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Prepare the base: In a bowl, combine 1 cup of oatmeal with ½ cup of warm milk and let it soak for 10 minutes.
Cook the apples: Melt the butter in a frying pan, add the chopped apples, and fry until they are tender. Add vanilla extract for flavor.
Mix the oatmeal batter: In a mixing bowl, beat 2 eggs, then stir in the nuts, avocado oil, soaked oatmeal, and oat flakes.
Prepare the cottage cheese layer: In a separate bowl, mix the cottage cheese with 1 egg, sweetener, and coconut flour until smooth.
Assemble the dish: Grease a baking dish with oil. Pour in the oatmeal mixture as the base, then layer the cottage cheese mixture on top.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F) and bake for 30 minutes until golden and set.
Serve: Let the baked oatmeal cool slightly before cutting. Serve warm or cold.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey.
Add a handful of fresh berries or sliced bananas on top for extra flavor.
For a crunchier texture, sprinkle toasted nuts or seeds on top before serving.
Cooking Tips
Make sure to let the oatmeal soak in warm milk for 10 minutes to soften it up.
For a dairy-free option, substitute cottage cheese with plant-based cream cheese and use almond or soy milk.
If you prefer a sweeter dish, add extra sweetener or sprinkle a little cinnamon over the top.
Nutritional Benefits
High in Protein: Cottage cheese and eggs provide a good source of protein, helping you stay full for longer.
Rich in Fiber: Oats and apples are packed with dietary fiber, which supports healthy digestion.
Low in Added Sugars: The natural sweetness from the apples and your choice of sweetener make this dish a healthier option than traditional baked goods.
Healthy Fats: The nuts and avocado oil provide heart-healthy fats.
Dietary Information
Vegetarian: This recipe contains dairy and eggs but is free from meat.
Gluten-Free: If using certified gluten-free oats, this dish is suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the cottage cheese and butter with plant-based alternatives.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, makes 6 servings)
Calories: 280
Protein: 12 g
Carbohydrates: 32 g
Fiber: 6 g
Fats: 12 g
Sugars: 8 g
Storage Tips
Refrigeration: Store the baked oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: You can freeze individual portions by wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for 10 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s easy to make and takes less than an hour from start to finish.
The combination of apples, oats, and cottage cheese makes it a healthy and balanced meal.
Versatile and customizable – you can swap ingredients based on your preferences.
Perfect for meal prep – make a batch at the start of the week for quick breakfasts or snacks.
Conclusion
This Baked Oatmeal with Apples and Cottage Cheese is a deliciously healthy dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s quick to prepare, loaded with nutrients, and can be served warm or cold. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a light dessert, it’s a versatile recipe that fits various dietary needs. Be sure to try it out and enjoy a wholesome meal that’s as comforting as it is nutritious!
10 Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant oats instead of regular oatmeal?
Yes, but the texture may be softer. You may want to reduce the soaking time to avoid it becoming too mushy.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the cottage cheese with a dairy-free alternative, like vegan cream cheese, and use plant-based milk.
Can I add different fruits?
Yes, pears, bananas, or berries are great alternatives to apples.
What can I use instead of coconut flour?
You can use almond flour, oat flour, or even more oats if coconut flour is unavailable.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can make this baked oatmeal in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer for future meals.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Definitely! It’s a great, nutritious option for kids and can easily be made sweeter by adding more fruit or sweeteners.
Can I omit the sweetener?
Yes, if you prefer a more naturally sweet flavor from the apples and fruit, you can skip the added sweetener.
What can I use instead of eggs?
You can use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) as a vegan substitute.
Can I use rolled oats instead of oat flakes?
Yes, rolled oats will work fine. Just make sure to adjust the liquid or cooking time if needed.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or in the oven for 10 minutes at 150°C (300°F)