Ingredients
Dry ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger (optional for a spiced flavor)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for crunch)
- ¼ cup raisins or unsweetened dried cranberries (optional, for natural sweetness)
Wet ingredients:
- 1 large apple, grated (with peel)
- 1 cup finely grated carrot (about 2 medium carrots)
- 1 large ripe banana, mashed (for natural sweetness)
- 1 ¾ cups unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds (optional, for added fiber)
- 1 egg (or flax egg for vegan)
Optional toppings:
- Sliced almonds, coconut flakes, or extra fruit slices for topping
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
Grate the apple and carrot using a box grater or food processor. No need to peel the apple — the peel adds nutrients and texture. Mash the banana until smooth.
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, salt, nuts, and dried fruit (if using). Stir to evenly distribute.
In another bowl, whisk together the almond milk, vanilla extract, flaxseed, egg (or flax egg), mashed banana, grated apple, and carrot until well combined.
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently until everything is well incorporated and the oats are soaked. The batter will be thick and chunky.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly and smooth out the top. Add any desired toppings like sliced almonds or coconut flakes.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean.
Let the bake cool for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows it to firm up and makes cutting easier.
Notes
- If you prefer a softer, spoonable bake, add an extra ¼ cup of almond milk.
- For a firmer, sliceable bake, bake until the top is crisp and set — about 40 minutes.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze slices for up to 3 months.