I make this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats when I want a warm, cozy breakfast that feels comforting yet wholesome. The tender baked apples, maple sweetness, and cinnamon spice blend beautifully with hearty oats to create a soft, sliceable oatmeal bake that works perfectly for busy mornings or relaxed weekend brunch.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon salt
1 ¾ cups milk of choice
2 large eggs
¼ cup pure maple syrup
2 tablespoons melted coconut oil or butter
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 ½ cups diced apples (about 1 large apple)
2 tablespoons chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Directions
I start by preheating my oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing an 8-inch square baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish.
In a large mixing bowl, I combine the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. I stir everything well so the spices are evenly distributed.
In a separate bowl, I whisk together the milk, eggs, maple syrup, melted coconut oil (or butter), and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
I pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir until everything is fully combined.
Next, I gently fold in the diced apples and optional nuts, keeping a small handful aside to sprinkle on top if I want a pretty finish.
I transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. I sprinkle the reserved apples or nuts over the top.
I bake it for 30–35 minutes, until the center is set and the top turns lightly golden.
After removing it from the oven, I let it cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. I enjoy it warm as it is, or I drizzle a little extra maple syrup or add a spoonful of yogurt on top.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories: 280 kcal per serving
Variations
I sometimes swap the apples for pears or mixed berries when I want a different fruit flavor.
If I want extra texture, I add chia seeds or flaxseed to the batter.
For a dairy-free version, I use almond milk or oat milk and choose coconut oil instead of butter.
When I want more crunch, I sprinkle additional nuts or even a handful of granola on top before baking.
If I prefer a sweeter bake, I increase the maple syrup slightly or mix in a few raisins.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover baked oats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
When I reheat a slice, I microwave it for about 30–60 seconds until warmed through. If it feels slightly dry, I add a splash of milk before reheating.
I also freeze individual portions wrapped tightly for up to 2 months. I thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and warm them before serving.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, I often bake it the night before and store it in the refrigerator. I simply reheat individual portions in the morning.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
I prefer rolled oats for texture, but quick oats can work. The final texture will be softer and slightly less structured.
What type of apples work best?
I like using firm apples such as Honeycrisp or Fuji because they hold their shape well during baking.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, I replace the eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk and coconut oil to keep it fully plant-based.
How do I know when it is fully baked?
I check that the center feels set and not jiggly. The top should be lightly golden, and a knife inserted in the center should come out mostly clean.
Conclusion
I find this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats recipe to be the perfect balance of wholesome and comforting. It is easy to prepare, adaptable to my preferences, and ideal for meal prep. Whenever I crave something warm, lightly sweet, and satisfying for breakfast, this baked oatmeal never disappoints.
📖 Recipe:
Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A warm and comforting Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats made with hearty rolled oats, tender baked apples, maple syrup, and cozy spices. Perfect for meal prep or a wholesome breakfast that feels like a treat.
Ingredients
2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon salt
1 ¾ cups milk of choice
2 large eggs
¼ cup pure maple syrup
2 tablespoons melted coconut oil or butter
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 ½ cups diced apples (about 1 large apple)
2 tablespoons chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, maple syrup, melted coconut oil (or butter), and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until fully combined.
- Fold in the diced apples and optional nuts, reserving a small amount for topping if desired.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle reserved apples or nuts on top.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
- Let cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30–60 seconds, adding a splash of milk if needed.
Freeze tightly wrapped portions for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.
Swap apples for pears or berries for variation.
Use plant-based milk and flax eggs for a vegan option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (⅙ of recipe)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
