Name: Oatmeal, Apple, and Carrot Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Rolled Oats (Chopped in a blender); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1 cup Milk (Of your choice); 1 Carrot (Grated); 9 Dried Apricots (Rinsed with hot water and chopped); 4 tablespoons Raisins (Rinsed with hot water); 1 Apple (Grated)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for a wholesome breakfast that checks all the boxes—hearty, naturally sweet, and satisfyingly cozy—let me introduce you to my Oatmeal, Apple, and Carrot Bake. Imagine all the best parts of a warm bowl of oatmeal, packed with juicy apples, earthy carrots, and pops of dried fruit, then baked together into a golden slice of comfort. I first stumbled upon this idea when searching for a way to use up odds and ends in my pantry. My family was hooked on the very first bite.

Why is this bake so special? It comes together in just minutes, uses everyday ingredients, and is a total crowd-pleaser—kids and grown-ups love it alike. It’s perfect for busy mornings or meal prepping healthier snacks. If you love my Banana Oat Bake, you’ll adore this twist that incorporates fruits and veggies. Ready to bake something easy and memorable? Let’s dive in!

What is Oatmeal, Apple, and Carrot Bake?

Ever wondered what would happen if your favorite bowl of oatmeal decided to take a walk on the wild side and become a bake? Well, here’s your answer! The Oatmeal, Apple, and Carrot Bake isn’t an ancient family recipe handed down through generations—unless you count my kids demanding seconds as a new tradition. Some say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, but after making this, you’ll win over everyone’s hearts (and bellies) in your home. Why not try it yourself and start your own tasty tradition?

Why You’ll Love This

First up, the unmistakable highlight: this bake is bursting with flavor, thanks to juicy apples, sweet carrots, and chewy dried fruits, creating a combination that’s both vibrant and satisfying. It’s also a total money-saver—no more spending on pricey store-bought breakfast bars or packaged snacks. Making it at home gives you control over quality and cost, while skipping all those unnecessary additives.

What truly sets this apart is the mix-ins—the juicy apple keeps it moist, the golden carrots add color and subtle sweetness, and the apricots and raisins pop with flavor. Pair it with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of yogurt for breakfast heaven. If you’re a fan of my Baked Blueberry Oatmeal recipe, you’ll love how this dish sneaks in extra veggies for even more nutrition and flavor. Give it a go and see why it’s a staple in our home!

How to Make Oatmeal, Apple, and Carrot Bake

Quick Overview

This recipe couldn’t be simpler! With just a handful of pantry staples and about 10 minutes of prep, you’ll have a hearty breakfast or snack, freshly baked and ready to fuel your day. The oats soak up all the fruity goodness, creating a sliceable treat that’s tender inside and just a little crisp on top—no fuss, no fancy techniques required. From start to finish, expect this recipe to take about 40 minutes, with most of that being hands-off baking time.

Ingredients

2 cups (200 g) rolled oats, chopped in a blender
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup (240 ml) milk of your choice
1 carrot, grated
9 dried apricots, rinsed with hot water and chopped
4 tablespoons raisins, rinsed with hot water
1 apple, grated

Step-by-Step

Prep the Oats
Start by pulsing your rolled oats in a blender just a few times, so they break down but don’t become flour. This helps the bake hold together without losing that classic oat texture.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine your chopped oats with the baking powder.
Add the Fruit and Veggies
Grate your carrot and apple. Stir both into the dry mixture, followed by the chopped apricots and rinsed raisins. This ensures the fruit and veg are evenly distributed and won’t clump together.
Combine Wet Ingredients
Pour the milk over the mixture and stir everything together until well combined. The batter should be thick and scoopable.
Bake
Pour the mixture into a greased or parchment-lined 8-inch baking dish. Smooth out the top so it’s even. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
Cool, Slice, and Serve
Allow the bake to cool for at least 10 minutes. Slice into squares or bars and serve warm, or pack away for on-the-go snacking.

What to Serve Oatmeal, Apple, and Carrot Bake With

This bake is a versatile dish that shines just as bright solo or paired with tasty sides. Try topping it with a spoonful of Greek yogurt for protein, or drizzle it with maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness. On busy mornings, pair it with a latte or a glass of cold milk for a complete meal. Feeling brunchy? Serve it alongside scrambled eggs or fresh fruit salad for a breakfast spread that covers all the bases.

Top Tips for Perfecting Oatmeal, Apple, and Carrot Bake

For the perfect bake every time, keep these tips in mind:

If you’re out of apricots, swap them for dried cranberries or chopped dates.
To save time in the morning, grate the carrot and apple the night before and store them tightly covered in the fridge.
Don’t over-blend the oats—they should look like coarse crumbs, not powder.
For a richer flavor, use a mix of whole milk and a splash of vanilla extract.
Want a nutty crunch? Stir in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans.
Watch the baking time—overbaking can dry it out, so check for doneness around the 30-minute mark.

Common mistakes to avoid: adding too much milk (which makes it mushy), not chopping dried fruit enough (leading to chewy chunks), or skipping the step of rinsing dried fruit, which helps soften their texture in the bake.

Storing and Reheating Tips

This bake stores beautifully! Let your leftovers cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to two months. To reheat, simply warm slices in the microwave for 30–60 seconds or pop them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through. For frozen bars, let them thaw overnight in the fridge for a grab-and-go breakfast any day of the week.

FAQs

Can I make this bake vegan?
Absolutely! Just use your favorite plant-based milk (like almond or oat), and the rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan.

Can I add nuts or seeds?
Definitely—chopped walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds are great additions for extra crunch and flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
It is if you use certified gluten-free oats. Always double-check if you have dietary restrictions.

How can I make it sweeter?
Add a tablespoon or two of maple syrup or honey to the batter, or serve with a sweet topping after baking.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the bake the night before, keep it covered in the fridge, and bake it fresh in the morning.

Conclusion

Oatmeal, Apple, and Carrot Bake is a feel-good, fuss-free recipe that brings together health, convenience, and comfort in every bite. With wholesome oats, sweet fruit, and sneaked-in veggies, it’s an easy win for breakfast, snacks, or meal prepping. Whether you serve it hot out of the oven or enjoy it chilled during the week, this bake is bound to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to explore my other oatmeal bakes on the blog and share your own creative mix-ins. Happy baking!