Cozy Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe

Warm up your mornings with easy, flavorful Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal featuring wholesome oats, fresh apples, and cozy spices for a delicious start. This comforting dish combines tender baked oats, naturally sweet apples, and aromatic cinnamon, making breakfast both nutritious and irresistibly tasty. Whether you’re fueling a busy day or want a comforting weekend brunch, this baked oatmeal is guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Wholesome Ingredients: Uses simple, natural ingredients that bring both nutrition and flavor to your bowl.
• Effortless Preparation: Minimal prep means you can enjoy a comforting breakfast without the fuss.
• Versatile Flavors: The classic apple and cinnamon blend creates a cozy combination perfect for any season.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it in advance and have a quick, warm breakfast ready throughout the week.
• Plant-Based and Nourishing: Uses plant-based (dairy/cheese) for creamy texture without compromising on flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, good-for-you ingredients makes this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal so satisfying. Each component plays a part in texture, sweetness, or aroma to create a perfectly balanced dish.

• Rolled Oats: Provides the hearty base with a chewy, comforting texture that holds moisture well.
• Fresh Apples: Adds natural sweetness and a pleasant crispness that softens while baking.
• Cinnamon (natural): Infuses warm, aromatic notes that complement the apples beautifully.
• Maple Syrup (natural): A touch of natural sweetness that enhances the overall flavor depth.
• Plant-Based Milk: Ensures a creamy consistency that soaks into the oats perfectly.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a subtle depth of umami to balance sweetness.
• Baking Powder: Helps the oatmeal rise slightly, creating a light texture.
• Vanilla Extract (natural): Brings a smooth and inviting aroma to tie all the flavors together.
• Chopped Nuts (optional): Adds crunch and healthy fats for extra satisfaction.
• Natural Gelling Agent: Helps bind the oatmeal making each slice hold together beautifully.

Variations for Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

Feel free to get creative with this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal recipe by customizing ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. It’s super easy to make it your own!

• Berry Boost: Swap half the apples for fresh or frozen berries for a tangy twist.
• Nutty Upgrade: Add chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans for more texture and richness.
• Spice Remix: Experiment with cardamom or nutmeg alongside cinnamon for a warm spice blend.
• Extra Creaminess: Use coconut milk instead of plant-based milk for a tropical flair.
• Sweetener Swap: Replace maple syrup (natural) with date syrup or honey for a different sweetness profile.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line a baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the baked oatmeal later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon (natural), and a pinch of salt. Stir thoroughly to distribute the spices and leavening agent evenly.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together plant-based milk, maple syrup (natural), vanilla extract (natural), and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce until smooth. Pour this mixture over the oat mixture and stir well.

Step 4: Fold in Apples and Nuts

Gently fold in the diced fresh apples and optional chopped nuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter for bursts of flavor and texture.

Step 5: Add Natural Gelling Agent

Sprinkle the natural gelling agent over the mixture and mix it in well. This will help create the perfect cozy texture when baked.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until the top is golden and the oatmeal is set but still moist inside.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the baked oatmeal to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm for the best comforting experience.

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

• Use Crisp Apples: Choose firm apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best texture.
• Don’t Overbake: Check at 35 minutes to avoid drying out the oatmeal.
• Customize Sweetness: Adjust maple syrup (natural) up or down depending on your preferred sweetness level.
• Soak Oats Slightly: Let the oat mixture rest for 10 minutes before baking for a smoother texture.
• Add a Squeeze of Lemon: A little lemon juice brightens the apple flavor and prevents browning.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

Garnishes

Top your warm Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal with a dollop of plant-based yogurt, a sprinkle of cinnamon (natural), and a handful of toasted nuts for extra crunch and creaminess.

Side Dishes

Pair this baked oatmeal with fresh fruit salad or a vibrant green smoothie for a complete, balanced breakfast that keeps you energized all morning long.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in individual ramekins for a charming single-serve brunch option, or slice and plate it like a breakfast cake with a drizzle of warm maple syrup (natural) for family-style dining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It keeps well and tastes just as comforting when reheated.

Freezing

Slice into portions and freeze individually wrapped or in a container for up to 3 months. This way, you can have warm, wholesome breakfasts ready any time.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes or warm in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes. Adding a splash of plant-based milk can help refresh the texture.

FAQs

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

Steel-cut oats have a different texture and require longer cooking times, so they are not ideal for this baked oatmeal recipe. Rolled oats absorb liquid better and bake evenly.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, as long as you choose certified gluten-free oats, this recipe can be enjoyed gluten-free without any modifications.

Can I prepare Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal the night before?

Absolutely! You can mix all the ingredients the night before, refrigerate, and bake fresh in the morning for an easy breakfast.

What if I don’t have fresh apples?

Frozen apples or apple sauce can be used in a pinch, but fresh crisp apples give the best texture and flavor.

How do I make the baked oatmeal creamier?

Using a richer plant-based milk, such as oat or almond milk, and adding a little extra liquid can make the baked oatmeal creamier.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is a true comfort food that feels like a warm hug in the morning. Its balance of wholesome oats, fresh apples, and cozy spices will quickly become a staple in your breakfast rotation. Give it a try and enjoy the wonderful flavors and textures that make waking up something to look forward to.

Print