Warm Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal to Try Today
If you’re looking for a heartwarming breakfast that wraps you in cozy flavors, Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is your new best friend. This dish combines the natural sweetness of fresh apples with the comforting spice of cinnamon, all tucked into a warm, satisfying baked good that’s both nutritious and delicious. It’s perfect for starting your day on a bright note or sharing with loved ones during a relaxed weekend brunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Warm and comforting: The combination of apples and cinnamon creates a soothing, nostalgic flavor perfect for chilly mornings.
- Nutritious start: Packed with fiber-rich oats and fresh fruit, it fuels your morning with sustained energy.
- Easy to customize: Swap ingredients or add nuts and spices to make it uniquely yours every time.
- Make-ahead friendly: Bake it in advance and enjoy hassle-free breakfasts all week long.
- Plant-based goodness: Uses wholesome, natural ingredients that fit great with a variety of diets.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal recipe relies on simple yet essential ingredients that bring out fantastic textures, flavors, and aromas. Each item is chosen to balance healthiness with indulgence, making every bite unforgettable.
- Rolled oats: Provides hearty texture and fiber, forming the base of the dish.
- Fresh apples: Adds sweetness and a crisp, juicy bite to the oatmeal.
- Cinnamon (natural): Infuses warmth and spice that perfectly complements apples.
- Maple syrup (natural): Introduces a subtle, natural sweetness enhancing the flavor without overwhelming.
- Plant-based milk: Moistens the oats and binds ingredients while contributing creaminess.
- Baking powder: Helps the oatmeal rise slightly for a light yet filling texture.
- Natural gelling agent: Ensures the oatmeal stands together beautifully after baking.
- Vanilla extract (natural): Adds depth and a sweet aroma to the dish.
- A pinch of sea salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Variations for Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal
Feel free to make this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal truly your own by mixing and matching flavors or catering it to your dietary needs. The recipe is forgiving and versatile, making customization an absolute joy.
- Nutty twist: Add chopped walnuts or almonds for crunch and a richer flavor dimension.
- Extra fruit boost: Stir in raisins or chopped dates to add natural sweetness and chewiness.
- Spice it up: Incorporate nutmeg or cardamom (natural) alongside cinnamon for a more complex spice profile.
- Chocolate lover’s dream: Mix in dairy-free chocolate chips for an indulgent touch.
- Blueberry apple combo: Blend fresh or frozen blueberries with apples for a fruity variety.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Peel and dice fresh apples into bite-sized pieces, tossing them with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a little maple syrup (natural) to infuse flavor right from the start.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon (natural), and a pinch of sea salt. Whisk together to distribute everything evenly.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, blend plant-based milk, maple syrup (natural), vanilla extract (natural), and the natural gelling agent. Whisk until smooth and well integrated.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix and stir until just combined. Fold in the seasoned diced apples carefully to keep the texture intact.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and smooth the top evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and set but still moist.
Pro Tips for Making Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal
- Use tart apples: Granny Smith or similar varieties add a nice balance of tartness to the sweetness.
- Don’t overmix: Stir the batter gently to keep the oats tender and avoid a dense texture.
- Soak oats beforehand: For an even creamier texture, soak the oats in plant-based milk for 15 minutes before baking.
- Add spices gradually: Adjust cinnamon and other spices to suit your taste preferences while mixing.
- Test doneness: Insert a toothpick to check if the oatmeal is fully baked moist crumbs are perfect.
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal
Garnishes
Top your warm Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal with a generous sprinkle of chopped nuts, a drizzle of maple syrup (natural), or a dollop of coconut yogurt (plant-based) to enhance both texture and flavor.
Side Dishes
Enjoy alongside a fresh berry salad, toasted whole-grain bread, or even a refreshing glass of grape juice to keep the meal balanced and nourishing.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the oatmeal in cute ramekins for individual portions or layer it with plant-based yogurt and fruit in a transparent jar for a pretty breakfast parfait-style presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The oatmeal firms up nicely but stays tasty when reheated.
Freezing
Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to three months. This is perfect for busy mornings when convenience is key.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of plant-based milk if needed to restore creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
Steel-cut oats have a denser texture and require longer cooking times, so they are not ideal for this baked oatmeal recipe, which is designed for rolled oats.
Is it possible to make this recipe nut-free?
Absolutely! Simply omit any nuts in the variations and garnishes. The basic recipe contains no nuts and remains delicious and satisfying.
What’s the best type of apples to use?
Tart apples like Granny Smith or Fuji work wonderfully because their acidity balances the sweetness and holds their shape well during baking.
Can I prepare this recipe the night before?
Yes, mixing the ingredients and refrigerating overnight allows flavors to meld and saves time in the morning; just bake as directed when ready.
How sweet is the Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal?
This recipe offers a natural sweetness from fresh apples and maple syrup (natural), perfectly balanced with warm spices, but you can adjust the sweetness to taste.
Final Thoughts
Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple to prepare, nourishing, and endlessly adaptable, making it an ideal breakfast or snack. I hope you enjoy trying this recipe as much as I do it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen for those cozy mornings and special gatherings.
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Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Plant-based
Description
Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is a warm and comforting breakfast dish combining fresh apples and cinnamon in a nutritious baked oatmeal. This plant-based recipe is easy to customize, make ahead, and perfect for cozy mornings or relaxed brunches.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
- 2 fresh apples, peeled and diced
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon (natural)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (natural)
- 1 1/2 cups plant-based milk
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (natural)
- 1 pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Peel and dice fresh apples into bite-sized pieces. Toss them with a sprinkle of cinnamon (natural) and a little maple syrup (natural) to infuse flavor right from the start.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon (natural), and a pinch of sea salt. Whisk together to distribute everything evenly.
- Combine the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, blend plant-based milk, maple syrup (natural), vanilla extract (natural), and the natural gelling agent. Whisk until smooth and well integrated.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix and stir until just combined. Fold in the seasoned diced apples carefully to keep the texture intact.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and smooth the top evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and set but still moist.
Notes
- Use tart apples such as Granny Smith or Fuji for a nice balance of tartness and sweetness.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the oats tender and avoid a dense texture.
- Soak oats in plant-based milk for 15 minutes before baking for an even creamier texture.
- Add cinnamon and other spices gradually to suit your taste preferences.
- Check doneness by inserting a toothpick; moist crumbs indicate it is perfectly baked.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: apple cinnamon baked oatmeal, plant-based breakfast, healthy oatmeal, baked oats, cozy breakfast
