Baked Oatmeal With Apples And Cinnamon

Name: Baked Oatmeal With Apples And Cinnamon
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 2 cups milk (or dairy-free substitute); 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 large egg; 2 apples (peeled, cored, and diced); 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Golden Cooking

I absolutely love starting my day with a warm bowl of baked oatmeal, especially when it’s infused with the sweet, comforting flavors of apples and cinnamon. This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. I often prepare it on weekends, so I have an easy breakfast option throughout the week. With wholesome oats, juicy apples, and a hint of spice, this baked oatmeal has quickly become a family favorite, and I guarantee it will be for you too!

Created by

Camille Norwood

Last updated on 2026-02-08T08:13:36.296Z

When I first made baked oatmeal with apples and cinnamon, I was pleasantly surprised by how easily it all came together. The combination of rolled oats, fresh apples, and a sprinkle of cinnamon created a wonderful aroma in my kitchen that welcomed my family to the breakfast table. I learned that mixing the oats with the other ingredients beforehand ensures that the flavors meld beautifully as they bake!

One tip I found helpful is to let the dish cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps the oatmeal set up a bit more, making it easier to slice and serve. It’s fantastic on its own or topped with a dollop of yogurt and a drizzle of honey for extra flavor. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Warm and comforting, perfect for chilly mornings
Nutritious and filling, great for meal prep
Customizable with your favorite nuts or dried fruits

Baking Tips for Perfect Oatmeal

To ensure your baked oatmeal turns out perfectly, consider the consistency of your mixture. It should be thick but pourable. If you find it too dry, adding a bit more milk can balance it out. This adjustment not only affects texture but also enhances moisture retention during baking, resulting in a tender, not dry, final dish.

Keeping an eye on your baking time is crucial. Ovens can vary, and while 30 minutes is standard, start checking around the 25-minute mark for doneness. Your baked oatmeal should have a firm top and golden edges. Gently insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when it’s ready.

Customizing Your Baked Oatmeal

The beauty of this baked oatmeal recipe lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with your favorite fruits; pears, bananas, or even berries can be delightful substitutes for apples. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the walnuts or replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for a similar crunch without the allergens.

Another wonderful possibility is to spice it up. While cinnamon is a classic choice here, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a fragrant twist. You could also incorporate chocolate chips or dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for added sweetness and texture, creating endless variations that can suit any palate.

Ingredients

For the Baked Oatmeal

2 cups rolled oats
2 cups milk (or dairy-free substitute)
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 large egg
2 apples (peeled, cored, and diced)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing a baking dish with oil or butter will help keep the oatmeal from sticking.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt, mixing well to ensure even distribution.

Add Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and vanilla extract until blended. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.

Incorporate Apples and Nuts

Fold in the diced apples and chopped walnuts, ensuring they are distributed evenly throughout the mixture.

Bake the Oatmeal

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, let the oatmeal cool for a few minutes before slicing it into squares. Serve warm, topped with yogurt or fresh fruit if desired.

Pro Tips

Experiment with different fruits or spices, such as adding raisins or nutmeg. You can also make this recipe vegan by using flaxseed meal as an egg substitute.

Serving Suggestions

This baked oatmeal can be served with a variety of toppings to elevate the experience. A dollop of Greek yogurt not only adds creaminess but also a protein boost to power you through the morning. Freshly sliced fruits or a drizzle of honey can add brightness and further sweetness, complementing the baked oats beautifully.

To make this dish even more enjoyable, consider serving it with a side of maple syrup or almond butter. A sprinkle of additional cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg just before serving can enhance the warmth of the flavors and create a well-rounded breakfast treat.

Storage and Reheating

If you make a larger batch of baked oatmeal, which is perfect for meal prep, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions. Just be sure to wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag, which will help maintain freshness.

When you're ready to enjoy a slice, the best way to reheat it is in the oven. Simply preheat to 350°F (175°C), place the oatmeal in a baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying out, and heat for about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave it for about 1-2 minutes, but adding a splash of milk can help keep it from becoming rubbery.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this baked oatmeal ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it the night before and store it in the fridge. Just bake it in the morning for fresh servings.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave.

→ Can I freeze baked oatmeal?

Yes, you can freeze it! Cut it into portions, wrap them tightly, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for apples?

You can use any type of fruit you prefer, such as pears, berries, or bananas, for a different flavor.