Many of us grew up hearing, "An apple a day keeps the doctor away." But in the world of just better.®, we believe in taking that timeless wisdom a step further. By pairing the natural goodness of apples and berries with our prebiotic fiber and hearty old-fashioned oats, we're championing a new mantra: "Elevate your plate, and keep cholesterol at bay." 😉
Continuing with our heart-healthy theme and drawing inspiration from our recent blog post, "Cholesterol Awareness: The Fiber Factor," we're excited to share a deliciously warm and filling breakfast treat loaded with seasonal fall flavors: Apple Berry Baked Oats.
Oats are an absolute breakfast staple (we eat them for any meal!). Rich in beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber known to help lower cholesterol, it's an obvious choice for those looking to enhance heart health. However, it's essential to remember that diversity is the key to optimal health. That's where our just better.® fiber comes in! With its unparalleled simplicity, this prebiotic addition not only boosts the overall fiber content but complements the beta-glucan in oats, ensuring a wholesome and gut-friendly start to your day.More on Beta-glucan:
Beta-glucan is a type of soluble fiber found in oats and barley grains. They are highly beneficial to our heart and gut health!
Beta-glucan is known to:
▪ Lower LDL (bad) cholesterol,
▪ Help control blood sugars,
▪ And promote good gut bacteria by giving them food to thrive. (Fiber!)
Avenanthramides are powerful antioxidants found in oats. Oats contain more than 20 unique polyphenols and Avenanthramides!
Avenanthramides are known to:
▪ Lower blood pressure
▪ Reduce the risk of colon cancer; it's all about prevention!
JBB Tip: All oats are whole grain, but some are more nutrient-dense. Go for Steel Cut or Old Fashioned Rolled Oats. Avoid instant oatmeal—and especially flavored and artificially sweetened oatmeal packets. Pre-packaged flavored oatmeal contains a ton of sugar and preservatives that are harmful to our gut!
Baked Apple Berry Oats Recipe
Serves 6
Ingredients:
2 Cups old-fashioned or steel-cut oats
2 Teaspoons ground cinnamon
¾ Teaspoon sea salt
¼ Teaspoon cinnamon
¼ Teaspoon ground nutmeg
6 Tablespoons of just better.® prebiotic fiber
1 Teaspoon baking powder
1 ¾ to 2 Cups of milk of choice (almond, coconut, oat, etc.)
2 Large eggs or egg alternative
3 Tablespoons melted unsalted butter or coconut oil
2 Teaspoons vanilla extract
1 ½ Cups (Divided) organic mixed berries - fresh or frozen - your choice!
1 to 2 Organic apples - chopped
Optional Toppings: Chopped Walnuts or Pecans, Greek yogurt
Directions:
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Prepare a 9-inch square dish with non-stick cooking spray.
Mix together the oats, cinnamon, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and just better.® prebiotic fiber. Stir thoroughly.
Mix the milk, egg, butter/coconut oil, and vanilla in a separate bowl.
Mix the liquid and dry ingredients together, ensuring there are no dry oats. (You may add a little extra milk at this step if needed.)
Set aside a half cup of berries for topping.
Gently fold the remaining berries and chopped apples into the oat mixture.
Distribute the berries you set aside earlier over the top.
Place in the oven and bake for about 35 to 45 minutes. If you're using frozen berries, extend this time slightly until the top attains a golden hue.
Once baked, remove the oatmeal and let it stand for a few moments.
Enjoy warm or cooled. Store in the refrigerator in a covered container for up to 5 days.
Now, if your taste buds are tingling, it's time to put this recipe to the test. We'd love to see how your Baked Apple Berry Oats turn out!
Give it a whirl, savor every heart-healthy bite, and don’t forget to tag us on social media with your creations. Let's make breakfast not just good but just better.®!
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