Healthy Apple & Oat Breakfast Bake

Prep time: 15 minutes | Bake time: 35–40 minutes | Yield: 6–8 portions

1 cup (100 g) rolled oats: Provides the structure and fiber for the bake.
3 medium apples, grated: Adds moisture and natural sweetness.
1 banana, mashed: Acts as a natural binder and sweetener.
1/2 cup (120 ml) water: To help the oats hydrate and soften.
2 large eggs: For protein and to help the bake set.
3.5 oz (100 g) dried cranberries: Rinsed in hot water to plump them up.
3.5 oz (100 g) raisins: Rinsed in hot water for extra sweetness.
1/2 cup (50 g) favorite nuts: Chopped (walnuts, pecans, or almonds work best).
1 tsp baking powder: To give the bake a slight lift.
1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional): For a warm, comforting aroma.

Prep the Dried Fruit: Place your raisins and dried cranberries in a small bowl. Pour hot water over them and let them soak for 5 minutes. Drain them thoroughly before using. This step ensures they are soft and juicy rather than chewy.
Soak the Oats: In a large mixing bowl, combine the 1 cup of rolled oats with 1/2 cup of water. Let this sit for about 5–10 minutes so the oats can absorb the liquid.

Mash the Banana: In a small bowl, mash the banana until smooth.
Grate the Apples: Grate the 3 medium apples (you can leave the skin on for extra fiber). Add the grated apples and the mashed banana to the oat mixture.

Whisk Eggs: In a separate bowl, lightly beat the 2 eggs. Stir them into the oat and fruit mixture.
Add Flavor and Rise: Fold in the baking powder and the ground cinnamon (if using).
Mix in Textures: Gently stir in the soaked cranberries, raisins, and the chopped nuts. Ensure everything is evenly distributed.

Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 9×9 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Transfer: Pour the mixture into the dish and smooth out the top with a spatula.
Bake: Place in the oven for 35–40 minutes. The top should look golden brown, and the center should feel firm to the touch.

Let the bake cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows it to “set” so the slices come out cleanly.
Serve warm as is, or with a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra protein.

Texture Variation: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can pulse the rolled oats in a blender for 5 seconds before soaking them to create a “quick oat” consistency.
Storage: This is perfect for meal prep! Slice it into squares and keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can reheat them in the microwave for 30 seconds.