If you’re searching for a breakfast that’s cozy, nutritious, and bursting with the classic flavors of fall, look no further than Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal. Every bite promises that homey blend of tender apples, warm cinnamon, and hearty oats, making it a true morning treat you’ll return to time and again. Whether you’re feeding a busy household or meal prepping for the week, this satisfying bake brings a wonderful aroma and even better flavor to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal are refreshingly simple and each one works its magic to deliver pure morning comfort. Every element has a role, from the oats that provide structure to the apples that add juicy sweetness and a pop of color.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: These are the backbone of your bake, giving it structure while keeping every forkful hearty and filling.
- Ground cinnamon: The signature spice—warm, comforting, and the best partner for apples.
- Baking powder: Adds lift, ensuring the oatmeal is pleasantly fluffy rather than dense.
- Salt: Just a pinch brings all the flavors into sharper focus.
- Milk (dairy or non-dairy): Keeps the oats tender and creamy—use your favorite variety!
- Maple syrup or honey: Naturally sweetens while adding a delicate layer of flavor complexity.
- Large egg: Holds everything together so you get those perfect, sliceable squares.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor with a subtle, inviting aroma.
- Melted butter or coconut oil: Brings richness and moisture to every bite; coconut oil adds a touch of nuttiness.
- Diced apples (peeled if desired): Add juicy pockets of sweetness and lovely texture; your favorite apple variety works well here.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Fold these in for an irresistible crunch and a hint of toasted flavor.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal
Step 1: Prep the Baking Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F and lightly greasing an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish. This little bit of prep ensures a golden, easy-release baked oatmeal every time, so you can serve neat slices without any sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. This step guarantees the flavors and leavening agents are distributed evenly, giving you a consistent taste and perfect texture throughout your Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal.
Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the milk, maple syrup (or honey), egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter (or coconut oil). Whisk until everything is completely blended—this helps produce a custardy mixture that bakes up creamy and flavorful.
Step 4: Combine and Fold in Apples and Nuts
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with your oat mixture and stir just until combined. Gently fold in the diced apples and, if you’d like, the chopped nuts. This is where you’ll start to see bursts of apple and bits of nut peeking through, promising lots of flavor and crunch in each bite.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the oatmeal mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer. For an extra touch of sweetness and sparkle, sprinkle a little brown sugar over the top if you wish. Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden and the center feels set when gently pressed.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let your Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal cool for a few minutes before slicing. This makes serving a breeze, and allows the flavors to settle into cozy harmony. Serve warm to unlock the fullest aroma and most comforting texture.
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal
Garnishes
Take your oatmeal to the next level with a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt, a drizzle of additional maple syrup, or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. Fresh apple slices, toasted nuts, or even a handful of raisins lend extra flair and flavor to each serving.
Side Dishes
This breakfast bake pairs beautifully with a fresh fruit salad or a side of scrambled eggs for a little extra protein. A mug of hot coffee or spiced chai rounds things out for the ultimate comforting meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal in individual ramekins or mason jars for a charming brunch presentation. For special occasions, top each portion with a scoop of vanilla yogurt and a few toasted walnuts for an elegant, dessert-like touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal keeps beautifully in the refrigerator. Simply wrap the baking dish or store individual slices in airtight containers for up to five days—making breakfast a breeze all week long.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the oatmeal in squares or as a whole slab. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil or use freezer-safe containers to keep it fresh for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Warm individual pieces in the microwave for about a minute, or place larger portions in a 350°F oven until heated through. A splash of milk before reheating will restore that creamy, just-baked texture.
FAQs
Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
Steel-cut oats won’t soften quite the same way as rolled oats do for this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal. For best results, stick to old-fashioned rolled oats or quick-cooking oats if you prefer a softer texture.
What kind of apples are best?
Any firm, slightly tart apple—like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji—works great here. Choose your favorite for the perfect balance of sweetness and structure.
Can I make Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use almond, oat, or any non-dairy milk you love, and swap butter with coconut oil to make this breakfast totally dairy-free.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
If you need Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal to be gluten-free, simply select certified gluten-free oats and double-check that your other ingredients are safe for your needs.
How do I make this even sweeter?
Feel free to add an extra tablespoon of maple syrup or honey to the mixture, or scatter brown sugar on top before baking for an extra caramelized finish.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal enough as a way to start your day on a warm, nourishing note. It’s simple, endlessly adaptable, and always delicious. Give it a try and let these wonderful flavors make your mornings extraordinary!
Print
Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy a cozy and flavorful breakfast with this delicious Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal. Perfect for chilly mornings, this dish combines hearty oats, warm cinnamon, sweet apples, and crunchy nuts for a satisfying start to your day.
Ingredients
Oatmeal Mixture:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Liquid Mixture:
- 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- ¼ cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil
Additional:
- 1½ cups diced apples (peeled if desired)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, maple syrup, egg, vanilla, and melted butter.
- Combine mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until combined. Fold in the diced apples and nuts, if using.
- Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
- Cool and serve: Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For extra sweetness, sprinkle a little brown sugar on top before baking.
- Serve warm with yogurt, milk, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 5 days and reheated.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
