Kickstart your morning with a hearty and nutritious millet and apple breakfast bake. This warm and comforting dish combines the nutty flavor of millet with sweet apples, warm spices, and a hint of maple syrup. Perfect for a weekend breakfast or a make-ahead weekday option, this bake is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s get started!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup millet, rinsed
• 2 cups water or milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
• 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
• 2 tablespoons butter or coconut oil, melted
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or non-dairy yogurt (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similar-sized ovenproof dish with butter or coconut oil.
2. Cook the Millet:
   • In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or milk to a boil.
   • Add the rinsed millet and a pinch of salt.
   • Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the millet is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
   • Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Apple Mixture:
   • In a large bowl, combine the chopped apples, maple syrup or honey, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, vanilla extract, raisins or dried cranberries (if using), and chopped nuts.
   • Stir well to coat the apples evenly with the spices and sweetener.
4. Combine Millet and Apple Mixture:
   • Add the cooked millet to the apple mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Add Wet Ingredients:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter or coconut oil and beaten eggs.
   • Pour this mixture over the millet and apple mixture and stir until everything is evenly incorporated.
6. Bake the Breakfast Bake:
   • Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown and the bake is set.
7. Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
   • Serve warm, topped with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or non-dairy yogurt if desired.

Tips and Variations:

• Extra Fruit: Add chopped pears, berries, or bananas for additional flavor and texture.
• Spice Variation: Try adding a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom for a different spice profile.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the bake the night before and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, bake it fresh for a quick and easy breakfast.
• Vegan Option: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) instead of eggs and a non-dairy milk and yogurt.

Enjoy this millet and apple breakfast bake as a wholesome and delicious start to your day. The combination of nutty millet, sweet apples, and warm spices makes for a comforting and satisfying breakfast. Happy cooking!