Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal: The Ultimate Breakfast Recipe

Apple cinnamon baked oatmeal: the breakfast that tastes like dessert but fuels your morning! Imagine waking up to the warm, comforting aroma of baked apples mingling with cinnamon and oats. It’s a symphony of flavors that will entice even the sleepiest of souls out of bed.

Baked oatmeal, a dish with roots in hearty, home-style cooking, has evolved from a simple way to use leftover oats into a beloved breakfast staple. While its exact origins are difficult to pinpoint, similar oat-based puddings and porridges have nourished families for generations across various cultures. The addition of apples and cinnamon elevates this humble dish to something truly special, reminiscent of apple pie but healthy enough for everyday enjoyment.

What makes apple cinnamon baked oatmeal so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of textures – the soft, chewy oats, the tender, slightly tart apples, and the subtle crunch of a perfectly baked top. The warm spices create a cozy and inviting flavor profile that’s both comforting and satisfying. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! You can prepare it ahead of time, making busy weekday mornings a breeze. It’s a delicious and nutritious way to start your day, packed with fiber, vitamins, and the wholesome goodness of oats and fruit. Get ready to experience breakfast bliss!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 cups rolled oats (not instant)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil (or butter)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for topping, optional)
• 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces (for topping, optional)

Preparing the Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial for even baking. Make sure your oven is properly preheated before you even think about putting the oatmeal in!
2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I like to use coconut oil spray, but you can also use butter or any other cooking oil. This prevents the oatmeal from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. If you don’t have a 9×13 inch dish, a similar sized one will work, just adjust the baking time accordingly.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. This includes the rolled oats, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined so that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the oatmeal. This step is important for the flavor and texture of the final product. I find that using a whisk helps to break up any clumps of baking powder or baking soda.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients. This includes the eggs, applesauce, milk, maple syrup, melted coconut oil (or butter), and vanilla extract. Again, make sure everything is well combined. The applesauce adds moisture and a subtle sweetness, while the maple syrup provides a richer flavor than just plain sugar. If you don’t have maple syrup, you can substitute honey or agave nectar.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough oatmeal. You want the ingredients to be just moistened. It’s okay if there are a few lumps.
6. Gently fold in the diced apples, nuts (if using), and raisins or dried cranberries (if using). Make sure the apples are evenly distributed throughout the oatmeal. The nuts and dried fruit add texture and flavor, but they are optional. If you don’t like nuts, you can leave them out. If you don’t have raisins or dried cranberries, you can substitute other dried fruits, such as chopped dates or apricots.

Baking the Oatmeal

1. Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly so that it bakes evenly.
2. If using the brown sugar and butter topping, sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the top of the oatmeal. Then, dot the top with the small pieces of butter. This will create a delicious, caramelized crust on top of the oatmeal. If you’re not using the topping, you can skip this step.
3. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the oatmeal is set and golden brown. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it. You can test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the oatmeal. If it comes out clean, the oatmeal is done. If it comes out with wet batter on it, continue baking for a few more minutes.
4. Let the oatmeal cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow it to set up a bit more.

Serving and Storing

1. Serve warm, plain or with your favorite toppings. Some suggestions include a dollop of Greek yogurt, a drizzle of maple syrup, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The possibilities are endless!
2. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. The oatmeal will become a bit more dense as it sits, but it will still be delicious.
3. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked oatmeal. Cut it into individual portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips and Variations

• For a vegan version, use non-dairy milk, maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey, and replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg).
• To make it gluten-free, ensure that your rolled oats are certified gluten-free.
• Add other fruits, such as blueberries, raspberries, or peaches.
• Experiment with different spices, such as cardamom or allspice.
• Add a protein boost by mixing in a scoop of protein powder to the dry ingredients.
• Make it ahead of time by preparing the oatmeal mixture the night before and storing it in the refrigerator. Bake it in the morning for a quick and easy breakfast.
• If you want a chewier texture, use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats. However, you will need to adjust the baking time accordingly. Steel-cut oats take longer to cook than rolled oats.
• For a richer flavor, use brown butter instead of melted coconut oil or regular butter. To make brown butter, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until the butter is golden brown and has a nutty aroma. Be careful not to burn the butter.
• If you don’t have applesauce, you can substitute mashed banana or pumpkin puree.
• To prevent the apples from sinking to the bottom of the oatmeal, toss them with a tablespoon of flour before adding them to the mixture.

Enjoy your delicious and healthy Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal!

Conclusion:

This apple cinnamon baked oatmeal isn’t just another breakfast recipe; it’s a warm, comforting hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly mornings or a cozy weekend brunch. I truly believe it’s a must-try for anyone looking for a healthy, delicious, and incredibly easy way to start their day. The combination of sweet apples, fragrant cinnamon, and hearty oats creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.

But the best part? It’s so versatile! Feel free to get creative and adapt it to your own preferences. For a richer flavor, try using brown butter instead of regular melted butter. A sprinkle of chopped walnuts or pecans adds a delightful crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, a swirl of peanut butter or almond butter before baking takes it to a whole new level of deliciousness.

And don’t limit yourself to just apples and cinnamon! This baked oatmeal is a fantastic base for all sorts of fruit combinations. Think blueberries and lemon zest for a bright and refreshing twist, or perhaps peaches and ginger for a summery treat. You could even add a handful of chocolate chips for a decadent dessert-like breakfast.

Serving suggestions are endless too! I personally love enjoying a warm slice straight from the oven with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of maple syrup. But it’s also fantastic cold, straight from the fridge, making it a perfect make-ahead breakfast option for busy weekdays. You can even crumble it over yogurt or ice cream for a healthy and flavorful topping.

For a truly special occasion, consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of toasted almonds. It’s a surprisingly elegant dessert that’s sure to impress your guests. Or, if you’re looking for a lighter option, simply top it with fresh berries and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s a simple, wholesome, and incredibly satisfying way to nourish your body and soul. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it’s baking is simply divine!

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of apple cinnamon baked oatmeal. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you try any variations? What were your favorite toppings? Share your photos and comments below. Let’s create a community of baked oatmeal enthusiasts and inspire each other with our culinary creations. I can’t wait to see what you come up with! Happy baking!