German-Inspired Baked Oatmeal with Cranberries and Apples

### Instructions

**Step 1: Preheat the Oven**
Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)** and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with melted coconut oil or butter.

**Step 2: Prepare the Apples and Cranberries**
Peel, core, and dice the apples into small pieces. If you’re using fresh cranberries, you can leave them whole, but if you’re using frozen cranberries, you may want to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in the dish.

**Step 3: Mix the Oats and Wet Ingredients**
In a large mixing bowl, combine the **rolled oats**, **milk**, **applesauce**, **egg**, **maple syrup**, **vanilla extract**, **ground cinnamon**, **ground ginger**, **nutmeg**, and **salt**. Stir until well combined. The oats will soak up some of the liquid as they rest.

**Step 4: Add the Apples and Cranberries**
Fold in the diced apples and cranberries, mixing everything together. The apples will soften while baking, and the cranberries will burst, adding a lovely tart flavor to the dish.

**Step 5: Bake the Oatmeal**
Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for **35-40 minutes**, or until the oatmeal is set, lightly golden on top, and the apples are tender.

**Step 6: Serve and Enjoy**
Once your German-inspired baked oatmeal is done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. If you like, top each serving with **chopped nuts**, a **drizzle of honey**, or a spoonful of **yogurt** for an extra touch of flavor and texture.

### Why This Baked Oatmeal is So Special

This German-inspired oatmeal incorporates classic ingredients that are popular in German desserts, such as apples and spices. The combination of **apples** and **cranberries** offers a balanced mix of sweet and tart, while the cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger add a warm, comforting flavor that’s perfect for fall and winter mornings.

The use of **rolled oats** makes this dish both hearty and filling, providing a good source of fiber and whole grains. The addition of applesauce adds moisture without making the dish overly sweet, and the egg helps bind everything together for a cohesive texture.

Baked oatmeal is a fantastic way to enjoy oats in a new and exciting way. Instead of the usual bowl of porridge, this recipe offers a warm, custardy oatmeal bake that’s both easy to make and satisfyingly rich.

### Tips for Customization

– **Sweetness**: If you prefer a sweeter oatmeal, feel free to add extra maple syrup or honey to taste. You could also stir in a bit of brown sugar or coconut sugar for more caramelized sweetness.
– **Fruit Variations**: While apples and cranberries are the star of this recipe, you can swap in other fruits like **pears**, **blueberries**, or **cherries**. Just be mindful of the fruit’s moisture content and adjust accordingly.
– **Add-ins**: For extra texture and flavor, consider adding **chopped nuts** (walnuts, pecans, or almonds), **raisins**, or even a handful of **seeds** like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
– **Vegan Options**: To make this dish vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use a non-dairy milk such as almond or oat milk.

### The Benefits of Baked Oatmeal

Oats are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. They are a great source of **fiber**, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. The combination of oats, fruit, and spices provides essential nutrients like **vitamins**, **minerals**, and **antioxidants**. Cranberries, in particular, are known for their high levels of vitamin C and antioxidant properties, making this baked oatmeal both a nourishing and energizing start to your day.

### Conclusion: A Perfectly Cozy Breakfast

This **German-Inspired Baked Oatmeal with Cranberries and Apples** is more than just a breakfast; it’s a warm, comforting dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family. It’s easy to prepare, deliciously spiced, and packed with nutrients that will keep you feeling full and satisfied. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weekday breakfast or as part of a leisurely weekend brunch, this oatmeal is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.

So, grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and indulge in this cozy, heartwarming dish that’s perfect for the cooler months. It’s sure to bring a little taste of Germany to your table!