The aroma of cinnamon and apples drifting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone leap out of bed. This Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is the very definition of comfort food with a healthy twist. It’s gently sweetened with maple syrup and loaded with soft, baked apples that melt in your mouth. A sprinkle of nuts on top gives it a lovely crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender oats.
Perfect for busy mornings, meal prepping, or weekend brunches, this baked oatmeal is wholesome, hearty, and endlessly customizable. Whether served warm with milk, topped with yogurt and nut butter, or enjoyed cold from the fridge, it’s a nourishing way to start your day. Plus, it stores well and reheats like a dream making it a favorite for families and solo foodies alike.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
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¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
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¼ teaspoon salt
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2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
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2 tablespoons maple syrup
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 large egg
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2 tablespoons melted coconut oil or butter
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1½ cups diced apples (about 1 large apple)
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¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large bowl, mix oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, maple syrup, vanilla, egg, and melted oil or butter.
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Pour the wet mixture into the dry and stir to combine.
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Fold in diced apples and nuts, if using.
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Pour the mixture into a greased 8×8-inch baking dish.
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Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
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Let cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with more maple syrup if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is a warm, comforting, and nourishing breakfast dish that has steadily grown in popularity among home cooks, health enthusiasts, and food bloggers alike. With its soft, cake-like texture and irresistible aroma of cinnamon and apples wafting from the oven, it’s not hard to understand why. This dish is a healthy twist on traditional oatmeal, transforming it into something heartier, more satisfying, and perfect for meal prep or serving to a crowd.
Whether you’re looking for a wholesome breakfast option, a make-ahead meal, or a family-friendly dish that feels indulgent without compromising your nutrition goals, this baked oatmeal recipe fits the bill. It’s an ideal choice for busy mornings, cozy weekends, or anytime you crave a little warmth and sweetness at the start of your day.
What Is Baked Oatmeal and Why Is It So Popular?
Baked oatmeal is essentially a casserole-style dish made from old-fashioned rolled oats, milk, eggs, natural sweeteners, and your favorite mix-ins like fruits, nuts, or spices. The result is a tender, sliceable breakfast that falls somewhere between oatmeal and a soft breakfast bar or bread pudding.
One of the primary reasons for its popularity is its versatility. It can be tailored to different dietary needs gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free, and vegan versions are all possible with a few simple substitutions. And unlike stovetop oatmeal that must be prepared fresh each morning, baked oatmeal can be made ahead of time and stored for days in the fridge or freezer.
In particular, apple cinnamon baked oatmeal offers a nostalgic flavor profile that resonates with many evoking memories of warm apple pie or cinnamon-spiced holiday treats, but in a health-conscious and approachable way.
The Nutritional Benefits of Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal
Apple cinnamon baked oatmeal isn’t just comforting and delicious it’s also packed with nutrients that can support your health and energy throughout the day.
1. Rich in Fiber:
Oats are well-known for their high fiber content, particularly a soluble fiber called beta-glucan, which supports heart health by lowering cholesterol levels. The apples also contribute fiber, helping with digestion and keeping you fuller longer.
2. Balanced Energy:
Thanks to its combination of complex carbohydrates, protein from eggs or plant-based substitutes, and healthy fats (especially if nuts or seeds are added), baked oatmeal provides a balanced source of energy that helps avoid mid-morning crashes.
3. Naturally Sweetened:
Many baked oatmeal recipes use maple syrup or honey instead of refined sugar, providing sweetness with added antioxidants and a lower glycemic impact.
4. Seasonal Fruit Benefits:
Apples are rich in vitamin C, polyphenols, and antioxidants. When baked, they become tender and sweet, reducing the need for added sugars while offering a comforting, soft texture.
5. Great for Meal Prep:
A batch of baked oatmeal makes 6–8 servings, making it ideal for prepping your breakfast ahead of time. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven and can even be frozen in individual portions.
Flavor Profile: Sweet, Spiced, and Satisfying
This version of baked oatmeal leans heavily into the comforting flavors of fall, though it can be enjoyed year-round. Cinnamon is the star spice, offering warmth and a hint of sweetness without overwhelming the dish. Nutmeg may be added for complexity, and a touch of vanilla enhances the natural sweetness of the apples and maple syrup.
Diced apples, which soften during baking, provide pops of fruity flavor and a delightful texture. Optional add-ins like walnuts or pecans lend crunch and richness, while a drizzle of maple syrup on top adds indulgence without excessive sugar.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Oatmeal Recipe
1. It’s Customizable:
You can swap out apples for pears, berries, or bananas, depending on what you have on hand. Spices like cardamom, allspice, or ginger can be added for a new twist. Want to make it dairy-free? Use almond milk or oat milk. Need it vegan? Use a flax egg instead of a regular one.
2. It’s Easy to Make:
This recipe requires minimal prep time and just one bowl for mixing. After it’s baked, you can portion it out and store it in the fridge for up to five days—just reheat and enjoy.
3. It’s Family-Friendly:
Even picky eaters tend to love the soft, sweet flavor of this dish. It tastes like a warm apple muffin in casserole form. Top it with yogurt, nut butter, or a few chocolate chips to keep things exciting for the kids (or yourself!).
4. It’s Great for Entertaining:
Serve baked oatmeal at your next brunch or holiday gathering. It’s a stress-free dish that can be baked ahead and served warm or at room temperature. Add a topping bar with yogurt, honey, nuts, and fruit to let guests customize their servings.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving:
- Serve warm with a splash of milk or non-dairy milk for a cozy breakfast.
- Top with Greek yogurt and fresh apple slices for added protein and crunch.
- Add a spoonful of almond butter or peanut butter for healthy fats and flavor.
- Drizzle with maple syrup or honey if you prefer extra sweetness.
- Pair it with scrambled eggs or a smoothie for a balanced meal.
It’s also excellent on its own whether you’re eating it on a lazy Sunday morning or packing it up to take to the office.
Tips for the Best Baked Oatmeal
- Use rolled oats for the best texture. Instant oats can become too mushy, and steel-cut oats will require different cooking times.
- Dice apples small so they soften fully while baking. Peel them if you prefer a smoother texture.
- Let it rest after baking. The oatmeal sets up as it cools, making it easier to slice or scoop.
- Add a crunchy topping. Sprinkle chopped nuts or a cinnamon-oat crumble on top before baking for extra texture.
Make It Your Own: Variations and Substitutes
- For a vegan version: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) and plant-based milk.
- Add protein: Stir in a scoop of protein powder or add a few tablespoons of chia seeds or hemp hearts.
- Make it dessert-worthy: Top with a scoop of vanilla yogurt or even ice cream for a healthier dessert option.
- Turn it into muffins: Portion the mixture into muffin cups and bake for 25–30 minutes for individual servings.
- Add dried fruit: Raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates add extra sweetness and chew.
Conclusion: The Perfect Blend of Comfort and Nutrition
Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is more than just a trendy breakfast it’s a comforting, nourishing, and practical option that fits into almost any lifestyle. Whether you’re feeding your family, meal prepping for the week, or simply treating yourself to a wholesome start to the day, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
It’s easy to make, easy to love, and endlessly adaptable. The aroma of cinnamon and baked apples brings warmth to any morning, and the hearty, satisfying texture will keep you energized and full for hours. Try it once, and you’ll understand why this humble breakfast dish is cherished by so many.