If you’re craving a cozy, heartwarming breakfast that feels like a big, delicious hug, then you absolutely have to try this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe. It’s the perfect balance of tender baked oats infused with warm cinnamon and sweet, tender apples that come together in a dish that’s as comforting as it is wholesome. Each bite delivers a satisfying texture and a homey aroma that will fill your kitchen with pure joy. Whether you’re making it for weekday mornings or a lazy weekend brunch, this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and simple, but every single one plays a vital role in making your Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe shine. From the hearty oats that give it body and chewiness to the fragrant cinnamon that adds warmth, each item contributes perfectly to the final texture, flavor, and beautiful color.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: The foundation of the dish, these oats provide a satisfying chew and hearty texture.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds that unmistakable warm, spicy aroma and flavor.
- Baking powder: Gives the oatmeal a light, fluffy rise without heaviness.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances flavors beautifully.
- Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together for a perfect set and rich texture.
- Milk or milk alternative: Provides moisture and creaminess to the batter.
- Maple syrup or honey: Natural sweeteners that add gentle sweetness and depth.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses a lovely fragrant sweetness that brings all the ingredients together.
- Fresh apples, peeled and diced: Bring fresh bursts of juicy sweetness and tender fruitiness to every bite.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Start by peeling, coring, and dicing the apples into small chunks. This size is perfect because it allows the apples to soften during baking without turning into mush, offering delightful bursts of tender fruit throughout your baked oatmeal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Whisking these together ensures that the cinnamon and baking powder are evenly distributed, which is key for consistent flavor and a lovely rise.
Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This creates a creamy base that hydrates the oats and adds natural sweetness and richness.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry oat ingredients, then gently fold in the chopped apples. Stir just until everything is thoroughly mixed—overmixing can make the oatmeal dense, so keep it light and gentle.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer your oatmeal batter into a greased baking dish and spread evenly. Pop it into an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Once out of the oven, let your baked oatmeal cool for a few minutes. This resting time helps it set up properly so that when you slice it, your squares hold their shape perfectly and look just as inviting as they taste.
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe, consider topping your slices with a dollop of Greek yogurt for tanginess, a drizzle of warm maple syrup for extra sweetness, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for delightful crunch. Fresh apple slices or a pinch of cinnamon on top make for a pretty presentation and add an extra burst of flavor.
Side Dishes
This baked oatmeal pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit salads, a side of crispy bacon for those who enjoy savory contrasts in the morning, or even a warm cup of coffee or chai tea to complement the cinnamon notes. It’s a versatile dish that can fit in naturally with a variety of breakfast spreads.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting brunch or just want to get creative, try serving the Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe in individual ramekins for personalized portions or layered in parfait glasses with yogurt and granola for a stunning visual delight. You can also cut it into bars for an easy, grab-and-go breakfast option that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This means you can enjoy quick, nourishing breakfasts all week without any extra effort.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in bulk, you can freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil and placed in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months and make for a super convenient breakfast solution.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pop slices or portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or warm them in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. A quick reheat brings back that freshly-baked delight, making every bite just as comforting as the first.
FAQs
Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
While instant oats can be used in a pinch, rolled oats work best for texture and structure. Instant oats tend to become mushy when baked, so the traditional rolled oats are preferred for this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the milk with any your preferred non-dairy alternatives such as almond, oat, or soy milk. The recipe was designed with flexibility in mind, so feel free to adjust to your dietary preferences.
Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the recipe?
Definitely! Adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans adds a wonderful crunch, while dried fruits like raisins or cranberries lend extra sweetness and chewiness. Just fold them in along with the apples for the perfect mix.
How sweet is this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe?
The sweetness is gentle and naturally balanced, thanks to the maple syrup or honey and fresh apples. If you prefer it sweeter, feel free to increase the maple syrup slightly or top each serving with a drizzle of syrup or honey.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time for busy mornings?
Yes! This is a fantastic make-ahead breakfast. You can bake it the night before and store it in the fridge, then simply reheat in the morning for a quick, nourishing start to your day without any fuss.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe is truly a breakfast treasure, blending wholesome ingredients and cozy flavors into a dish that feels like pure comfort. Whether you’re new to baked oatmeal or craving a reliable classic, I can’t recommend it enough. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your favorite ways to start the day with joy and warmth.
Print
Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is a warm, comforting breakfast dish featuring fresh apples, fragrant cinnamon, and hearty oats baked to golden perfection. Sweetened naturally with maple syrup or honey, it’s a wholesome and delicious way to start your morning, perfect for meal prep or family brunch.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups milk or milk alternative (such as almond, oat, or soy milk)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fruit
- 2 medium fresh apples, peeled, cored, and diced
Instructions
- Prepare Apples: Peel, core, and dice the apples into small chunks to ensure they soften nicely during baking while maintaining some texture.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these together to evenly distribute the spices and leavening.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, milk, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract until smooth and well blended.
- Combine Mixtures: Add the wet ingredients to the dry oat mixture, then fold in the chopped apples. Stir gently until everything is thoroughly combined.
- Bake: Pour the oatmeal batter into a greased baking dish, spreading evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the baked oatmeal to cool slightly before slicing. This resting time helps it set perfectly for serving.
Notes
- You can use any milk alternative such as almond, oat, or soy milk depending on your preference or dietary needs.
- Maple syrup or honey can be adjusted to taste or substituted with a low-calorie sweetener for a healthier option.
- For extra flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or raisins when mixing the wet and dry ingredients.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat gently before serving.
- This recipe is easily customizable; try adding different spices like nutmeg or ginger for variation.
