Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe | Warm, Cozy & Healthy Breakfast

There’s just something magical about the scent of cinnamon and baked apples wafting through the kitchen on a crisp morning. Whether you’re looking for a cozy fall breakfast or a nutritious meal-prep idea, this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal recipe is the perfect solution. Packed with wholesome ingredients and warm spices, it’s not only easy to make but also a surefire way to start your day on a deliciously healthy note.

In this article, we’re going deep into everything you need to know about Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal. We’ll walk you through the recipe, share creative variations, offer meal prep and storage tips, discuss nutritional benefits, and answer common questions. Get ready to master your new favorite breakfast dish!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal isn’t just another breakfast idea—it’s a total game-changer. Here’s why:

• Easy and Quick: 10-minute prep time is all it takes before popping it into the oven.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Made with old-fashioned oats, apples, cinnamon, and sweetened naturally with maple syrup and applesauce.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Store it in the fridge or freezer and reheat during busy mornings.
• Customizable: Add nuts, swap fruits, or tweak the spices to your liking.

Once you try it, Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal will likely become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before diving into the step-by-step directions, here’s what you’ll need:

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Add-ins and Toppings:

• 1 large apple, chopped (Honeycrisp or Fuji recommended)
• Optional: chopped nuts, extra apple slices, a drizzle of maple syrup

Step-by-Step Instructions for Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, maple syrup, applesauce, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring until everything is well incorporated.
5. Fold in your chopped apples evenly.
6. Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
7. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the oatmeal is set.
8. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy!

What Makes This Recipe Healthy?

The beauty of this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal lies in its nourishing ingredients:

• Oats: A great source of fiber and help lower cholesterol.
• Apples: Rich in fiber and antioxidants.
• Cinnamon & Nutmeg: Anti-inflammatory and blood-sugar balancing properties.
• Maple Syrup & Applesauce: Natural sweeteners that replace refined sugars.

Unlike store-bought instant oatmeal packs, this recipe is low in processed ingredients and high in flavor and nutrients.

Creative Variations of Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

Want to put a unique twist on your baked oatmeal? Try these ideas:

• Add Crunch: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top before baking.
• Make It Vegan: Use plant-based milk and egg replacers like flax eggs.
• Add Protein: Mix in a scoop of vanilla protein powder or Greek yogurt.
• Fruit Swap: Substitute or combine apples with pears, cranberries, or bananas.
• Indulgent Touch: Add chocolate chips or a caramel drizzle.

Each variation still retains the core magic of Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal, while giving you a fun new flavor profile.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Ideas

Not sure what to serve with this dish? Here are a few ideas:

• Yogurt Parfait: Layer baked oatmeal with Greek yogurt and fresh fruit.
• Nut Butter Drizzle: Almond or peanut butter adds richness and protein.
• Breakfast Board: Add fresh fruit, hard-boiled eggs, and mini muffins for a brunch vibe.
• To-Go Cups: Slice and store in jars for on-the-go breakfasts.

With its soft texture and sweet, spiced flavor, Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal pairs wonderfully with both simple and elaborate breakfast spreads.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Meal prepping? You’re in luck. Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is ideal for making ahead.

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in foil or placed in freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheating: Microwave individual servings for 30-60 seconds. Add a splash of milk if it seems dry.

Meal prep tip: Bake in muffin tins for perfectly portioned oatmeal cups!

Nutritional Breakdown (Approximate per Serving)

• Calories: 210-250
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 8g
• Fat: 5g

These values vary slightly depending on toppings or substitutions, but you can feel confident you’re eating a healthy breakfast.

FAQs About Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

Q1: Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
No, steel-cut oats require a longer cooking time and won’t soften properly in this recipe. Stick with old-fashioned rolled oats.

Q2: Can I make this recipe without eggs?
Yes! Replace each egg with a “flax egg” (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water). Let it sit for 5 minutes before adding.

Q3: What apples are best for baking?
Firm and slightly sweet apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith hold up best in the oven.

Q4: Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely. Just use a 9×13-inch pan and increase baking time slightly (check around 45 minutes).

Q5: Is this gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats.

Q6: Can I add protein to this recipe?
Yes! Add a scoop of protein powder or serve it with Greek yogurt.

Q7: How do I make this more kid-friendly?
Add mini chocolate chips or a bit more maple syrup to sweeten it up. You can also bake it in fun muffin shapes.

Q8: Can I eat this cold?
Definitely! It tastes great both warm and cold.

Conclusion: The Cozy Breakfast You’ll Keep Coming Back To

If you’re searching for a breakfast that checks all the boxes—healthy, delicious, easy to make, meal-prep friendly, and crowd-pleasing—then look no further than Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quiet morning at home or prepping ahead for a busy week, it offers comfort, flavor, and nutrition in every single bite.

So go ahead, bookmark this recipe, get those apples chopped, and treat yourself to a morning meal that feels like a warm hug. Once you make it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

And don’t forget: Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal isn’t just a recipe. It’s a breakfast experience.

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