Why You’ll Love This Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe

This apple cinnamon baked oatmeal isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and wholesome goodness to your table. Here are just a few reasons why this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen:

• Effortlessly Simple & Quick: This baked oatmeal recipe is incredibly convenient, made entirely in one bowl from start to finish. You’ll be amazed that it takes less than 15 minutes to prep, making it perfect for busy mornings or when you need a delicious meal with minimal fuss.
• Packed with Wholesome Nutrients: Crafted with real, unprocessed ingredients, this recipe is inherently healthy. It features whole-grain oats, a fantastic source of fiber, and includes the added powerhouse of flaxseed meal. Flaxseeds are celebrated for boosting your intake of fiber, protein, and beneficial omega-3 fatty acids, contributing to heart health and sustained energy. This thoughtful combination ensures a breakfast that’s both satisfying and nourishing.
• A Hug in a Bowl: There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting dish to start your day, especially on chilly fall and winter mornings. The fragrant cinnamon, tender baked apples, and hearty oats create a cozy, inviting aroma and a delightful flavor that will make you feel right at home. It’s the perfect antidote to a brisk morning.
• Accommodates Various Dietary Needs: This recipe is wonderfully versatile, catering to common dietary requirements. It’s naturally gluten-free (just ensure you use certified gluten-free oats) and dairy-free. Plus, with a simple substitution, it can easily be made vegan, making it an excellent option for diverse households and gatherings.

Key Ingredient Notes & Smart Substitutions

For a complete list of ingredients and their precise amounts, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card located further down. Below, you’ll find specific notes and helpful substitution tips to ensure your apple cinnamon baked oatmeal turns out perfectly every time.

OATS – For the best texture in baked oatmeal—one that’s satisfyingly chewy and holds together well—old-fashioned or rolled oats are your top choice. Their larger, flatter flakes absorb liquid slowly, preventing a mushy result. If you’re in a pinch, quick-cooking oats can work, but be aware they might yield a slightly softer, more crumbly texture. I do not recommend steel-cut oats for this recipe, as they would require a much longer cooking time and result in a significantly chewier consistency. For those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, always opt for certified gluten-free oats. Brands like One Degree, GF Harvest, and Bob’s Red Mill are reliable options. Remember, while oats are naturally gluten-free, they can be contaminated with gluten during harvesting and processing if not handled separately.

Clean food tip: Many conventional grains, including oats, are unfortunately sprayed with glyphosate—a widely used herbicide that has been linked to increased cancer risk—shortly before harvesting. To minimize your exposure to this chemical, choosing organic oats is highly recommended and offers peace of mind.

APPLES – The type of apple you choose can significantly impact the final flavor and texture of your baked oatmeal. For baking, you want apples that are crisp and sweet, yet firm enough to hold their shape without turning to mush. My personal favorites for this recipe include Honey Crisp, Pink Lady, Fuji, or Gala, as they offer a wonderful balance of sweetness and tartness that caramelizes beautifully. Granny Smith apples are also a fantastic choice, especially if you prefer a slightly tarter undertone that still bakes wonderfully.

APPLE SAUCE – Always opt for unsweetened apple sauce to maintain control over the sweetness level of your baked oatmeal. This allows the natural flavors of the apples and maple syrup to shine without being overly sugary. While I typically use plain unsweetened apple sauce, an unsweetened cinnamon apple sauce could also add an extra layer of warm spice if you desire.

Clean food tip: Apples are frequently found on the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) highly publicized Dirty Dozen list due to high pesticide residues. To reduce your intake of these chemicals, I strongly recommend using organic apples and organic unsweetened apple sauce whenever possible.

COCONUT OIL – Either refined or unrefined coconut oil can be used in this recipe. Refined coconut oil has a neutral flavor, making it a good choice if you don’t want any coconut taste in your oatmeal. Unrefined (virgin) coconut oil retains a subtle coconut flavor that can complement the other ingredients beautifully. If you don’t need this recipe to be dairy-free, feel free to substitute with an equal amount of melted unsalted butter for a rich, traditional flavor.

PURE MAPLE SYRUP – For the best flavor and natural sweetness, it’s crucial to use pure maple syrup. Avoid artificial pancake syrups, which are often loaded with high-fructose corn syrup and artificial flavors. Pure maple syrup offers a depth of flavor that enhances the apple and cinnamon. If maple syrup isn’t available or preferred, you can substitute with an equal amount of honey or coconut sugar (adjusting liquid slightly if using a dry sweetener).

MILK – To keep this recipe dairy-free, I typically use unsweetened almond milk. However, virtually any variation of milk can be used depending on your preference and dietary needs. If you choose a plant-based milk (such as oat, soy, or cashew milk), ensure it is unsweetened and plain to avoid unwanted flavors or added sugars that could alter the recipe’s balance.

Clean food tip: When selecting dairy-free milk, always opt for an unsweetened, plain variety. Take a moment to check the ingredient list and prioritize brands that contain minimal ingredients—ideally just the main source (e.g., almonds), water, and perhaps a touch of salt. Try to steer clear of milks that include gums, stabilizers, and other additives, which can sometimes cause digestive discomfort for sensitive individuals. If using cow’s milk, I highly recommend organic whole milk for its superior nutritional profile and avoidance of synthetic hormones and antibiotics.

How to Make This Easy Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

Creating this delicious apple cinnamon baked oatmeal is incredibly straightforward, requiring just a few simple steps. You’ll be enjoying a warm, comforting breakfast in no time!

Step 1: Combine All Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, add all the wet and dry ingredients. This includes the rolled oats, ground flaxseeds, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, baking powder, chopped apples, applesauce, egg, milk of choice, pure maple syrup, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil. Mix everything thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the oats are evenly coated. Don’t overmix; just ensure everything is incorporated.

Step 2: Bake to Perfection. Pour the oatmeal mixture evenly into an 8×8 or 9×9-inch square baking dish that has been lightly greased to prevent sticking. If you wish, you can reserve a few apple pieces to sprinkle over the top before baking for a pretty presentation. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are beautifully golden brown and the center feels set and firm to the touch. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean.

Once baked, allow the apple cinnamon baked oatmeal to cool slightly in the dish before slicing into individual servings and enjoying. This cooling period helps it to set properly and makes for cleaner cuts. These baked oats are not only perfect for a fresh breakfast but also ideal for meal prep, as leftovers taste just as wonderful the next day or even later in the week!

Delicious Serving Suggestions for Your Baked Oatmeal

This versatile apple cinnamon baked oatmeal can be enjoyed in so many creative ways, making it suitable for any meal or occasion. Here are some delightful ideas to elevate your experience:

• Quick & Nutritious Breakfast: For those busy mornings, prepare this baked oatmeal ahead of time. Simply warm up a slice (or enjoy it cold!) and serve it alongside a hard-boiled egg for added protein and a handful of fresh berries or sliced banana. This combination creates a well-rounded, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying breakfast that fuels your day.
• Decadent Topping Ideas: Transform your baked oatmeal into an even more indulgent treat with various toppings. Drizzle generously with your favorite creamy nut butter—almond butter, cashew butter, or peanut butter all pair wonderfully. A little extra pure maple syrup can add a touch more sweetness, or for a truly luxurious morning dessert, add a dollop of fluffy homemade coconut whipped cream (or traditional whipped cream if not dairy-free). A sprinkle of chopped nuts or seeds can add a lovely crunch!
• Elevate Your Brunch Spread: Turn this humble baked oatmeal into a star component of a larger brunch spread. It pairs beautifully with savory dishes, creating a balanced and exciting menu. Consider serving it alongside a fluffy dairy-free vegetable frittata, crispy roasted Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes, and flavorful smashed potatoes cooked in the air fryer. Don’t forget a side of fresh fruit salad and a mimosa for the ultimate brunch experience!

⭐Expert Tips & Notes for Perfect Baked Oatmeal

Achieving the perfect apple cinnamon baked oatmeal is simple with these expert tips and notes:

If you’re aiming for a vegan version of these delicious baked oats, it’s an easy adjustment! Simply replace the single egg with an additional ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce. The applesauce will provide a similar binding and moisture to the egg. Just be sure that you are also using a dairy-free milk alternative, as suggested in the ingredient notes, to keep the entire recipe plant-based.

For the ideal texture, it’s highly recommended to use rolled oats or old-fashioned oats rather than quick-cooking oats. Rolled oats provide a satisfyingly chewy texture that holds up well during baking, giving the oatmeal a delightful cake-like consistency. While quick-cooking oats can be used if you’re truly in a pinch, they will result in a slightly mushier texture and may reduce the baking time slightly. I do not recommend using steel-cut oats for this recipe, as their dense nature requires a much longer cooking time and would result in a very chewy, almost al dente, final product that isn’t ideal for this style of baked oatmeal.

Experiment with these flavorful add-ins to customize and jazz up your apple cinnamon baked oats! For an extra burst of autumn spice, try adding an additional ½ teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice blend to the dry ingredients. You can also mix in ½ cup of dried cranberries or chopped raisins for a touch of sweetness and chewiness. For a delightful crunch and added healthy fats, incorporate ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans. If you’re a chocolate lover, a handful of mini chocolate chips (dairy-free if needed) makes a wonderful addition. Chia seeds can also be added for an extra boost of fiber and omega-3s, helping to thicken the mixture slightly.

This baked oatmeal is absolutely fantastic for meal prep. You can bake a full batch ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply heat individual serving sizes in the microwave for roughly 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through. Alternatively, for even fresher prep, you can assemble the dry ingredients (including the chopped apples) in one bowl and the wet ingredients in a separate bowl the night before. Store both in the fridge, and in the morning, simply combine them in your baking dish, stir, and bake as directed. This minimal morning effort yields a delicious, warm breakfast with hardly any fuss!

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