Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats

Name: Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice); 2 medium apples, peeled and diced; 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey); 1 tablespoon cinnamon; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional); 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Highlighted under: Cozy Collection

I love starting my mornings with a warm and comforting bowl of Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats. This recipe combines hearty oats with the sweetness of tender baked apples and the warm spice of cinnamon, creating a truly delightful dish. Preparing it is easier than you might think, and the aroma that fills the kitchen while it bakes is simply irresistible. It's perfect for meal prep too, allowing me to enjoy a quick, nutritious breakfast throughout the week. Trust me, this is a recipe you'll want to make again and again!

Created by

Elodie March

Last updated on 2026-02-07T22:14:35.366Z

After experimenting with various oatmeal recipes, I found that baking oats not only intensifies the flavors but also gives a wonderful texture that stovetop cooking just can’t achieve. I opted for fresh apples, which add natural sweetness and moisture, balancing perfectly with the warm cinnamon. I also like to sprinkle a few walnuts on top for some crunch and healthy fats. The result is a dish that feels decadent but is still wholesome.

Every bite of these baked oats transports me to cozy autumn mornings. I often like to prepare a batch on Sunday, so I have delicious breakfasts ready for the busy week ahead. One tip I discovered is to let the mixture sit for a few minutes before baking—it enhances the melding of flavors, creating a truly delightful experience with every forkful!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Delicious blend of baked apples and warming cinnamon
Great for meal prep, ensuring healthy breakfasts all week
Comforting and filling, perfect for chilly mornings

Baking to Perfection

Baking time is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats. Aim for a baking duration of around 30 minutes, but keep an eye on the edges. They should appear golden brown and slightly firm to the touch when they're ready. If the center still feels soft or undercooked, you may need to extend the time by an additional 5 to 10 minutes, but check every few minutes to prevent over-baking.

To ensure even cooking, it's essential to spread the oat mixture uniformly in the baking dish. A rubber spatula works great for this. If you notice browning happening too quickly on top, you can tent the dish loosely with aluminum foil for the last 10 minutes to help it cook through without burning.

Ingredient Insights

The choice of apples plays a significant role in this recipe. Opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith. This balance brings a delightful complexity to the dish, enhancing both the sweetness from the maple syrup and the warm notes of cinnamon. For a seasonal twist, try experimenting with different varieties like Fuji or Gala, which also hold up well during baking.

Using unsweetened almond milk is a great option for a dairy-free version, but feel free to substitute it with your favorite milk. Cow's milk or oat milk can enhance creaminess, while coconut milk will add a subtle tropical flavor. Just remember that any substitutions should maintain the same volume to ensure proper moisture levels in the recipe.

Storage and Variations

Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats store wonderfully, making them a practical choice for meal prep. After baking, allow the dish to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for up to three months. For reheating, simply pop it in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds or until warm throughout, adding a splash of milk if it feels a bit dry.

Feel free to customize your baked oats with various mix-ins or toppings. Consider adding dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for additional texture, or sprinkle some cinnamon on top before baking for even more flavor. If you prefer a nut-free version, omit the walnuts, and perhaps top it with seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower instead!

Ingredients

Gather these easy ingredients:

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
2 medium apples, peeled and diced
1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey)
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your baked oats:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with a bit of oil or cooking spray.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, almond milk, diced apples, maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla extract, salt, and baking powder. Stir until well mixed.

Add Nuts

If you're using walnuts, fold them into the mixture for added crunch.

Bake

Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Serve

Let the baked oats cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, perhaps with a drizzle of additional maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt if desired.

Pro Tips

For a flavor twist, try adding dried cranberries or raisins to the mixture. Additionally, you can substitute brown sugar for maple syrup for a deeper sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats can be as versatile as you like. Enjoy it straight out of the dish, perhaps garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or some fresh fruit on top for added texture and visual appeal. A drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt can elevate the dish, making it feel indulgent and breakfast-worthy any day of the week.

For a more complete breakfast, pair it with a protein side such as scrambled eggs or Greek yogurt. This adds staying power and ensures you feel satisfied throughout your morning. Plus, the combination of warm oats and a cool protein side creates a delightful contrast in temperatures on your plate.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake with baked oats is overmixing the ingredients. While it can be tempting to blend everything thoroughly to avoid clumping, too much mixing can lead to a dense texture rather than the light, fluffy consistency you're aiming for. Mix just until the ingredients are combined, and you will achieve the perfect balance.

Another issue could arise from the use of overly ripe apples. While you do want them tender after baking, apples that are too soft might break down completely, leading to a mushier texture than desired. Firm apples will hold their shape better, providing delightful bites of fruit throughout your baked oats.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Just use a plant-based milk alternative and stick to maple syrup for sweetness.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover baked oats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. You can reheat in the microwave.

→ Can I freeze baked oats?

Absolutely! Slice into portions, wrap in plastic wrap or foil, and freeze. Reheat in the oven or microwave from frozen.

→ What can I substitute for apples?

You can use pears, berries, or any other fruit you enjoy. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness depending on the fruit used.