Sugar-Free Oatmeal Apple Carrot Bake

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This Sugar-Free Oatmeal Apple Carrot Bake is a nutritious and hearty dish that showcases the natural sweetness of apples and carrots, enhanced with the chewiness of dried apricots and raisins. Made with rolled oats, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also gluten-free (if using certified gluten-free oats) and perfect for anyone avoiding sugar and flour. Enjoy it warm for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert!

Why This Recipe Works

  1. Natural Sweetness: The dried apricots and grated apple provide natural sweetness without the need for added sugar.
  2. Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, this bake is a great way to fuel your day.
  3. Versatile: You can customize this bake by adding nuts, seeds, or spices like cinnamon for extra flavor.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups (200 g) rolled oats, blended into a coarse flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup (240 ml) milk of your choice (dairy or non-dairy)
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 9 dried apricots, rinsed with hot water and chopped
  • 4 tablespoons raisins, rinsed with hot water
  • 1 apple, grated

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish (about 8×8 inches or similar) with a little oil or butter.

Step 2: Prepare the Oat Mixture

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the blended rolled oats and baking powder. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the baking powder.
  2. Stir in the milk, mixing until well combined.

Step 3: Add Fruits and Vegetables

  1. Add the grated carrot, grated apple, chopped dried apricots, and raisins to the oat mixture. Stir until all the ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 4: Bake

  1. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the mixture is set.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

  1. Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.
  2. Serve warm, either on its own or topped with a dollop of yogurt or nut butter, if desired.

Tips + Tricks for Recipe Success

  • Add Spices: Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor. About 1 teaspoon of cinnamon can be a lovely addition.
  • Nutty Variation: For added crunch and nutrition, mix in a handful of chopped nuts or seeds (like walnuts or chia seeds) before baking.
  • Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or enjoy them cold.

Conclusion

This Sugar-Free Oatmeal Apple Carrot Bake is a wholesome, nutritious option that aligns perfectly with your dietary preferences. With its delightful blend of flavors and textures, it’s sure to be a hit with anyone looking for a healthy meal or snack. Enjoy the goodness of oats, fruits, and vegetables all in one delicious dish!

Feel free to adjust any ingredients to suit your taste!

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