Baked oatmeal apple circles are a delightful fusion of wholesome ingredients, combining the natural sweetness of apples with the nutty goodness of oats and almonds. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, these easy-to-make circles are as nutritious as they are delicious. Their simple preparation ensures that anyone, even beginners, can whip up a batch of these healthy bites in no time.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup (90 g) oats
- 50 g almonds (about ½ cup)
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 apples, peeled and cut into chunks
- 50 ml water (about 3 tbsp)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract (or a pinch of vanillin)
- 1 tbsp avocado oil (or any neutral oil)
Optional Add-Ins:
- A pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for added warmth
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness (if desired)
Tools and Equipment
- Blender or food processor for grinding and blending
- Mixing bowl for combining ingredients
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup
- Measuring cups and spoons for precise measurements
- Wire rack for cooling
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Oat-Almond Mixture
Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). This ensures the oven is ready when the circles are shaped and placed on the tray.
Place 1 cup of oats and 50 g of almonds in a blender or food processor. Blend until the mixture reaches a coarse, flour-like consistency. Transfer this dry mixture to a mixing bowl.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Peel 2 apples and cut them into small chunks for easier blending. Add the apple chunks and 50 ml of water to the blender. Blend until smooth, creating a thick apple puree. This puree acts as a natural sweetener and binder for the recipe.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the apple puree to the oat-almond mixture in the bowl. Incorporate ½ tsp of vanilla extract and mix thoroughly. The batter should be thick and slightly sticky, holding together when pressed. If the batter feels too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time until the desired consistency is achieved.
Step 4: Shape the Circles
Lightly grease your hands with 1 tbsp of avocado oil or any neutral oil. Take small portions of the batter (about 2 tablespoons per circle) and shape them into circles, similar to the size of cookies. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving a small gap between each circle.
Step 5: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the edges of the circles turn golden brown and the texture is firm to the touch. Baking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them after 25 minutes to avoid over-browning.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Remove the baked oatmeal apple circles from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these oatmeal apple circles with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey for a protein-packed breakfast.
- Enjoy them with a hot cup of tea, coffee, or spiced cider for a cozy afternoon snack.
- Sprinkle some ground cinnamon or powdered sugar on top for a light dessert touch.
- For a festive twist, serve alongside a cranberry or berry compote.
Cooking Tips
- Enhance the Flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture to complement the apple’s natural sweetness.
- Adjust Thickness: Flatten the circles slightly before baking if you prefer a thinner, crisper texture.
- Use Different Nuts: Substitute almonds with walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts for varied flavors.
- Sweetness: If you prefer sweeter treats, mix in a tablespoon of honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar.
Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is packed with nutrients:
- Oats: Rich in fiber, oats help improve digestion and provide sustained energy.
- Almonds: A great source of healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E, almonds contribute to heart health.
- Apples: High in dietary fiber and antioxidants, apples support overall wellness and add natural sweetness.
Storage and Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store the circles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze the circles in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm the circles in a microwave for 20 seconds or in an oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5–7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use rolled oats instead of quick oats?
Yes, rolled oats work well in this recipe. They may require a little extra blending time to achieve the desired texture.
2. Are there substitutes for almonds?
Absolutely! You can use other nuts, such as walnuts, pecans, or cashews. For a nut-free version, try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
3. Can I make this recipe vegan?
This recipe is naturally vegan as written, using apples and water as the main binders.
4. How can I make this gluten-free?
Ensure your oats are certified gluten-free to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
5. Can I add other fruits to this recipe?
Yes! Try adding dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates for a flavor boost.
Conclusion
These Baked Oatmeal Apple Circles are a versatile, healthy treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Their delightful combination of oats, almonds, and apples provides a wholesome snack that’s easy to make and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a satisfying snack, or a light dessert, these circles are sure to become a favorite in your home. Give this recipe a try and savor the natural goodness in every bite!