If you’re looking for a comforting and nutritious breakfast to warm up your mornings, Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is exactly what you need. This wholesome dish combines hearty oats with sweet apples and cozy spices, creating a delicious start to your day that feels both indulgent and nourishing. Whether you’re meal prepping for busy weekdays or craving a lazy weekend treat, this recipe delivers warmth and flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple ingredients: Made with pantry staples for an easy and fuss-free breakfast.
Wholesome and filling: Oats provide lasting energy and fiber to keep you satisfied.
Delightful flavor: The combination of apple and cinnamon fills your kitchen with inviting aromas.
Customizable: Easily adapted to suit dietary preferences and ingredient availability.
Perfect for meal prep: Bakes ahead beautifully, saving time during busy mornings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal recipe uses a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. From the natural sweetness of fresh apples to the warmth of cinnamon and the hearty bite of rolled oats, every component contributes to its comforting character.

Rolled oats: The base that provides a chewy, wholesome texture and lots of fiber.
Chopped apples: Adds moisture, natural sweetness, and a fresh fruity flavor.
Ground cinnamon (natural): Brings warmth and depth with its signature cozy spice.
Maple syrup (natural): Adds a touch of gentle sweetness without overpowering the dish.
Plant-based milk: Keeps the oatmeal creamy and moist, while making it dairy-free.
Baking powder: Helps the oatmeal rise slightly for a lighter baked texture.
Vanilla extract (natural): Enhances sweetness and complexity with floral notes.
Chia seeds: Acts as a natural gelling agent and adds extra nutrition and texture.
Salt: Balances flavors to keep everything bright and well-rounded.

Variations for Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

One of the best things about this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is how easy it is to customize. Whether you want to swap fruits, add a crunch factor, or infuse a nutty aroma, these variations help you tailor the dish to your taste buds or dietary needs with zero hassle.

Nutty twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch and rich flavor.
Fruit swap: Substitute apples with pears or peaches for a seasonal change.
Spice boost: Mix in a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to elevate the spice profile.
Vegan protein: Stir in plant-based yogurt or mashed bananas for extra creaminess and protein.
Sweetener alternative: Use date syrup or coconut sugar instead of maple syrup for a unique sweetness.

Cozy Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipes

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

Step 1: Preheat and prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a baking dish with a light coating of oil or plant-based butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine dry ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, baking powder, chia seeds, and salt. This dry mixture ensures even distribution of spices and leavening.

Step 3: Mix wet ingredients and apples

In a separate bowl, combine the plant-based milk, maple syrup (natural), vanilla extract (natural), and chopped apples. Stir until the apples are evenly coated and the sweet vanilla aroma fills the air.

Step 4: Bring it all together

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and fold gently until everything is fully incorporated. The chia seeds will start to thicken the batter as it sits.

Step 5: Bake to perfection

Transfer the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly for uniform baking. Place in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and serve

Allow the baked oatmeal to cool slightly before serving. This resting period helps it set and improves the texture, making each spoonful more enjoyable.

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

Oats choice: Use rolled oats for the best texture as quick oats can get too mushy.
Fresh apples: Choose crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith to balance the sweetness.
Chia seeds soak: Let the batter rest for 10 minutes before baking for better thickening.
Adjust sweetness: Taste the wet mixture before baking and add a little more maple syrup (natural) if needed.
Even baking: Place the baking dish on the middle oven rack for uniform heat distribution.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

Garnishes

Top your serving of Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal with fresh apple slices, a sprinkle of cinnamon (natural), or a handful of toasted nuts for extra texture and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Pair this comforting oatmeal with a side of plant-based yogurt or a cup of warm herbal tea to complete your cozy morning ritual.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve portions in individual ramekins or mason jars, layered with spoonfuls of plant-based yogurt and a drizzle of maple syrup (natural) for an elegant, grab-and-go breakfast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This makes it easy to enjoy quick breakfasts throughout the week.

Freezing

Slice the baked oatmeal into portions and freeze in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. Frozen pieces can be reheated directly for convenient meals any time.

Reheating

Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm gently in an oven set to low heat, adding a splash of plant-based milk to refresh the texture if needed.

FAQs

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

Steel-cut oats have a denser texture and require longer cooking times, so they’re not ideal for this baked oatmeal recipe which relies on the softer structure of rolled oats.

How do I make this recipe nut-free?

Simply omit any nuts in the garnish or variation sections, and ensure all ingredients you use are produced in nut-free facilities to avoid cross-contamination.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes! By using plant-based milk and maple syrup (natural), this recipe is completely vegan-friendly and delicious.

Can I add chia seeds to boost nutrition?

Absolutely! Chia seeds not only provide extra nutrients but also act as a natural gelling agent that helps the oatmeal set beautifully.

What’s the best way to store baked oatmeal for meal prep?

Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days, or freeze portions for up to two months for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Nothing feels as comforting and nourishing as starting your day with a warm bowl of Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal. This recipe brings together simple ingredients and cozy spices, making each bite a delightful moment of breakfast bliss. Give it a try and enjoy the wonderful aromas and hearty flavors that will make your mornings something to look forward to every day.

Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

Author: David
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegan

Print Recipe

Description

Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is a comforting and nutritious breakfast combining hearty rolled oats with fresh apples, cozy cinnamon, and natural sweeteners. This dairy-free, plant-based dish is simple to prepare, wholesome, and perfect for meal prep or a lazy weekend treat, offering warmth and flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

1 1/2 cups rolled oats
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (natural)
1 teaspoon baking powder
2 tablespoons chia seeds (natural gelling agent)
1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

2 cups plant-based milk
1/4 cup maple syrup (natural)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (natural)
1 1/2 cups chopped fresh apples

Instructions

Preheat and prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a baking dish with a light coating of oil or plant-based butter to prevent sticking.
Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, ground cinnamon (natural), baking powder, chia seeds (natural gelling agent), and salt. This dry mixture ensures even distribution of spices and leavening.
Mix wet ingredients and apples: In a separate bowl, combine the plant-based milk, maple syrup (natural), vanilla extract (natural), and chopped apples. Stir until the apples are evenly coated and the sweet vanilla aroma fills the air.
Bring it all together: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and fold gently until everything is fully incorporated. The chia seeds will start to thicken the batter as it sits.
Bake to perfection: Transfer the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly for uniform baking. Place in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and serve: Allow the baked oatmeal to cool slightly before serving. This resting period helps it set and improves the texture, making each spoonful more enjoyable.

Notes

Use rolled oats for the best texture as quick oats can become too mushy.
Select crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith to balance the sweetness.
Let the batter rest for 10 minutes before baking for better thickening with chia seeds (natural gelling agent).
Taste the wet mixture before baking and add a little more maple syrup (natural) if needed.
Place the baking dish on the middle oven rack for even heat distribution during baking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American