This Oatmeal and Apple Loaf is a perfect blend of healthy ingredients, offering a sweet yet guilt-free treat without any added sugar or flour. Packed with the natural sweetness of apples, bananas, and dried fruits, it provides a wholesome alternative to traditional baked goods. With a blend of rolled oats, dried blueberries, raisins, and a touch of cinnamon, this loaf is both comforting and nutritious. The best part? It’s gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions. This recipe is not only simple to make but also packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, ensuring you enjoy a delicious, healthy snack or breakfast option.
Ingredients
For the Oatmeal and Apple Loaf:
- 1 cup fine rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
- 3 medium apples
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 banana, mashed
- 3.5 ounces (100g) dried blueberries
- 3.5 ounces (100g) raisins
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 cup nuts, chopped (e.g., walnuts, almonds, or pecans)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 160
- Protein: 4 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Dietary Fiber: 4 g
- Sugars: 15 g (natural sugars from fruits)
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
- Sodium: 50 mg
Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1: Soak the Dried Fruits
Place the dried blueberries and raisins into separate bowls. Cover each with hot water and let them soak for 20 minutes. This step plumps up the dried fruits, making them softer and more flavorful. After soaking, drain the fruits and gently pat them dry with kitchen paper to remove any excess moisture.
Step 2: Prepare the Oats
Grind 1 cup of fine rolled oats in a blender until they reach a flour-like consistency. This creates the base of the loaf and replaces traditional flour, making the recipe both gluten-free and high in fiber. Once ground, transfer the oats to a large mixing bowl and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Apples
Wash the apples, remove the cores and stems, and cut them into large cubes. Blend the apple cubes with 1/2 cup of water until smooth. This apple puree will provide natural sweetness and moisture to the loaf. Pour the apple mixture over the ground oats in the mixing bowl and mix well to combine.
Step 4: Prepare the Banana
Peel and mash 1 banana with a fork until smooth. The banana serves as a natural binder, helping the loaf hold together while adding extra sweetness. Add the mashed banana to the oat and apple mixture and stir until well combined.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Add the soaked and drained raisins and blueberries to the oat mixture. Stir well to evenly distribute the dried fruits throughout the batter. Next, crack 2 eggs into the mixture, add 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder (if using). The eggs help provide structure and lift to the loaf, while the cinnamon adds a warm, aromatic flavor. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure a smooth batter.
Step 6: Prepare the Baking Tin
Line a rectangular loaf tin (approximately 9 x 5 inches) with baking paper, allowing some overhang on the sides for easy removal. This prevents the loaf from sticking and helps with cleanup. Pour the mixture into the lined tin and use a spatula to spread it evenly, smoothing the top.
Step 7: Add the Nuts
Chop 1/2 cup of your chosen nuts (such as walnuts, almonds, or pecans) into small pieces. Sprinkle the chopped nuts over the top of the batter, pressing them down slightly so they adhere to the loaf. This adds a delightful crunch to the top and enhances the flavor.
Step 8: Bake
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Once the oven is heated, place the loaf tin in the center of the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the loaf is browning too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil towards the end of the baking time.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the tin for about 10 minutes. This allows the loaf to set slightly, making it easier to handle. Once it has cooled enough, lift the loaf out of the tin using the overhang from the baking paper. Place the loaf on a wire rack to cool completely. Slice the loaf into 8-10 servings and serve with a dollop of nonfat yogurt and fresh fruit for an extra touch of freshness.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve Warm or at Room Temperature: These oatmeal and apple loaf slices are delicious whether served warm or at room temperature. You can top them with a dollop of nonfat yogurt or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness, if desired.
- Storage: Store any leftover loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The loaf also freezes well for up to a month. Simply thaw it at room temperature before serving.
- Customization: Feel free to experiment with different dried fruits, nuts, or spices to suit your taste preferences. Chopped dates, apricots, or even a dash of nutmeg or cardamom can add new flavor dimensions to this loaf.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits in this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute the dried blueberries and raisins with other dried fruits like cranberries, chopped dates, or dried cherries. Fresh fruits like chopped pears or berries can also be used, though they may affect the moisture content slightly.
Can I make this loaf without eggs?
Yes, you can use an egg substitute. Try flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg) or applesauce as a binder instead of eggs.
How do I make this loaf dairy-free?
To make this loaf dairy-free, simply swap out the milk with any plant-based milk like almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk.
How can I make this recipe sweeter?
If you prefer a sweeter loaf, you can add stevia, maple syrup, or a little honey to the batter. However, this recipe relies on the natural sweetness from the apples, bananas, and dried fruits, which makes it naturally sweet without the need for added sugar.
Can I make this loaf gluten-free?
Yes! Simply ensure that the rolled oats you use are certified gluten-free, as oats are often cross-contaminated with gluten during processing.
Conclusion
This Easy and Healthy Oatmeal and Apple Loaf is an excellent option for anyone looking for a low-sugar, flour-free baked good. It’s a versatile recipe that you can customize with your favorite dried fruits and nuts, making it a great choice for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. The combination of oats, apples, and bananas provides natural sweetness, while the nuts add a crunchy texture and extra protein. Plus, with no refined sugar or flour, it’s a healthier alternative that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. This loaf is not only delicious but also gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.