Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats

Name: Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 2 cups almond milk (unsweetened); 2 medium apples, diced; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Highlighted under: Cozy Collection

I love starting my day with a warm and comforting bowl of Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats. There's something about the combination of tart apples and fragrant cinnamon that makes mornings feel a bit more special. This baked oatmeal is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weekdays or leisurely weekends. I appreciate that I can whip up a big batch and enjoy the leftovers throughout the week, each bite reminding me of cozy autumn mornings.

Created by

Elodie March

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:04:37.878Z

When I first decided to make baked oats, I was hesitant about how the texture would turn out. But after experimenting a bit, I discovered that using a mix of rolled oats and almond milk results in the creamiest base. The key is letting it bake long enough so the oats absorb the flavors of the apples and spices.

My favorite part of this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily adapt it by throwing in nuts or swapping out apples for your favorite seasonal fruits. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, and I love how it fills my home with the sweet smell of cinnamon while it bakes!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Warm, cozy flavors that evoke a sense of home
Healthy and filling breakfast option
Easy to prepare ahead and reheat

Choosing the Right Apples

When it comes to selecting apples for your baked oats, opt for a mix of sweet and tart varieties. Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples provide a beautiful balance of flavors, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. You can also experiment with others like Fuji or Braeburn for a unique twist. Each apple variety brings its own texture, which can impact the outcome of your baked oats. Aim for apples that are firm and crisp to retain their shape during baking.

Dicing the apples into uniform pieces is crucial for even cooking. Small chunks, approximately 1/2 inch, will soften nicely but still maintain some structure, providing delightful bursts of flavor in each bite. If you prefer a smoother texture, consider shredding some of the apples instead. This method not only distributes the apple flavor more evenly throughout the dish but also gives a pleasantly moist texture to the baked oats.

Customizing Your Baked Oats

One of the best aspects of Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats is its versatility. You can easily add a handful of nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch, or even stir in some dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries for added sweetness and texture. For a nut-free version, substitute almond milk with oat or coconut milk. If you want to boost the protein content, consider adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the mixture before baking.

Spicing it up a little can also elevate this dish. Beyond cinnamon, try incorporating nutmeg or a bit of cardamom for a warm, complex flavor profile. For those who enjoy a touch of indulgence, a sprinkle of dark chocolate chips right before baking can take comfort food to another level. Remember to adjust the sweetness with maple syrup accordingly, depending on the added ingredients.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delightful baked breakfast:

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
2 cups almond milk (unsweetened)
2 medium apples, diced
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Mix these well, and get ready to bake!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a scrumptious dish:

Preheat the Oven

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

Combine Ingredients

In a bowl, combine oats, almond milk, diced apples, maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla extract, salt, and baking powder.

Pour into Dish

Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Bake

Bake for 30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the oats are set.

Serve and Enjoy

Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, with extra apple slices, if desired.

Enjoy your delicious baked oats!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in nuts or dried fruits, and feel free to experiment with different spices like nutmeg.

Storage and Reheating Tips

After baking, let the Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you anticipate leftovers, this dish is perfect for meal prep! Just slice into portions and reheat in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds, or until warmed through. You can also add a splash of almond milk before reheating to restore moisture.

For longer storage options, consider freezing the baked oats. Cut into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months with minimal loss in quality. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat as usual.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're feeding a larger crowd or want to make a double batch for later, scaling this recipe is straightforward. Simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish, adjusting the baking time if necessary. A larger pan might require an additional 5-10 minutes of baking to ensure the oats are fully set—you'll know they're done when the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Conversely, if you're cooking for one or two, you can easily halve the recipe and bake it in a smaller dish. Just keep an eye on the oven; it may bake faster, so start checking for doneness around the 20-minute mark. This flexibility allows you to enjoy Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats no matter the occasion or household size.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but the texture will differ; quick oats may become mushier.

→ How long can I store baked oats?

You can store baked oats in the fridge for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze baked oats?

Absolutely! Just make sure to let them cool completely before wrapping in an airtight container.

→ What can I substitute for almond milk?

Any other plant-based milk will work, like oat or coconut milk.