There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of baked apples wafting through your kitchen on a crisp autumn morning. Whether you’re looking for a warm breakfast or a satisfying dessert, vegan baked apples with oatmeal is a perfect choice! This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of apples with hearty, cinnamon-spiced oatmeal for a wholesome dish that’s not only delicious but also nourishing.
Packed with fiber, vitamins, and healthy carbs, these baked apples are a great way to start your day or finish off a meal. Plus, this vegan-friendly dish is a hit with everyone, no matter their dietary preferences. Now, let’s dive into this simple, delectable recipe that requires just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time.
Why Vegan Baked Apples with Oatmeal?
If you’re wondering why this particular recipe is worth trying, here’s why:
- Simplicity: These baked apples only take about 5 minutes of active prep time and then the oven does the rest of the work. Perfect for busy mornings!
- Nutrient-Dense: Packed with fiber from the apples and oats, and free from refined sugars, this recipe fuels your body with wholesome ingredients.
- Versatile: While great as a cozy breakfast, this dish can double as a dessert, especially when paired with a scoop of vegan ice cream.
- Vegan-Friendly: No animal products, but tons of flavor!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these vegan baked apples with oatmeal, you’ll need just a few basic ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
- 4 large apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work best)
- 1 cup rolled oats (use gluten-free oats if needed)
- 2 tbsp maple syrup (or agave syrup for sweetness)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- 2 tbsp chopped walnuts (optional for added crunch)
- 2 tbsp raisins or cranberries (optional)
- 1 tbsp coconut oil (melted)
- ½ cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
How to Make Vegan Baked Apples with Oatmeal
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, you can prepare your apples and filling.
Step 2: Core the Apples
Wash and core your apples, removing the center seeds and creating a hollow space for the oatmeal filling. Be sure to leave about a half-inch at the bottom of each apple to prevent the filling from falling out. If you don’t have an apple corer, a small paring knife works just fine.
Step 3: Prepare the Oatmeal Filling
In a bowl, combine the rolled oats, cinnamon, nutmeg, walnuts (if using), raisins, and a pinch of salt. Drizzle the melted coconut oil over the mixture and stir until everything is well-coated. Add the maple syrup and vanilla extract for sweetness, and slowly pour in the almond milk until the mixture is moist but not too wet.
Step 4: Stuff the Apples
Using a spoon, fill each apple with the oatmeal mixture, pressing it down lightly as you go. Be generous with the filling, letting it mound a bit on top. As the apples bake, the filling will settle down inside.
Step 5: Bake the Apples
Place the stuffed apples in a baking dish, ensuring they are standing upright. Add a little extra almond milk to the bottom of the dish to keep the apples moist during baking. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the apples are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the apples are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. For a little extra indulgence, drizzle more maple syrup on top or serve with a dollop of coconut yogurt or vegan ice cream.
Nutritional Benefits of Vegan Baked Apples with Oatmeal
This recipe isn’t just tasty—it’s packed with nutrients that your body will thank you for.
- Apples are high in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps you feel full longer. They are also a great source of Vitamin C and various antioxidants.
- Oats provide slow-releasing energy thanks to their complex carbs. They also contain beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber known for improving cholesterol levels and heart health.
- Coconut oil offers healthy fats, including medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can boost energy levels and aid in metabolism.
- Walnuts and raisins (if using) add a nice crunch and provide a dose of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants.
Together, these ingredients make this dish a powerhouse of nutrition that can support your health while satisfying your sweet tooth.
Tips for Customizing Your Baked Apples
- Sweetener Swap: If you prefer a different sweetener, feel free to use agave syrup or coconut sugar in place of maple syrup.
- Add Protein: For extra protein, mix in some chia seeds or hemp hearts into the oatmeal filling.
- Spice it Up: If you love warming spices, add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice to the oatmeal mix for a richer flavor profile.
- Top It Off: Add a dollop of vegan whipped cream or drizzle with almond butter for an extra layer of richness and texture.
Why This Recipe Works for Everyone
One of the best things about these vegan baked apples with oatmeal is that they’re incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving them as a hearty breakfast or a light dessert, they fit seamlessly into various meal plans. And since they’re vegan, they make a fantastic treat for those following a plant-based diet, as well as anyone looking to cut down on processed sugars and dairy.
Moreover, baking apples intensifies their natural sweetness, meaning you need less added sugar, making this a healthier option without compromising on taste.
Frequently Asked QuestionsHow do I store leftover baked apples? You can store leftover baked apples in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the microwave or oven when you’re ready to enjoy them.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes! Just ensure that you’re using gluten-free rolled oats to make this recipe gluten-free.
Can I use a different kind of apple? Yes, you can use any variety of apples you like, but firmer apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp tend to hold up better during baking.
What can I use instead of coconut oil? You can substitute coconut oil with melted vegan butter or another neutral oil like avocado oil.
Are there other filling options? Yes, you can add nuts, seeds, or even dairy-free chocolate chips to the oatmeal filling to customize it to your liking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prep the apples and filling in advance, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Conclusion
There’s nothing better than a dish that’s both delicious and nutritious, and these vegan baked apples with oatmeal deliver just that! Whether you’re a breakfast enthusiast or a dessert lover, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who craves comforting, plant-based food. With its warm spices and hearty filling, these baked apples offer a perfect way to start or end your day on a sweet note!