Looking for a healthy and delicious way to start your day? Oat baking recipes are a great way to pack in the nutrients and fiber to keep you feeling full and satisfied. Oats are a great source of complex carbohydrates, which will give you the energy you need to power through your day. In this article, we’ll be sharing some of our favorite healthy oat baking recipes that are easy to make and sure to please everyone in your household.
The Benefits of Using Oats in Baking
Oats offer a variety of health benefits that make them an excellent ingredient to include in your baking recipe. Here are some reasons why you should start incorporating oats in your baking:
Oats add fiber to baked goods
Fiber is essential for maintaining good digestion and preventing constipation. Oats are an excellent source of fiber, which can help keep you feeling full for a longer period. When you include oats in your baking recipe, you add to the fiber content of the final product resulting in a healthier treat for your body. Fiber is vital for normalizing bowel movements, reducing cholesterol levels, and promoting a healthy weight.
Oats are nutrient-dense
Oats are considered one of the most nutrient-dense grains and pack a lot of essential vitamins and minerals, such as zinc, magnesium and iron. By using oats as a baking ingredient, you can significantly increase the nutrient content of your baked goods. These minerals are beneficial to maintain healthy bodily functions and metabolism. Zinc, for instance, helps to boost the immune system and protects against infections. Magnesium aids with muscle and nerve function, while iron is essential for the production of red blood cells.
Oats can help regulate blood sugar levels
Oats have a low glycemic index, which means that they provide a slow and steady release of glucose into the bloodstream, thereby helping to regulate blood sugar levels. This makes oats a good option for people with type 2 diabetes or those who are at risk of developing the condition. They also assist the body to break down carbohydrates, making it easy to digest and control blood sugar levels.
Oats add texture to baked goods
Oats add a delightful chewiness to baked goods that adds texture and flavor. They are particularly useful in recipes that need an added crunch, like cookies or granola. By adding texture, oats help to create a more satisfying and delicious treat. In addition to the texture and flavor, it also adds bulk to the dish making you feel fuller quicker as the oats absorb moisture creating a filling snack.
Common Oat Baking Recipes
Oats are a versatile and inexpensive ingredient that can be used in a variety of healthy baking recipes. Here are a few classic options to get started:
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Oatmeal raisin cookies are a timeless classic and a great way to satisfy a sweet tooth without going overboard on sugar. To make these cookies healthier, look for recipes that use whole wheat flour, coconut oil, and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. And of course, don’t forget the oats! Rolled oats give oatmeal raisin cookies their signature texture and nutty flavor.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup coconut oil
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup raisins
- Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the oats, flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat together the coconut oil and honey/maple syrup until smooth. Add in the egg and vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until a thick dough forms. Fold in the raisins.
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop the dough onto the baking sheet and flatten slightly with your fingers. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Granola Bars
Granola bars are a convenient and portable snack that can be made ahead of time and packed in a lunchbox or enjoyed on-the-go. They’re also a great way to use up any leftover nuts, seeds, or dried fruit you might have on hand. Look for recipes that use natural sweeteners and healthy fats like almond butter or coconut oil.
- Ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g. almonds, pecans, walnuts)
- 1/2 cup seeds (e.g. pumpkin, sunflower)
- 1/2 cup dried fruit (e.g. raisins, cranberries, apricots)
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
- Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the oats, chopped nuts, seeds, and dried fruit.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond butter, honey, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
- Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing into bars.
- If desired, melt the chocolate chips in the microwave or on the stovetop and drizzle over the bars.
Oatmeal Muffins
Muffins are a great breakfast or snack option that can be made ahead of time and enjoyed throughout the week. Oatmeal muffins are particularly filling and satisfying, thanks to the fiber and protein in oats. Look for recipes that use mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce as a natural sweetener and egg substitute.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup flour (can use whole wheat or all-purpose)
- 1/2 cup mashed banana or unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup milk of choice
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a large bowl, combine the oats, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mashed banana/applesauce, Greek yogurt, milk, honey/maple syrup, and egg until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before removing from the muffin tin and letting cool completely on a wire rack.
Healthier Alternatives for Oat Baking Recipes
Oat baking recipes are a great way to enjoy delicious treats like muffins, cookies, and cakes while getting a healthy dose of fiber and nutrients. However, many traditional baking recipes are loaded with processed ingredients and refined sugars, making them less than ideal for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. Luckily, there are plenty of healthier alternatives you can use to create delicious oat-based treats that are both wholesome and delicious.
1. Almond Flour
One of the easiest swaps you can make when it comes to oat baking recipes is to switch out the flour for almond flour. Almond flour is a protein-rich alternative to traditional all-purpose flour that is both gluten-free and low in carbs. It has a mild flavor and a nutty aroma that pairs perfectly with the earthy taste of oats.
- For muffins and quick bread, try using equal parts oat flour and almond flour.
- For cakes and cupcakes, use a blend of almond flour and coconut flour along with rolled oats.
- For cookies, use a combination of almond flour, rolled oats, and oat flour.
2. Unsweetened Applesauce
Using unsweetened applesauce in place of traditional baking ingredients can help reduce the amount of sugar and fat in your oat-based treats. Applesauce is a low-calorie, natural sweetener that can add moisture, texture, and flavor to your recipes.
- For muffins and quick bread, replace half of the butter or oil with the same amount of unsweetened applesauce.
- For cakes and cupcakes, reduce the amount of sugar called for and replace some of the fat with unsweetened applesauce.
- For cookies, use a combination of unsweetened applesauce and almond butter in place of butter or oil.
3. Honey
Honey is a natural sweetener that adds a rich, complex flavor to your oat-based treats. It is also packed with antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties that can boost your immune system, making it a healthy addition to your diet.
Here are some tips for incorporating honey into your oat baking recipes:
| Recipe Type | How to Use Honey | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cakes and muffins | Replace granulated sugar with honey in a 1:1 ratio. | You may need to reduce the amount of liquid in the recipe to account for the added moisture. |
| Cookies | Use honey as a sweetener, and reduce the amount of fat called for in the recipe. | Keep a watchful eye on the baking time and temperature since honey browns faster than sugar. |
| Granola and bars | Use honey as a binder instead of eggs, and reduce the amount of sugar and oil called for. | For an extra flavor boost, use honey infused with spices or herbs. |
With these healthier alternatives for oat baking recipes, you can enjoy delicious treats without compromising your health goals. Try experimenting with different combinations of ingredients until you find the perfect recipe that satisfies your cravings and keeps you feeling good!
Low Sugar Oat Baking Recipes
Healthy eating doesn’t have to mean giving up on tasty treats. Low-sugar oat-based baked goods are a great way to indulge your sweet tooth without compromising on nutrition. Here are some recipes that use natural sweeteners and nutrient-rich oatmeal:
Oatmeal Banana Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins pack a nutritious punch. They are made with oat flour instead of wheat flour, which gives them a delicious nutty flavor. Ripe bananas naturally sweeten the muffins, and a touch of honey gives them an extra boost of flavor. Here’s what you need:
- 2 cups oat flour
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a muffin tin. In a medium bowl, mix together the oat flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk the mashed bananas, honey, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract together. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until you have a smooth batter. Fill each muffin tin two-thirds of the way. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool for a few minutes before serving.
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
If you’re craving a sweet but healthy snack, these oatmeal raisin cookies are perfect. They use maple syrup instead of refined sugar, which gives them a subtle but delicious flavor. The oatmeal adds a chewiness to the cookies and makes them extra filling. Here’s what you need:
- 1 cup oat flour
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, mix together the oat flour, oats, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and egg together. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until you have a smooth batter. Fold in the raisins. Drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the baking sheet and flatten them slightly. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Cool for a few minutes before serving.
Oatmeal Apple Crisp
This warm and comforting dessert is perfect for the cooler months. It uses apples as its natural sweetener, along with a touch of vanilla extract for flavor. The oatmeal crumble adds a crunchy texture to the dish, which makes it even more satisfying. Here’s what you need:
- 4 cups peeled and diced apples
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1/2 cup oat flour
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease an 8-inch square baking dish. In a large bowl, mix together the diced apples, oats, oat flour, maple syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Pour the mixture into the baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are soft. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Gluten-Free Oat Baking Recipes
For those with gluten sensitivities, finding delicious baked goods can be a challenge. However, with gluten-free oats and alternative flours at your disposal, you can still enjoy some of your favorite treats without sacrificing taste or texture. In this article, we’ll explore some healthy oat baking recipes that are gluten-free and sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
1. Gluten-Free Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
Who doesn’t love a classic oatmeal raisin cookie? This recipe uses gluten-free oats, almond flour, and coconut sugar for a healthy twist on an old favorite. To make these cookies, you’ll need:
- 2 cups gluten-free oats
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup coconut oil
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
Cream the coconut oil and coconut sugar together, then add in the egg and vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, mix together the gluten-free oats, almond flour, baking soda, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until well combined. Fold in the raisins. Chill the dough for 30 minutes, then roll into balls and press down slightly with a fork. Bake at 350°F for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
2. Gluten-Free Banana Oat Muffins
These muffins are a great on-the-go breakfast or snack option. They’re loaded with fiber and protein from the oats and almond flour, and the bananas provide natural sweetness. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups gluten-free oats
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar
- 2 ripe bananas
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup almond milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
Mash the bananas in a bowl and whisk in the eggs, almond milk, and vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, combine the gluten-free oats, almond flour, coconut sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Spoon the batter into a muffin tin lined with paper liners and bake at 350°F for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
3. Gluten-Free Blueberry Oat Bars
These oat bars are packed with antioxidants from the blueberries and the gluten-free oats and almond flour help to keep you full and satisfied. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups gluten-free oats
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar
- 1/2 cup coconut oil
- 1/2 cup blueberries
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
Melt the coconut oil in a saucepan and mix in the vanilla extract and coconut sugar. In a separate bowl, mix together the gluten-free oats, almond flour, baking soda, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until well combined. Fold in the blueberries. Press the mixture into a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
4. Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Oat Cookies
Who says you can’t have chocolate chips in a healthy cookie? This recipe uses gluten-free oats, almond flour, and coconut sugar to keep these cookies on the healthier side. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups gluten-free oats
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar
- 1/2 cup coconut oil
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Cream the coconut oil and coconut sugar together, then add in the egg and vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, mix together the gluten-free oats, almond flour, baking soda, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until well combined. Fold in the chocolate chips. Chill the dough for 30 minutes, then roll into balls and press down slightly with a fork. Bake at 350°F for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
5. Gluten-Free Oat Banana Bread
If you’re looking for a healthier version of banana bread, this recipe is for you. Using gluten-free oats and almond flour instead of traditional flour makes for a denser, more filling bread that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups gluten-free oats
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar
- 3 ripe bananas
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup almond milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
Mash the bananas in a bowl and whisk in the eggs, almond milk, and vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, combine the gluten-free oats, almond flour, coconut sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake at 350°F for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
Oat Baking Recipe FAQs
Looking for tips on how to store your oat baked goods or how to adjust recipes? Check out these frequently asked questions.
1. How do I store oat baked goods?
It’s best to store your oat baked goods in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help them last longer and stay fresh. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Make sure to label and date the container before putting it in the freezer.
2. Can I use old fashioned oats instead of quick oats?
Yes, you can use old fashioned oats instead of quick oats in most oat baking recipes. The texture may be slightly different, but it won’t affect the taste or overall outcome of the recipe.
3. How can I make oat baked goods less dense?
If your oat baked goods are turning out too dense, try using a combination of flours such as almond flour or coconut flour in place of some of the oats. You can also add a bit more leavening agent like baking powder or baking soda to lighten the texture.
4. Can I substitute applesauce for oil in oat baking recipes?
Yes, you can substitute applesauce for oil in oat baking recipes. This will make the recipe lower in fat and calories. Use an equal amount of applesauce as the recipe calls for oil. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different.
5. How do I adjust oat baking recipes for high altitude?
If you live at high altitude, you may need to adjust your oat baking recipes. Reduce the leavening agents by about 25% and increase the liquid in the recipe by about 10-15%. This will help your baked goods rise properly and prevent them from being too dry.
6. What are some healthy oat baking recipes?
Oats are a great source of fiber and protein, making them a healthy addition to your diet. Here are some healthy oat baking recipes to try:
- Healthy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
- Healthy Apple Cinnamon Oat Muffins
- Healthy Banana Oat Pancakes
- Healthy Blueberry Oat Bars
- Healthy Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies
These recipes use wholesome ingredients like oats, whole wheat flour, and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
Happy Baking for a Healthier You!
We hope you enjoyed these tasty and nutritious oat-based recipes that are perfect for your healthy lifestyle. Remember, healthy food doesn’t have to be bland or boring, there are plenty of delicious options out there that can satisfy both your taste buds and your body’s needs. So why not give oat baking a try and see how easy it can be to eat well? Thank you for reading and be sure to check back soon for more inspirational food content!