Baked Oatmeal With Apples And Cinnamon

Name: Baked Oatmeal With Apples And Cinnamon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 cups milk (or almond milk); 1/4 cup maple syrup; 2 large eggs; 2 apples, peeled and chopped; 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Recipes

I absolutely love starting my day with a warm, comforting bowl of baked oatmeal. This Baked Oatmeal with Apples and Cinnamon is my go-to recipe when I want something healthy yet delicious for breakfast. The sweet aroma of cinnamon, along with the tartness of baked apples, fills my kitchen and instantly lifts my spirits. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it also stays fresh for several days, making it perfect for busy mornings. I enjoy customizing it with different nuts and dried fruits, ensuring there’s always something new to savor!

Created by

Lavinia Moore

Last updated on 2026-02-08T01:33:35.929Z

When I first tried baked oatmeal, I was amazed by how it could transform a simple bowl of oats into a hearty breakfast. The combination of apples and cinnamon is classic, but there’s something special about baking it all together. The magic happens when the apples soften, releasing their juices and mingling with the oats. I've found using thick, rolled oats instead of quick oats gives a better texture and keeps it satisfying longer.

I often serve this dish with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of yogurt on top. Another tip I love is to prepare it the night before—just pop it in the oven in the morning for a warm, fresh breakfast that feels indulgent, but is actually quite healthy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Warm, comforting start to your day with a hint of sweetness
Nutritious ingredients keep you fuller for longer
Versatile and customizable with your favorite toppings and mix-ins

Baked Oatmeal Texture and Flavor

The key to achieving the perfect texture in baked oatmeal is balancing the wet and dry ingredients. Rolled oats absorb the moisture from the milk and eggs, creating a creamy base while retaining a pleasant chewiness. The incorporation of apples not only adds moisture but also contributes to the overall flavor profile with their natural sweetness and tartness. For an extra layer of flavor, lightly sautéing the apples in a pan to caramelize them before mixing them into the batter can enhance their sweetness and deepen their flavor.

Cinnamon plays a pivotal role in this recipe, providing warmth and depth. An important point to consider is the freshness of your spices; using freshly ground cinnamon can significantly elevate the taste. If you're feeling adventurous, try mixing in a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to complement the cinnamon's warmth. Remember, the aroma of the baking oatmeal will fill your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that’s irresistible as it bakes.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

This baked oatmeal is highly adaptable, making it easy to cater to different dietary preferences or what you have on hand. For a dairy-free version, almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk can provide a suitable alternative without sacrificing flavor. Additionally, if you want to cut down on sweetness, consider reducing the maple syrup. Likewise, swapping in honey or agave syrup can work well, but adjust the quantity based on your taste and preferred sweetness level.

You can also play with the mix-ins. Instead of walnuts, try pecans, almonds, or a medley of seeds for a different crunch. Fresh berries or chopped bananas can be used in place of apples to create unique flavor combinations. Experimenting with different spices, such as clove or cardamom, can completely transform the dish while still celebrating the comforting essence of baked oatmeal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This baked oatmeal stores incredibly well, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping. To store, allow it to cool completely, then cut it into squares and transfer them to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you want to enjoy it warm, simply pop a square in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until heated through. Adding a splash of milk before microwaving can help regain some of the moisture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the oatmeal squares. After cooling, wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, transfer a square to the refrigerator to thaw overnight or heat it directly from frozen, adding a few extra seconds in the microwave to warm it through without drying it out.

Ingredients

Baked Oatmeal Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups milk (or almond milk)
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 large eggs
2 apples, peeled and chopped
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)

Mix the ingredients well and transfer to a baking dish before baking.

Instructions

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot when you place the oatmeal inside.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the milk, maple syrup, and eggs until smooth.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until fully incorporated. Gently fold in the chopped apples and walnuts.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Grease a baking dish and transfer the oatmeal mixture into it, spreading it evenly.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the mixture is set.

Cool and Serve

Allow to cool slightly before slicing into squares. Serve warm with additional toppings as desired.

Enjoy this delightful baked oatmeal for breakfast or a snack!

Pro Tips

For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of yogurt on top before serving. You can also switch up the fruit based on the season—pears or berries work wonderfully too!

Serving Suggestions

Baked oatmeal can be served in countless ways to suit your mood and preference. I love serving it warm, drizzled with a little additional maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt for creaminess. Fresh fruits on top, such as sliced bananas or berries, can enhance the flavor and add a vibrant twist. Consider serving it alongside a splash of nut milk for an extra boost of nutrition.

For a festive brunch, consider complementing the baked oatmeal with a side of scrambled eggs or a fruit salad. This not only adds variety to the meal but also creates a balanced breakfast that keeps everyone satisfied. Incorporating multiple textures and flavors in your breakfast spread can elevate the entire breakfast experience.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your baked oatmeal comes out too dry, it may be due to overbaking or using too many oats relative to the liquid. Make sure to follow the recipe closely and keep an eye on the baking time; the top should be golden and the edges set but not hard. If you find it lacks moisture, consider adding a splash of milk or a dollop of yogurt when serving to remedy it.

On the flip side, if your oatmeal is too wet, it could be due to insufficient baking time or the addition of very juicy apples. Ensure that the baked oatmeal is cooked until set and not jiggly in the center. If you encounter this issue, next time, try removing excess moisture from fruit or adjusting the baking duration slightly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute the milk with a plant-based milk and replace the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Baked oatmeal can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it perfect for meal prep.

→ Can I freeze baked oatmeal?

Absolutely! Just make sure to wrap individual portions tightly before freezing for up to 2 months.

→ What can I serve with baked oatmeal?

I recommend serving it with fresh fruit, yogurt, syrup, or nuts for extra texture and flavor.