If you have been searching for a comforting, wholesome breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning, this Baked Apple Oatmeal Recipe is an absolute winner. Packed with tender oats, crisp tart apples, and warmly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, it strikes the perfect balance between cozy and fresh. Each bite delivers a delightful mix of textures and natural sweetness, making it perfect for busy weekday mornings or a leisurely weekend brunch with family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together effortlessly to create the magic behind this baked oatmeal. Each one plays a vital role: oats provide heartiness, apples add a fresh tart bite, honey brings natural sweetness, and warm spices infuse the dish with comforting aromas.
- Butter, 4 Tbsp. melted plus more for greasing: Adds richness and ensures the oatmeal doesn’t stick to the pan.
- Large eggs, 2: Bind everything nicely while adding a little protein boost.
- Whole milk, 3 1/2 cups: Hydrates the oats and keeps the texture creamy and tender.
- Honey, 1/4 cup plus more for drizzling: Sweetens naturally and deepens the flavor complexity.
- Pure vanilla extract, 1 tsp.: Adds a fragrant sweetness that ties all the ingredients together.
- Rolled oats, 3 cups (about 12 oz.): The heart of the dish, supplying that satisfying chewyness and fiber.
- Baking powder, 1 tsp.: Gives the oatmeal a gentle lift and lightness.
- Ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp. plus extra for sprinkling: Infuses warmth and makes the dish feel cozy.
- Kosher salt, 1/2 tsp.: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
- Freshly grated nutmeg, 1/8 tsp.: Adds a subtle, fragrant spice note.
- Tart apples, 2 small (about 12 oz.), peeled, cored and chopped: Bring a fresh, tangy crunch that brightens every bite.
- Chopped walnuts, 1/2 cup: Add texture and a delightful nutty flavor.
- Plain yogurt: A creamy topping that complements the baked oats beautifully.
How to Make Baked Apple Oatmeal Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously butter a 13-by-9-inch or a 3-quart baking dish. This ensures your baked oatmeal won’t stick and allows for clean, easy serving. Taking this simple step makes all the difference in the final texture and appearance.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and freshly grated nutmeg. Combining these dry ingredients first spreads the flavors evenly throughout the oatmeal, giving you consistent bursts of warm spice with every bite.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, whole milk, honey, vanilla extract, and melted butter until perfectly blended. This flavorful mixture hydrates the oats and brings a luscious depth that mirrors the richness of baked desserts but remains breakfast-friendly.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry oat mixture and gently stir until just combined—being careful not to overmix keeps the oatmeal tender rather than dense. Then fold in the chopped tart apples and walnuts, distributing them evenly so every portion has a lovely balance of sweet and crunch.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer your mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Pop it into the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, watching for a golden brown top and the scent of cinnamon filling your kitchen. The oatmeal is ready when it’s set and the apples are tender to a fork’s poke.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the baked oatmeal cool for about 20 minutes. This resting time allows it to thicken beautifully, making it easier to portion. Serve it warm topped with a dollop of plain yogurt, a drizzle of honey, and an extra sprinkle of cinnamon for a finishing touch that makes every bite feel special.
How to Serve Baked Apple Oatmeal Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dollop of creamy plain yogurt adds a cooling contrast and some tanginess to the warm spiced oatmeal. Don’t forget a drizzle of honey for added shine and sweetness, plus a pinch of cinnamon to heighten that cozy flavor profile. These little touches make your breakfast feel extra inviting.
Side Dishes
This baked apple oatmeal shines best with fresh fruit on the side. Think handfuls of berries or sliced bananas to add bright pops of color and freshness. For those who love a little extra protein, a side of crispy bacon or a boiled egg can turn this into a more substantial meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the baked oatmeal in individual ramekins for portion control and adorable presentation. Alternatively, layer warm oatmeal with spoonfuls of yogurt and a sprinkle of granola in a clear glass for a rustic parfait that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is rare), cover and refrigerate them for up to 4 days. The oatmeal holds its flavor and texture beautifully when reheated gently, making it a perfect grab-and-go option for busy mornings.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of this baked apple oatmeal by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer-safe container. Frozen oatmeal keeps well for up to 3 months, ideal for prepping breakfasts ahead of time without any compromise on taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If it feels a bit dry, stir in a splash of milk or top with a spoonful of yogurt to bring back that fresh-out-of-the-oven creaminess instantly.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith add a nice balance, sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp will bring a different flavor profile. Feel free to experiment depending on your taste and what’s in season.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Definitely. Substitute the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine, and use almond milk or another plant-based milk instead of whole milk. The texture and flavor remain deliciously intact!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just be sure to use certified gluten-free rolled oats. Most oats are naturally gluten-free but can be cross-contaminated during processing, so check your labels carefully.
How do I store baked apple oatmeal leftovers?
Keep leftover baked oatmeal refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully and can even be frozen for longer storage if needed.
Can I add other nuts or dried fruit?
For sure! Chopped pecans, almonds, or even dried cranberries or raisins add wonderful texture and flavor variations that keep this recipe exciting.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Apple Oatmeal Recipe is the kind of dish that turns breakfast into a celebration of flavors and textures, blending wholesome ingredients with cozy spices that make you feel right at home. It’s simple to prepare, wonderfully adaptable, and delicious any time of the year. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
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Baked Apple Oatmeal Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Baked Apple Oatmeal recipe is a warm, comforting breakfast dish featuring tender baked oats combined with tart apples and crunchy walnuts. Sweetened naturally with honey and spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, this nutritious meal is perfect for a cozy morning. Served with plain yogurt and an extra drizzle of honey, it offers a delightful balance of creamy, fruity, and nutty flavors.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 4 Tbsp. (1/2 stick) butter, melted, plus more, softened, for pan
- 2 large eggs
- 3 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup honey, plus more for drizzling
- 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups rolled oats (about 12 oz.)
- 1 tsp. baking powder
- 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon, plus more for sprinkling
- 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
- 1/8 tsp. freshly grated nutmeg
Fruit and Nuts
- 2 small tart apples (about 12 oz.; such as Granny Smith), cored, peeled, and chopped (about 1 3/4 cups)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
To Serve
- Plain yogurt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 13″-by-9″ or 3-quart baking dish with softened butter to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, kosher salt, and freshly grated nutmeg until evenly combined. These spices will give the oatmeal a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk the eggs, whole milk, honey, pure vanilla extract, and melted butter until fully blended. This mixture will hydrate the oats and add richness and sweetness.
- Form the Batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the oatmeal tender. Fold in the chopped tart apples and chopped walnuts, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Bake the Oatmeal: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the oatmeal is just set, golden brown on top, and the apples are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Cool and Serve: Let the baked oatmeal cool for about 20 minutes to thicken slightly. Serve warm, topped with a dollop of plain yogurt, a drizzle of honey, and a light sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor and creaminess.
Notes
- You can substitute the tart apples with another firm variety like Honeycrisp or Braeburn if preferred.
- For a nuttier flavor, toast the walnuts lightly before folding them into the batter.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- To make this recipe dairy-free, swap the whole milk with almond or oat milk and use dairy-free butter.
- This baked oatmeal can be served cold or warm depending on your preference.
