotics.

Sweeteners

• Maple Syrup: Drizzle some pure maple syrup on top for added sweetness.
• Agave Nectar: Use agave nectar as a lighter alternative for those who prefer it.

Spices

• Cinnamon Sprinkle: For an aromatic touch, sprinkle additional cinnamon on top before serving.
• Nutmeg Dusting: A light dusting of nutmeg adds warmth and flavor complexity.

How to Perfect Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan)

To achieve the best results with your Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce, follow these helpful tips that ensure your oatmeal turns out perfectly every time.

• Boldly Preheat Your Oven: Always preheat the oven to 350F before baking to ensure even cooking.
• Boldly Choose Your Oats: Use rolled oats for the best texture; steel-cut oats will not provide the same result.
• Boldly Measure Ingredients Accurately: Precision in measuring ingredients leads to consistent results; use measuring cups and spoons.
• Boldly Mix Wet and Dry Separately: Mixing wet and dry ingredients separately helps avoid clumps and ensures even distribution of flavors.

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

Pairing your Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Chia Seed Pudding: A creamy, nutrient-packed side that adds texture and fiber. Prepare it the night before for convenience.
2. Smoothie Bowl: Blend your favorite fruits into a smoothie bowl topped with seeds and nuts for added crunch.
3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits complements the baked oatmeal beautifully.
4. Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado on whole-grain bread provides healthy fats that balance the meal.
5. Nutty Granola Bars: Homemade bars made from oats and nuts offer a perfect grab-and-go option alongside oatmeal.
6. Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or peppermint, pairs well for a cozy breakfast experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Starting your day with Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan) can be delightful, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the flax eggs: Not preparing flax eggs can result in a less cohesive texture. Make sure to mix ground flaxseed with water and let it sit until it thickens.
• Overbaking: Leaving your baked oatmeal in the oven too long can make it dry. Keep an eye on it and remove it when the center is almost set.
• Using sweetened applesauce: Opting for sweetened applesauce can lead to overly sweet oatmeal. Use unsweetened applesauce to control the sweetness better.
• Neglecting to grease the pan: Forgetting to grease the baking pan can cause sticking. Always use a non-stick spray or oil to ensure easy serving.
• Not mixing wet and dry ingredients well: Failing to combine these thoroughly can lead to uneven flavors. Stir well until everything is just combined.
• Ignoring add-ins: Skipping fruits or nuts means missing out on flavor and texture. Customize your baked oatmeal with your favorite add-ins for a more enjoyable meal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your leftover Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan) in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan)

• You can freeze portions of baked oatmeal for longer storage.
• Wrap individual servings tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It will remain good for 2-3 weeks in the freezer.

Reheating Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a saucepan, adding a splash of non-dairy milk if needed, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I substitute ingredients in Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan)?

Absolutely! You can swap applesauce for mashed banana or any other fruit puree. Feel free to change the nuts or add different fruits as desired.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To ensure your Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan) is gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats. Check that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I add protein powder?

Yes! You can add plant-based protein powder to increase the protein content of your baked oatmeal without altering its flavor significantly.

How do I know when my baked oatmeal is done?

Your Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan) is ready when the center is almost set and no longer jiggles. A toothpick should come out mostly clean when inserted.

Final Thoughts

Wholesome Baked Oatmeal with Applesauce (Vegan) is a comforting start to your day that’s not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding various fruits or nuts based on what you have available. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a warm, satisfying breakfast!