Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is the epitome of wholesome comfort. With the naturally sweet flavor of apples combined with the warm aroma of cinnamon, every bite offers a cozy, soul-soothing experience. This breakfast bake is soft and chewy on the inside with a gently golden top perfectly balanced and bursting with comforting fall flavors.

Whether you’re prepping breakfast for a busy week or baking something warm for a slow weekend brunch, this recipe fits the bill. It’s incredibly adaptable swap in pears, berries, or even pumpkin, and make it vegan by using flax eggs and plant-based milk. With its simplicity and nourishing ingredients, this baked oatmeal recipe is sure to become a staple in your morning routine.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 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

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch or similar-sized baking dish.

2. In a large bowl, combine oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.

3. In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, maple syrup, vanilla, and melted butter.

4. Stir the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until well combined.

5. Fold in the diced apples and optional nuts.

6. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

7. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden and set in the center.

8. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 260 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is one of those heartwarming recipes that combines both comfort and nutrition in every bite. Popular among families and health-conscious foodies alike, this dish is more than just breakfast—it’s a nourishing ritual that invites warmth and simplicity into your kitchen. Whether you’re making it on a crisp autumn morning or batch-prepping for the week ahead, this recipe brings together the sweet-tart flavor of apples and the warm spice of cinnamon in a way that’s both satisfying and deeply nostalgic.

A Touch of Tradition: Where the Recipe Comes From

The origins of baked oatmeal can be traced back to Amish and Pennsylvania Dutch communities, where simple ingredients and hearty breakfasts were foundational to daily life. Unlike stovetop oatmeal, which is often soft and porridge-like, baked oatmeal is firmer, sliceable, and ideal for make-ahead meals. Apple and cinnamon have always been a classic combination, often featured in pies, crisps, and cakes, but in this version, they’re transformed into a wholesome breakfast dish that’s filling without being heavy.

This recipe borrows the essence of apple pie and infuses it into a nourishing oat base—bringing that nostalgic, spiced aroma to your breakfast table without the guilt of sugary pastries.

Why This Baked Oatmeal Stands Out

What makes this apple cinnamon baked oatmeal special is its versatility, nutrition, and ease of preparation. It requires just a handful of pantry staples—rolled oats, milk, eggs, maple syrup or honey, apples, and cinnamon. These ingredients come together quickly in one bowl and bake into a golden, naturally sweetened dish that’s as comforting as it is healthy.

You can enjoy it hot out of the oven or slice it up for the week ahead. It reheats beautifully, making it a go-to for busy mornings or lazy weekend brunches. You can even dress it up with toppings like Greek yogurt, nut butter, extra fruit, or a drizzle of maple syrup for added indulgence.

Health Benefits That Make It a Smart Choice

Baked oatmeal isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients that support your overall well-being. Here’s what makes this dish such a smart addition to your diet:

• Oats are rich in soluble fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which helps lower cholesterol and supports heart health. They also provide long-lasting energy and keep you feeling full.
• Apples add natural sweetness and are a great source of dietary fiber, especially pectin, which supports gut health.
• Cinnamon is known for its antioxidant properties and potential to regulate blood sugar levels.
• Eggs add protein and help bind the oats for a firm, sliceable texture.
• Maple syrup or honey offers a natural sweetening alternative to refined sugar, with trace minerals and a more complex flavor profile.

This recipe can also be easily adapted for different dietary needs—use gluten-free oats for those with gluten sensitivities, swap eggs for flax or chia eggs for a vegan version, and use plant-based milk to keep it dairy-free.

Meal Prep-Friendly and Family-Approved

One of the biggest advantages of baked oatmeal is how well it fits into a meal prep lifestyle. You can make a large batch and refrigerate or freeze individual portions. It reheats quickly in the microwave or oven, making it ideal for families on the go, students, or anyone trying to eat healthier without spending hours in the kitchen every day.

Because of its mild sweetness and soft texture, it’s also a hit with kids. You can sneak in extra nutrition—like ground flax, chia seeds, or even finely shredded carrots or zucchini—without anyone noticing.

Customizable for Every Season

While apple and cinnamon are the stars of this version, baked oatmeal is incredibly flexible. You can easily swap the fruit and spice depending on what’s in season or what you’re craving:

• In spring, try blueberries and lemon zest.
• In summer, go for peaches and vanilla.
• In winter, add cranberries, nutmeg, and orange zest.

The base remains the same, but the variations are endless—this makes it one of those “keeper” recipes you’ll turn to again and again.

Perfect for Gatherings and Holidays

This apple cinnamon baked oatmeal is also a lovely addition to a holiday breakfast or brunch spread. Because it’s easy to make in larger batches and can be served warm or at room temperature, it’s perfect for hosting. Pair it with fresh fruit, yogurt, and coffee for a complete meal that feels indulgent but keeps things balanced.

For Thanksgiving morning, Christmas brunch, or a New Year’s Day breakfast, this dish checks all the boxes—comforting, festive, nutritious, and easy to serve.

Conclusion: A Cozy, Nourishing Start to Any Day

If you’re looking for a breakfast that feels like a warm hug, this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is exactly that. It combines the heartiness of oats with the naturally sweet and comforting flavor of apples and cinnamon, all baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re preparing it for your family, serving it to guests, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of coffee, this dish delivers on both taste and nutrition.

Its make-ahead ease, customizable nature, and family-friendly flavor make it a standout in any kitchen. You can serve it as-is, reheat it throughout the week, or dress it up with your favorite toppings for something a little more decadent. However you enjoy it, this baked oatmeal is a nourishing classic you’ll come back to time and time again.