Baked Oatmeal With Apples And Cinnamon

Name: Baked Oatmeal With Apples And Cinnamon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 2 cups milk (or almond milk); 2 large eggs; 1 cup apples, peeled and chopped; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Healthy Home Classics

I love starting my mornings with a warm and comforting dish, and baked oatmeal with apples and cinnamon has become a favorite in my household. The combination of sweet, tender apples and fragrant cinnamon fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare! I enjoy making a big batch, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This dish not only keeps me full and satisfied but also feels like a big hug on cool mornings. It’s perfect for busy weekdays or cozy weekend brunches.

Created by

Poppy Walsh

Last updated on 2026-02-08T00:49:36.429Z

Making baked oatmeal with apples and cinnamon takes me back to my childhood when my mother would bake it on chilly mornings. I remember the anticipation as I waited for it to come out of the oven, and now I love sharing that experience with my kids. The method is simple: combining rolled oats with milk, eggs, and spices is truly foolproof. I find that letting the oatmeal sit for a few minutes before baking helps the oats absorb the liquid perfectly.

What makes this recipe stand out is the freshness of the apples and the comforting warmth of cinnamon. I always opt for a mix of tart and sweet apples to create a rich flavor profile. Adding a sprinkle of walnuts or pecans not only enhances the nutty taste but also gives it a delightful crunch. This dish is a wholesome and filling breakfast option that I can proudly serve to anyone!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Warm, comforting flavors that create a perfect breakfast
Nutritious and filling, keeping you energized throughout the morning
Easy to customize with your favorite fruits or nuts

Choosing the Right Apples

The choice of apples plays a significant role in the flavor profile of your baked oatmeal. Varieties such as Granny Smith bring a tartness that balances the sweetness of brown sugar, while sweeter apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp lend a more mellow flavor. You may even mix different varieties for a complex taste. Just make sure to peel and chop the apples into uniform pieces so they cook evenly, enhancing that wonderful texture in every bite.

For an added depth of flavor, consider sautéing the chopped apples in a small pan with a bit of butter for 5-7 minutes until they start to soften and caramelize. This will intensify their sweetness and bring out their natural juices, making your baked oatmeal even more delectable.

Customizing Your Oatmeal

One of the best features of baked oatmeal is its adaptability. If you’re not a fan of walnuts, you can easily substitute with pecans or sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. Additionally, dried fruits like cranberries or raisins can be added for extra chew and sweetness. Just remember to reduce the amount of brown sugar slightly if you’re introducing sweeter elements.

You might also experiment by adding a teaspoon of nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor twist. If you’re seeking a gluten-free version, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats. Customizing keeps your baked oatmeal interesting and allows you to use whatever you have on hand.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Once baked, this oatmeal can be refrigerated for up to five days. Cut it into squares, place them in an airtight container, and store them in the fridge. This makes for a quick breakfast option; simply reheat in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds or until warmed through. You can also add a splash of milk before microwaving to restore some of the moisture.

For longer-term storage, baked oatmeal can be frozen for up to three months. Cool completely before wrapping individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat. This is a great way to have a homemade breakfast ready with minimal effort!

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients for a delicious start to your day!

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
2 cups milk (or almond milk)
2 large eggs
1 cup apples, peeled and chopped
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're set to create a wholesome breakfast.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delightful baked oatmeal.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking dish.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the oats, milk, eggs, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, vanilla, and half of the apples. Stir until well combined.

Add Apples

Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and top with the remaining apples and walnuts if using.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes or until set and lightly golden on top.

Cool and Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with additional milk or yogurt if desired.

Enjoy this delicious breakfast dish with your favorite toppings!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in some raisins or cranberries, or even a tablespoon of maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a sweeter touch.

Final Touches

To elevate your baked oatmeal experience, serving it with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt adds a luscious creaminess that complements the dish. Fresh fruits like sliced bananas, berries, or a sprinkle of additional cinnamon can also create delightful garnishes that enhance both presentation and flavor.

If you’d like to give it an even more indulgent treat, consider serving the baked oatmeal with a side of whipped cream or coconut cream. This can transform the dish into a dessert-like brunch option, perfect for special occasions or leisurely weekend mornings.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe scales beautifully if you're cooking for more guests or meal prepping for the week. To double the recipe, simply use a larger baking dish, like a 9x13 inch, and increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it—look for that golden top and a firm edge to know it's perfectly baked.

If you want to halve the recipe, you can bake it in an 8x8 inch dish, reducing the baking time slightly as well. Always check for doneness by inserting a knife in the center—it should come out clean when the oatmeal is fully set.

Questions About Recipes

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

Steel-cut oats can be used, but you will need to cook them longer as they require more liquid and a longer cooking time.

→ Can I prepare this dish the night before?

Yes, you can assemble the ingredients the night before, cover, and store in the refrigerator. Bake it in the morning.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free oats, this recipe can be made gluten-free.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Simply reheat in the microwave before serving.