French Toast Oatmeal Bake: A Wholesome and Protein-Packed Breakfast
If you’re on the lookout for a breakfast recipe that blends the comfort of French toast with the goodness of healthy ingredients, then this French Toast Oatmeal Bake is the perfect dish for you. This easy-to-make, nutritious recipe combines the flavors of multigrain bread, oats, and the sweet touch of maple syrup, offering a delightful and satisfying way to start your day. With a base of ripe bananas, almond milk, peanut butter, and wholesome oats, this baked breakfast is not only delicious but also high in protein and suitable for vegetarians.
The combination of familiar flavors, like the creaminess of peanut butter, the warmth of cinnamon, and the sweetness of maple syrup, makes this dish a wholesome indulgence. The use of multigrain whole wheat bread and oats ensures that each bite is packed with fiber, while flaxseed powder, sultanas, walnuts, and coconut sugar add a hint of texture and richness. So, whether you’re preparing a filling breakfast for yourself or serving it as a delightful treat for your loved ones, this French Toast Oatmeal Bake is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ripe Bananas | 1, mashed with a fork |
| Almond Milk (Badam Milk) | 1/2 cup, unsweetened |
| Peanut Butter | 2 tablespoons, or any other flavored cream preferred |
| Maple Syrup | 2 teaspoons |
| Cinnamon Powder (Dalchini) | 1 teaspoon + extra for sprinkling on top |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Whole Wheat Brown Bread | 2 slices, multigrain, cubed |
| Instant Oats (Oatmeal) | 1/2 cup |
| Flax Seed Powder (Flax Meal) | 1 teaspoon |
| Sultanas | 15, chopped |
| Walnuts | 6, chopped |
| Coconut Sugar | 1 teaspoon, to sprinkle on top (optional) |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250–300 kcal (varies based on portion size)
- Protein: 8–10g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fats: 12–15g
- Fiber: 5–7g
Preparation & Cooking Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Ramekins
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease individual oven-proof dishes or ramekins with a light coating of oil or non-stick spray. This recipe works best with 3 medium-sized ramekins for even baking.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe banana using a fork until smooth. Add the almond milk, peanut butter, maple syrup, cinnamon powder, vanilla extract, and flaxseed powder. Mix everything together until it’s well-combined and creamy.
3. Add Dry Ingredients
Stir in the instant oats, walnuts, and sultanas to the wet mixture, ensuring that all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Fold in Bread Cubes
Gently fold in the cubed multigrain bread pieces. Be careful not to over-mix, as you want to maintain some texture and ensure the bread doesn’t disintegrate. The goal is for the bread to soak up the liquid without losing its form completely.
5. Transfer to Ramekins & Sprinkle with Cinnamon
Spoon the French toast oatmeal batter into the greased ramekins. Sprinkle cinnamon powder and coconut sugar on top of each ramekin for added flavor and a slight crunch.
6. Bake the French Toast Oatmeal
Place the ramekins in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the tops are golden and crispy, with a nice crust forming around the edges.
7. Serve & Enjoy
Once baked, allow the French Toast Oatmeal to cool slightly before serving. You can enjoy it on its own or top it with additional fruits like banana slices or a drizzle of non-dairy cream for a rich touch. This dish also pairs wonderfully with a refreshing Cold Coffee Smoothie for a more energizing breakfast or a perfect after-school snack for kids.
Allergen Information
- Contains: Peanuts, Tree Nuts (Walnuts), and Gluten (from whole wheat bread).
- May Contain Traces of: Dairy, depending on the choice of peanut butter and almond milk.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Vegan: Can be made vegan by using dairy-free options (ensure peanut butter is vegan and use plant-based milk).
- Gluten-Free: Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free bread and oats.
- High-Protein: Yes, thanks to the combination of peanut butter, oats, flaxseed, and walnuts.
- Low Sugar: The recipe can be customized to be lower in sugar by adjusting or eliminating the maple syrup and coconut sugar.
Tips for the Best French Toast Oatmeal Bake
- Customize with Toppings: Feel free to top your bake with fresh fruit like berries, sliced bananas, or a sprinkle of seeds for extra nutrition.
- Vegan Friendly: If you’re vegan, replace peanut butter with almond or cashew butter and ensure that both the milk and the cream are non-dairy.
- Use Different Nuts: While walnuts add a delightful crunch, other nuts like almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts can offer different textures and flavors.
- Make It Ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the batter the night before and bake it in the morning for an easy breakfast.
Conclusion
The French Toast Oatmeal Bake is a great way to start the day with a nutritious, filling, and satisfying breakfast. Combining the rich flavors of peanut butter, maple syrup, and cinnamon with the heartiness of oats and multigrain bread, it makes for a delightful yet wholesome meal. Whether you’re feeding a family or just looking for an easy, protein-packed breakfast, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Try it today and enjoy a morning filled with energy and flavor!
