Easy Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe

Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

Warm up your mornings with this easy Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal recipe that’s both healthy and delicious, making it the perfect cozy breakfast to start your day right. Packed with tender baked oats, sweet apples, and a comforting hint of cinnamon, this dish offers a satisfying texture and natural sweetness, all while being nourishing and simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Comfort in a bowl: Enjoy the warm, inviting flavors of baked oats combined with spiced apples that feel like a hug from the inside out.
  • Wholesome and filling: Loaded with fiber-rich oats and fresh fruit, this breakfast keeps you energized and full until lunch.
  • Simple to make: With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a fuss-free morning treat anyone can whip up.
  • Customizable goodness: You can easily adjust it with nuts, seeds, or alternative sweeteners to suit your personal taste or dietary needs.
  • Great for batch cooking: Make a big dish ahead of time to have nutritious mornings ready for days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but essential, working together to build a perfect balance of taste, texture, and color in your Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal. Each component adds its own charm—from the heartiness of oats to the natural sweetness of apples and the warmth of cinnamon.

  • Old-fashioned rolled oats: The foundation for that chewy yet tender baked texture.
  • Fresh apples: Adds natural sweetness and a bit of tartness that brightens the whole dish.
  • Cinnamon: Gives that signature warm and spicy flavor that pairs beautifully with apples.
  • Milk or plant-based milk: Keeps the oats moist and helps bind the ingredients together.
  • Egg: Acts as a natural binder for a perfectly set oatmeal bake.
  • Maple syrup or honey: A touch of sweetness that enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them.
  • Baking powder: Helps the oatmeal rise slightly, creating a light texture.
  • Vanilla extract: Adds subtle depth and rounds out the flavor profile.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
  • Chopped nuts (optional): Adds crunch and richness when stirred in.

Variations for Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

This easy Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal recipe is incredibly adaptable, so feel free to make it your own by swapping or adding ingredients to match your dietary preferences or mood.

  • Vegan swap: Replace the egg with a flax or chia egg and use plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
  • Extra fruit: Toss in berries, raisins, or chopped pears for more fruity bursts in every bite.
  • Nut-free version: Simply omit nuts and add seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for crunch without allergens.
  • Spices twist: Include nutmeg, ground ginger, or cardamom to elevate the spice profile.
  • Sweetener options: Use coconut sugar, agave syrup, or date syrup instead of maple or honey.
Easy Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

Step 1: Prepare the apples

Start by peeling, coring, and chopping fresh apples into small chunks or thin slices, depending on your preference for texture. Toss them with a sprinkle of cinnamon to infuse warm spice right from the start.

Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, salt, and the rest of the cinnamon. Whisk these together so that the spices and leavening agent are evenly distributed throughout the oats.

Step 3: Combine the wet ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, maple syrup (or your chosen sweetener), and vanilla extract until fully blended to create a smooth base that will hold the baked oatmeal together.

Step 4: Assemble the mixture

Add the wet mixture into the dry oats and gently stir until everything is combined, then fold in the cinnamon-coated apples and any optional chopped nuts or seeds evenly.

Step 5: Bake to perfection

Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden and the oats have set with a slight jiggle in the center.

Step 6: Cool and serve

Allow the Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps it firm up and makes serving easier.

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

  • Use tart apples: Choose Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best balance of sweetness and tanginess.
  • Don’t overmix: Stir just enough to combine ingredients to keep a tender texture.
  • Let it rest: Cooling slightly before serving helps the oatmeal set perfectly.
  • Grease your pan well: Use butter or coconut oil so the baked oatmeal easily releases after baking.
  • Adjust sweetness post-bake: Drizzle extra maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt when serving if you like more sweetness.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of chopped walnuts, a dusting of powdered cinnamon, or fresh apple slices on top for an eye-catching and tasty presentation.

Side Dishes

Pair this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal with fresh fruit, a scoop of Greek yogurt, or a warm cup of spiced chai tea for a complete and comforting morning meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in ramekins or mason jars for a cute grab-and-go breakfast. You can also drizzle nut butter or swirl in some jam for extra flavor and variety.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to enjoy quick breakfast options throughout the week without any extra work.

Freezing

Slice the baked oatmeal into portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. It freezes beautifully for up to 3 months and thaws quickly.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the microwave or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes. Adding a splash of milk before warming restores moisture for a freshly baked feel.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

While rolled oats provide the best texture for Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal, quick oats can be used in a pinch, though the final texture will be softer and less hearty.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe can be gluten-free if you choose certified gluten-free oats and ensure all other ingredients don’t contain gluten cross-contamination.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Swap the egg for a flax or chia egg and use a plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk instead of dairy milk.

How sweet is this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal?

The sweetness level is mild and natural from the apples and maple syrup, but feel free to adjust it by adding more or less sweetener according to your preference.

Can I add protein powder to this recipe?

Absolutely! Adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder can boost the protein content; just be sure to adjust the liquid slightly to keep the right consistency.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is a cozy, nourishing way to greet the morning, delivering big flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or treating yourself to a special weekend breakfast, this recipe invites warmth and comfort with every bite. Give it a try and make your mornings something to look forward to!

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Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

Warm up your mornings with this healthy and delicious Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal recipe. Featuring tender baked oats, sweet apples, and comforting cinnamon, this easy-to-make breakfast is nourishing, customizable, and perfect for batch cooking to start your day right.

  • Author: Lilly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Total Time: 50-55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 2 medium fresh apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided
  • 2 cups milk or plant-based milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans) or seeds (pumpkin, sunflower)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and chop the fresh apples into small chunks or thin slices based on your desired texture. Toss them with 1 teaspoon of the ground cinnamon to infuse warm spice from the start.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, salt, and the remaining 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Whisk together to evenly distribute spices and leavening agent.
  3. Combine the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, maple syrup (or chosen sweetener), and vanilla extract until smooth to create a well-blended base.
  4. Assemble the mixture: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry oats and gently stir until combined. Fold in the cinnamon-coated apples and any optional chopped nuts or seeds evenly throughout the mixture.
  5. Bake to perfection: Grease a baking dish and pour the batter evenly inside. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the oatmeal is set with a slight jiggle in the center.
  6. Cool and serve: Let the baked oatmeal cool for 5-10 minutes to firm up before slicing, making it easier to serve and enjoy.

Notes

  • Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best balance of sweetness and tanginess.
  • Don’t overmix the batter to maintain a tender texture.
  • Grease your baking dish well with butter or coconut oil to prevent sticking.
  • Allow the baked oatmeal to rest before serving for a perfect set.
  • Adjust sweetness after baking with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt if desired.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 of recipe)
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: apple baked oatmeal, cinnamon baked oatmeal, healthy breakfast, cozy breakfast, gluten free oatmeal, vegan option, batch cooking breakfast

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