Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe

This Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is a wholesome, comforting breakfast that combines the sweet, tart flavor of apples with warm cinnamon and hearty oats. It’s baked to perfection, creating a soft yet chewy texture that feels like a cozy bowl of oatmeal but in a convenient, make-ahead form. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh from the oven or reheating it during the week, this dish is perfect for busy mornings.

Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

I absolutely love making baked oatmeal because it’s a simple, versatile dish that can be prepared in advance and enjoyed throughout the week. This apple cinnamon version is one of my favorites because it’s naturally sweetened with apples and maple syrup, and the cinnamon adds a warm, comforting flavor. Plus, the baked oats hold up wonderfully, so you can slice them into squares for easy, grab-and-go breakfasts. Serve it with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of yogurt, or even a splash of milk for a complete, satisfying meal.

This baked oatmeal pairs perfectly with a side of Greek Yogurt with Fresh Berries or a simple smoothie like Super-Simple Summer Smoothie Recipe for a balanced breakfast.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe

• Healthy and Nutritious: Made with wholesome oats, fresh apples, and natural sweeteners, this baked oatmeal is packed with fiber and nutrients.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can bake this ahead of time and store it in the fridge for an easy, ready-to-go breakfast all week.
• Warm and Comforting: The flavors of cinnamon and baked apples make this dish feel like a cozy, homemade treat.
• Great for Meal Prep: You can make a big batch and reheat portions as needed, making it perfect for busy mornings.

Main Ingredients for Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

1. Old-Fashioned Oats – The base of the recipe, providing fiber and a hearty texture.
2. Apples – Adds natural sweetness and a bit of tartness to balance the flavors.
3. Cinnamon – Warm and aromatic, cinnamon enhances the flavor of the apples and oats.
4. Maple Syrup – Naturally sweetens the oatmeal without refined sugars.
5. Milk – Helps create a creamy texture and moistens the oats.
6. Eggs – Binds the ingredients together and adds some protein.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe

Here’s how to make this healthy and delicious baked oatmeal step by step:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or similar-sized dish with butter or nonstick spray.
   • Tip: Greasing the dish ensures that the oatmeal won’t stick and makes for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and dice 2 medium apples into small pieces. Toss the apples with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and set aside.
   • Pro Tip: Use sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best balance of flavor.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix 2 cups of old-fashioned oats, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
   • Tip: You can add other spices like nutmeg or cloves for extra warmth and flavor.
4. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of milk, 2 large eggs, 1/4 cup of maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined.
   • Variation: You can substitute almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
5. Combine the Oatmeal Mixture: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until well mixed. Gently fold in the diced apples.
   • Pro Tip: If you like nuts, you can stir in 1/4 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
6. Pour into the Baking Dish: Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
   • Tip: For an extra touch, sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top before baking for a slightly sweet and crispy topping.
7. Bake the Oatmeal: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the oatmeal is set. Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
   • Pro Tip: If the oatmeal seems too soft, you can bake it for an additional 5 minutes to firm it up.
8. Serve: Slice the baked oatmeal into squares and serve warm. Drizzle with extra maple syrup, add a dollop of yogurt, or pour a little milk over the top for a creamy finish.
   • Serving Idea: Top with extra apple slices or a handful of fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor.

Extra Tips and Variations

• Add Nuts or Seeds: Stir in some chia seeds, flaxseeds, or chopped nuts for added texture and nutrition.
• Customize with Fruits: You can swap the apples for other fruits like pears, berries, or peaches to switch up the flavor.
• How to Store: Store leftover baked oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven.
• How to Freeze: You can freeze baked oatmeal in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Health Benefits of Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

This baked oatmeal is packed with health benefits, thanks to the oats and apples. Oats provide fiber, which supports digestive health and helps keep you full, while apples are rich in antioxidants and vitamins. By using natural sweeteners like maple syrup, this recipe is free from refined sugars, making it a healthier option for breakfast.

• High in Fiber: Oats and apples are great sources of fiber, supporting digestion and helping to keep you feeling full longer.
• Rich in Antioxidants: Apples are full of antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and support overall health.
• Naturally Sweetened: This recipe uses maple syrup to sweeten the dish, avoiding refined sugars for a healthier breakfast.