Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal
This Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is a simple, nourishing breakfast that’s high in fiber, naturally sweet, and perfect for meal prep. With wholesome oats, juicy apples, and warm cinnamon, it’s both comforting and satisfying. Quick to assemble and baked to golden perfection, it makes mornings easy and delicious for the whole family.
Equipment
- 1 × 8×8-inch baking dish
- 1 × Large mixing bowl
- 1 × Medium mixing bowl
- 1 × whisk or fork
- Nonstick cooking spray or butter for greasing
Ingredients
- 2 ¼ cups old fashioned oats
- 1 ¾ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 ¾ cups unsweetened vanilla almond milk or milk of choice
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ⅓ cup pure maple syrup or brown sugar/honey
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil slightly cooled
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup diced apples Honeycrisp recommended
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensuring the oven is at the right temperature before you start baking is crucial for even cooking. Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray, butter, or coconut oil. Make sure the coating reaches every corner to prevent the oatmeal from sticking, then set the dish aside.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add 2 1/4 cups of old fashioned oats. Sprinkle in 1 3/4 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Use a whisk or fork to stir the mixture thoroughly, ensuring the spices and leavening agent are evenly distributed throughout the oats. This step creates a balanced flavor foundation for your baked oatmeal.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium-sized bowl, combine the wet ingredients. Pour in 1 3/4 cups of unsweetened vanilla almond milk (or any milk of your choice), 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce, and 1/3 cup pure maple syrup (or your preferred sweetener such as honey or brown sugar). Add 2 tablespoons of melted butter or coconut oil, allowing it to cool slightly before adding to prevent curdling the eggs. Next, whisk in 2 beaten large eggs and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract. Mix well until the mixture becomes smooth, creamy, and fully incorporated.
- Incorporate Wet and Dry Ingredients: Slowly pour the wet mixture into the bowl containing the dry oat mixture. Using a spatula or large spoon, gently stir until all the ingredients are combined. Make sure there are no dry patches of oats left, and the mixture has a consistent, slightly thick texture. This step ensures that every bite of oatmeal is flavorful and perfectly textured.
- Fold in Apples: Once the wet and dry ingredients are combined, fold in 1 cup of diced apples. Stir gently to evenly distribute the apples throughout the oatmeal mixture. The apples will add natural sweetness and a delightful texture to the baked oatmeal, while also contributing fiber and essential nutrients.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Carefully pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared greased baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, smoothing the top to create a uniform layer. Make sure the mixture reaches the corners of the dish for even baking.
- Bake the Oatmeal: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick or knife into the center; it should come out clean, and the top should be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch. Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the oatmeal in the last 5 minutes.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the baked oatmeal from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 to 10 minutes. This step helps the oatmeal set fully and makes it easier to cut into portions. Serve warm with optional toppings like a dollop of yogurt, a drizzle of maple syrup, a sprinkle of cinnamon, fresh apple slices, or a spoonful of nut butter for added flavor and nutrition.
- Store Leftovers: If you have leftovers, cover the dish with plastic wrap or transfer portions to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 5 days. To enjoy later, simply reheat individual servings in the microwave for 30–60 seconds or warm in the oven until heated through.
- Tips for Perfect Baked Oatmeal: For extra flavor, consider tossing the diced apples with a pinch of cinnamon before folding them into the batter. You can also add a handful of chopped nuts or dried cranberries for added texture. For a plant-based version, swap eggs with flax or chia egg replacements, and use coconut oil instead of butter.
Notes
- You can easily double the recipe and bake it in a 9×13-inch pan for larger servings.
- Use firm, crisp apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala for best texture and flavor.
- For a vegan version, substitute eggs with flax or chia eggs and use coconut oil instead of butter.
- Adjust sweetness to taste—maple syrup adds natural sweetness, but brown sugar or honey works too.
- Optional toppings like nuts, yogurt, or fresh fruit enhance texture and flavor.
- Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven; check for a golden top and set center.
- Let the oatmeal cool slightly before slicing to ensure it holds together.
