Introduction
These delightful Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups are the perfect blend of comfort and nourishment. With the sweetness of ripe bananas and the warm spices of cinnamon, they are a cozy treat for breakfast or a snack. Plus, they’re easy to make and can be enjoyed any time of the day!
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 ½ cups milk (or dairy-free alternative)
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 apple, peeled and diced
- ½ cup raisins (optional)
- ¼ cup maple syrup (or honey)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 12 oatmeal cups
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin or line it with muffin liners.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix together the milk, mashed bananas, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Gently fold in the diced apple and raisins (if using).
- Scoop the mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before removing from the tin.
Notes or Tips
- For added sweetness, consider increasing the amount of maple syrup or honey.
- You can substitute other fruits like blueberries or peaches for a different flavor.
- These oatmeal cups can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week in the refrigerator.
- Reheat in the microwave for a quick and easy breakfast option.
Cooking Techniques
To achieve the best texture, mixing the wet and dry ingredients should be done gently to avoid overmixing, which could lead to dense oatmeal cups.
FAQ
- Can I freeze the oatmeal cups? Yes, they freeze well! Just make sure to wrap them tightly.
- What can I use instead of bananas? Unsweetened applesauce can be a great substitute.
- Are these oatmeal cups gluten-free? Use certified gluten-free oats to make them gluten-free.
- How can I increase the protein content? You can add a scoop of protein powder to the mix or substitute some of the oats for Greek yogurt.
Conclusion
These Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups are not only delicious but also a fantastic way to fuel your day. They’re versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for on-the-go mornings or afternoon snacking. Enjoy the wholesome goodness with every bite!