Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats

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Introduction

Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats are the ultimate cozy breakfast or snack that combines wholesome oats with the warm flavors of apple and cinnamon. This dish has a soft, cake-like texture with chunks of tender apple in every bite. Sweetened naturally and filled with healthy ingredients, baked oats are not only nutritious but also feel indulgent. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or treating yourself to a special breakfast, this recipe is a comforting way to start your day.

I remember the first time I made these on a chilly morning, and the entire house smelled like a warm, comforting bakery. The combination of cinnamon and apple creates the perfect balance of sweet and spice, while the oats give it a hearty, satisfying feel. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re doing something good for your body, yet it tastes like a treat.

What’s great about Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats is how versatile it is. You can add nuts for some crunch, drizzle a little honey for extra sweetness, or even top it with a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess. It’s a recipe that’s easy to adjust to your preferences, yet it always delivers that perfect, cozy bite. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weekday or on a lazy weekend morning, this dish is sure to brighten up your day.

Perfect for:

  • A warm and hearty breakfast
  • Meal prepping
  • A healthy dessert option
  • Fall and winter mornings
  • Apple and cinnamon lovers

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats

Here’s why Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats will become a staple in your home:

  • Wholesome and Filling: Made with oats and apples, this dish is packed with fiber and nutrients to keep you full for hours.
  • Naturally Sweetened: The natural sweetness from apples and a touch of maple syrup or honey makes this recipe both healthy and delicious.
  • Warm and Cozy Flavors: Cinnamon and apple create a comforting, fall-inspired flavor that’s perfect any time of the year.
  • Customizable and Versatile: Easily adapt the recipe with different fruits, nuts, or spices to suit your taste.
  • Quick and Easy to Make: Minimal prep and just one dish make this a fuss-free recipe.
  • Meal-Prep Friendly: Make a batch and enjoy a ready-to-go breakfast all week long.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Servings: 4-6
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Fiber: 4g, Protein: 6g, Carbs: 32g, Fat: 5g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats:

  • 2 cups rolled oats
  • 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1½ cups diced apple (about 1 large apple)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or coconut oil, melted
  • ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Rolled Oats: These provide a hearty texture and are a great source of fiber to keep you full.
  • Apples: Choose a crisp and slightly sweet variety like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala for the best flavor.
  • Cinnamon: This spice adds warmth and enhances the natural sweetness of the apples.
  • Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that pairs beautifully with the apple and cinnamon.
  • Nuts (Optional): Add crunch and healthy fats with walnuts or pecans.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats:

Prepare the Baked Oats:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or a similar-sized dish with butter, oil, or non-stick spray.
  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Stir to evenly distribute.
  3. Whisk the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
  4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
  5. Fold in the Apples and Nuts: Gently mix in the diced apples and nuts (if using), ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake:

  1. Pour into the Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oats are set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
  3. Cool Slightly: Let the baked oats cool for 5 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats

Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats can be served in a variety of ways:

  • As-Is: Enjoy a warm slice straight from the oven.
  • With a Drizzle: Add a drizzle of maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness.
  • With Yogurt or Milk: Pair with a dollop of yogurt or a splash of milk for a creamy touch.
  • With Nut Butter: Spread a bit of almond or peanut butter on top for added richness.
  • As Dessert: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a healthy dessert option.

Additional Tips for Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats

  • Choose the Right Apple: Opt for firm, slightly sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji for the best texture. Avoid overly soft varieties.
  • Use Plant-Based Options: For a dairy-free version, use almond milk or oat milk and coconut oil instead of butter.
  • Add Toppings After Baking: For a crunchy topping, sprinkle chopped nuts or granola on top after baking.
  • Reheat Gently: Warm individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds to enjoy leftovers.
  • Adjust Sweetness: Taste the batter before baking and adjust the sweetness with more maple syrup if needed.

Recipe Variations for Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats

Here are 10 fun variations to try:

  1. Banana Apple Baked Oats: Replace half the milk with mashed banana for added natural sweetness.
  2. Apple Cranberry Baked Oats: Add ¼ cup dried cranberries for a tart, chewy contrast.
  3. Caramel Apple Baked Oats: Drizzle caramel sauce over the baked oats before serving.
  4. Apple Raisin Baked Oats: Mix in a handful of raisins for extra sweetness.
  5. Apple Berry Baked Oats: Add ½ cup fresh or frozen berries like blueberries or raspberries.
  6. Nutty Apple Baked Oats: Sprinkle extra walnuts or almonds on top before baking for a crunchy finish.
  7. Spiced Apple Baked Oats: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a deeper spiced flavor.
  8. Chocolate Chip Apple Baked Oats: Fold in a handful of chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
  9. Pumpkin Apple Baked Oats: Replace ¼ cup of milk with pumpkin puree for a fall-inspired version.
  10. Vegan Apple Baked Oats: Use flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute, plant-based milk, and coconut oil.

Freezing and Storage for Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats

  • Freezing: Cut cooled baked oats into portions, wrap them individually, and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Special Equipment for Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats

To make your Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats even easier, use the following tools:

  • Mixing Bowls: For combining wet and dry ingredients.
  • Whisk and Spatula: A whisk for wet ingredients and a spatula for folding in apples.
  • 8×8 Baking Dish: Or any similarly sized oven-safe dish.
  • Oven Thermometer: To ensure accurate baking temperature.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurements.
  • Apple Peeler/Corer: Makes prepping apples quick and easy.

Frequently Asked Questions for Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats

  1. Can I make this recipe vegan?
    Yes! Replace the egg with a flax or chia egg and use plant-based milk and coconut oil.
  2. Can I use quick oats?
    You can, but the texture will be softer and less hearty. Rolled oats work best for this recipe.
  3. Can I make this recipe sugar-free?
    Yes, omit the maple syrup or honey and rely on the natural sweetness of the apples, or add a sugar-free sweetener like stevia.
  4. Can I use steel-cut oats?
    No, steel-cut oats take longer to cook and require more liquid. Stick with rolled oats for this recipe.
  5. What other fruits can I use?
    Pears, peaches, or berries are great substitutes for apples.

Conclusion

Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats are a cozy, nutritious breakfast that will make your mornings feel extra special. With the natural sweetness of apples and the warm, aromatic spice of cinnamon, this dish is both comforting and satisfying. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients, offering a perfect balance of fiber, protein, and essential nutrients to fuel your day.

This recipe is perfect for meal prepping or baking up a batch for a relaxing morning with family. Customize it with your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruit for an extra boost of flavor and texture.

Give it a try and elevate your mornings with a healthy, delicious start! I’d love to see how your Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats turn out. Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see your tasty creations! Happy baking!