Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal
Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is the kind of breakfast that makes you feel warm and happy from the very first bite. The sweet apples and the cozy flavor of cinnamon come together in a soft, chewy bake with a golden top. It’s simple, filling, and full of the flavors of fall.
This dish is perfect for a busy weekday breakfast or a slow weekend brunch. You can make it ahead, reheat it easily, and even change it up with different fruits or spices.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1¾ cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil
- 2 apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- (Optional) ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk milk, eggs, maple syrup, vanilla, and melted butter.
- Combine the wet and dry mixtures.
- Fold in the apples and optional nuts.
- Pour into the baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden and set.
- Let cool slightly before cutting and serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6 | Calories: about 260 per serving
Why This Recipe is Special
This baked oatmeal is simple, healthy, and so easy to make. Unlike stovetop oatmeal, which can be mushy, this version bakes into firm slices that are great for meal prep. The apples add sweetness, the cinnamon adds warmth, and the oats give you lasting energy.
It feels like apple pie for breakfast—but much healthier.
The Story Behind Baked Oatmeal
Baked oatmeal comes from Amish and Pennsylvania Dutch kitchens. It started as a simple, hearty breakfast that could be made with pantry staples. Over time, it became a family favorite because it’s easy, filling, and perfect for feeding a crowd.
Adding apples and cinnamon makes it extra comforting and gives it that nostalgic, homey flavor.
Health Benefits in Every Slice
- Oats: Rich in fiber to keep you full and support heart health.
- Apples: Add natural sweetness and gut-friendly fiber.
- Cinnamon: A warm spice with antioxidants.
- Eggs: Give protein and help the bake set.
- Maple syrup or honey: A natural sweetener with a richer flavor than sugar.
You can also adapt this recipe:
- Use gluten-free oats if needed.
- Replace eggs with flax eggs for a vegan option.
- Use plant-based milk for dairy-free.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Families
This recipe makes busy mornings easier. Bake it once, slice it into squares, and reheat throughout the week. Kids love it too—it’s lightly sweet, soft, and easy to eat. You can even sneak in extras like chia seeds or shredded veggies without changing the flavor.
Seasonal Variations
This oatmeal is easy to customize with different fruits and spices:
- Spring: blueberries with lemon zest
- Summer: peaches with vanilla
- Winter: cranberries with nutmeg and orange zest
The base stays the same, so you can make it all year round.
Great for Special Occasions
Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is also perfect for gatherings. It can be made in advance and served warm or at room temperature. Add it to your brunch table for Christmas morning, Thanksgiving, or New Year’s breakfast.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a breakfast that is cozy, nutritious, and easy to make, Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is a winner. It’s simple, family-friendly, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you enjoy it plain, topped with yogurt, or with an extra drizzle of maple syrup, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home.
