Name: Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp cinnamon; Pinch salt; 1½ cups milk; 2 eggs; ¼ cup maple syrup; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 apple, diced

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re searching for a comforting breakfast that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Recipe is your new best friend. Loaded with tender apples, fragrant cinnamon, and a subtle sweetness from maple syrup, it’s more than just oatmeal — it’s a wholesome start to your day that you can prepare ahead, making busy mornings a breeze. Each spoonful brings that perfect balance of soft baked oats and tender apple chunks, creating a cozy, flavorful dish that feels indulgent yet nourishing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white plate with a lace-like edge holds one square slice of dessert that has three visible layers: the bottom layer is a dense, golden-brown oat mixture with a slightly crumbly texture; the middle layer consists of thin, soft apple slices arranged flat, light yellow with hints of red skin; the top layer is strewn with whole and chopped pecans, offering a rough texture and deep brown color. A woman's hand is about to pick up the slice, and the plate rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully simple but essential for nailing the flavor and texture of this recipe. Each component adds a unique touch, from the warm cinnamon that spices things up to the apples that lend freshness and a delightful bite.

2 cups rolled oats: The hearty base that absorbs all those delicious flavors and holds everything together.
1½ cups milk: Brings creaminess and moisture to the oats, making them wonderfully soft once baked.
2 eggs: Acts as a natural binder, giving this oatmeal a firm, sliceable texture.
¼ cup maple syrup: Adds a gentle sweetness with a hint of caramel that complements the apples perfectly.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its warm, sweet aroma.
1 tsp cinnamon: Provides that classic spicy note that pairs beautifully with baked apples.
1 apple, diced: The star ingredient, offering juicy bursts of flavor and a lovely pop of color.
1 tsp baking powder: Helps the oatmeal rise slightly, giving it a light, tender crumb.
Pinch salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the overall taste.

How to Make Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 375 °F (190 °C). While it heats up, grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with a little butter or non-stick spray. This step is crucial to ensure your baked oatmeal doesn’t stick and comes out in perfect squares.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures that the cinnamon and baking powder are evenly distributed for consistent flavor and texture throughout.

Step 3: Whisk Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. The eggs will lend structure, while the vanilla and maple syrup infuse the mixture with sweet warmth that perfectly complements the spices.

Step 4: Combine and Fold in Apples

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with your dry mix and stir until just combined. Then gently fold in the diced apple pieces, taking care not to overmix so the apples stay intact and juicy.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the oatmeal batter into your prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes until the top is set and golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point is pure magic.

How to Serve Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Recipe

A clear square glass dish holds seven round, rough-textured oatmeal cookies with a golden brown color, showing small chunks of oats and a slightly crumbly surface. A woman's hand is reaching in from the left side, touching one cookie at the bottom left corner of the dish. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While delicious on its own, topping your oatmeal with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of extra maple syrup takes it to the next level. You could also sprinkle some chopped nuts or a few fresh apple slices for added crunch and freshness.

Side Dishes

Pair this baked oatmeal with a side of crispy bacon or sausage for those who like a savory contrast. Alternatively, fresh fruit or a simple green smoothie will keep things light and refreshing, perfect for balancing the warm richness.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests or family, serve the baked oatmeal in individual ramekins topped with whipped cream and a cinnamon stick for that cute café vibe. Alternatively, layering warm oatmeal with yogurt and fruit in a glass creates a beautiful, Instagram-worthy parfait.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover baked apple cinnamon oatmeal covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days—it actually tastes better after the flavors settle overnight!

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully. Slice into portions, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep for up to 3 months, perfect for quick breakfasts down the road.

Reheating

To reheat, simply microwave a slice for about 60 to 90 seconds until warmed through, or reheat in the oven at 350 °F (175 °C) for 10 to 15 minutes. Add a splash of milk before reheating to keep it moist and creamy.

FAQs

Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?

Steel-cut oats have a much firmer texture and take longer to cook, so they are not ideal for this baked oatmeal recipe. Rolled oats absorb the liquid and bake evenly without becoming too chewy.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap the milk with any plant-based alternative like almond, oat, or coconut milk, and it will still turn out creamy and delicious.

Can I add nuts or seeds to this recipe?

Yes, adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds will add a satisfying crunch and boost the nutritional profile. Just sprinkle them on top before baking or fold some into the batter.

How sweet is this baked oatmeal?

This recipe has a gentle sweetness from the maple syrup and apples, so it’s not overpoweringly sweet. You can easily adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup to suit your taste.

Can I prepare this recipe the night before and bake it in the morning?

Definitely! You can mix all the ingredients, cover the pan, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, just bake for the same amount of time; you might need to add a few extra minutes if the mixture is cold.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Recipe is such a heartwarming and fuss-free breakfast that quickly becomes a staple. It brings together wholesome ingredients and cozy flavors that feel both nourishing and indulgent, perfect for setting a positive tone for your day. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—you might just find yourself making it every week!