Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe

If you’re anything like me and love waking up to cozy, homey breakfasts, then you’re going to adore this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe. It’s warm, comforting, and packed with flavors that remind me of crisp fall mornings—without requiring a ton of fuss before you dive in. Plus, it bakes ahead so you can savor something deliciously wholesome all week long. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become a staple in your breakfast rotation.

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Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient in this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe plays a special role to build that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and nutrition. When shopping, grab quality rolled oats, fresh apples, and spices that smell vibrant to boost your baking game.

• Old Fashioned Oats: These oats soak up the liquid while maintaining a tender, chewy texture; don’t substitute with instant oats to keep the structure intact.
• White Sugar: Adds sweetness without overpowering the warm cinnamon and apple flavors.
• Brown Sugar: Brings a deep molasses flavor that complements cinnamon perfectly.
• Baking Powder: Helps the oatmeal rise just enough to stay light and fluffy.
• Ground Cinnamon: The star spice that gives this dish its classic, cozy taste.
• Table Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Milk: Provides moisture and tenderness – you can easily swap with a plant-based milk if you prefer.
• Eggs: Bind everything together so your baked oatmeal slices hold firm without crumbling.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a sweet, aromatic depth that rounds out the cinnamon and apple beautifully.
• Salted Butter: Melts into the oats for that rich flavor; feel free to substitute with coconut oil if dairy-free.
• Apples: Fresh, peeled, and chopped apples provide bursts of juice and texture throughout the dish.

Tweak to Your Taste

One of the things I love most about this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. I’ve played around with add-ins and swaps, so don’t hesitate to experiment and find your perfect version.

• Variation: I sometimes toss in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft apples.
• Dairy-Free Option: Using coconut oil and almond milk works wonders and keeps the baked oatmeal moist and flavorful.
• Spice It Up: If you like a bit more warmth, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice along with cinnamon.
• Sweetness Level: Depending on your apples (some are naturally sweeter), I sometimes cut back on the brown sugar to keep it balanced.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe

Step 1: Ready Your Oven and Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab an 8×8 glass baking dish and give it a nice coat of butter or non-stick spray. This helps the oatmeal bake evenly and makes cleanup a breeze. I always line my mind here thinking about that golden crust I’m about to get!

Step 2: Mix All the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the oats, white sugar, packed brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This dry mix is your flavor base, so take a moment to enjoy that cinnamon aroma. It just sets the tone for what’s to come.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients Separately

Whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract in another bowl until smooth. This ensures a silky texture and a well-blended mixture when added to the oats. If your eggs are large and fresh, you’re off to a great start.

Step 4: Bring It Together

Pour your wet ingredients into the dry oat mixture and whisk until everything is combined and consistent. Now, slowly whisk in the melted, cooled butter to avoid cooking the eggs. Lastly, gently fold in the peeled, chopped apple chunks—these little bursts of fruit make every bite exciting.

Step 5: Bake and Wait Patiently

Pour the batter into your prepared dish and smooth the top with the back of a spoon. Pop it in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes—keep an eye on it toward the end. You want the center to be set but not dry. When it jiggles just a bit and the edges turn golden, you’re good!

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the baked oatmeal cool for 5 to 10 minutes in the pan before slicing. This resting time helps it firm up so your servings hold nicely. I love to drizzle a splash of milk or top it with whipped cream for a little indulgence that morning deserves.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe

Garnishes

I adore topping my slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a splash of warm milk—sometimes both if I’m feeling fancy! A sprinkle of extra cinnamon or chopped toasted nuts adds an inviting texture and flavor boost. If you’re in a hurry, a drizzle of maple syrup works wonders too.

Side Dishes

This baked oatmeal pairs beautifully with fresh fruit salad or Greek yogurt. When I’ve made brunch for friends, I love serving it alongside scrambled eggs or crispy bacon to balance the sweetness with savory. It’s a comforting combo that never disappoints.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I slice the baked oatmeal into small squares, then arrange them on a platter with cinnamon sticks, apple slices, and miniature jars of honey or nut butter for guests to customize their bowls. It’s a fun, interactive way to share the cozy vibes and flavor variety.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I always let my baked oatmeal cool completely before popping it into an airtight container to keep in the fridge. It stays fresh for about 5 days, making it perfect for prepping breakfasts or snacks in advance.

Freezing

When I want to keep this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe longer, I let it cool fully, then wrap it tightly in foil and freeze. Once frozen solid, I transfer it to a freezer bag or container for up to 2 months. It defrosts beautifully overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

I prefer reheating individual portions in a toaster oven or air fryer to keep the edges crisp and warm it evenly. But the microwave is fine too if you’re in a hurry. A quick splash of milk or a pat of butter on top before heating amps up the freshness.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe quickly became one of my favorite breakfast rituals because it’s simple, nourishing, and endlessly comforting. It’s like a warm hug first thing in the morning. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—plus, it’s a wonderful way to sneak in some wholesome oats and fruit. So grab those apples and cinnamon, and I promise you’ll be rewarded with pure deliciousness. Don’t forget to share how yours turns out—I’d love to hear about your twists too!

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