Easy Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe
If you are searching for a warm and hearty start to your day, nothing beats the comforting flavors of our Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal. This delightful breakfast bake combines the natural sweetness of fresh apples with fragrant cinnamon (natural) to create a cozy, plant-based dish everyone will love. Easy to prepare and perfect for any morning, this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal brings both delicious taste and nutritious benefits to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A cozy classic: The blend of fresh apples and cinnamon (natural) creates a nostalgic, comforting flavor perfect for chilly mornings.
- Plant-powered nutrition: Made entirely from wholesome plant-based ingredients, this dish fuels your body the right way.
- Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions mean you can whip this up quickly any day of the week.
- Meal prep friendly: Bake once and enjoy leftovers for several days, saving time on busy mornings.
- Customizable comfort: Easily adaptable with your favorite fruits or nuts to match your mood and pantry.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is in its simplicity: just a handful of everyday, natural ingredients that combine for amazing taste and texture. Each component plays a key role in making the bake soft, flavorful, and satisfying.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: Provides a chewy, hearty texture that’s the base of the dish.
- Fresh apples: Adds juiciness and natural sweetness that balances the warm spices.
- Cinnamon (natural): This classic spice infuses the dish with inviting warmth and depth.
- Plant-based milk: Keeps the oatmeal moist and creamy while keeping it plant-powered.
- Maple syrup (natural): A drizzle for subtle sweetness without overpowering the apple flavor.
- Baking powder (natural gelling agent): Gives the oatmeal a slight lift for perfect fluffiness.
- Chia seeds: Adds fiber and texture while helping the bake hold together.
- Vanilla extract (natural): Rounds out the flavors with a smooth, sweet aroma.
Variations for Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal
This Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is incredibly versatile, welcoming your personal twist. Whether you want to switch up the fruits or accommodate dietary needs, these variations will keep breakfast fresh and exciting every time.
- Nutty boost: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and plant-based protein.
- Berry blend: Mix in fresh or frozen blueberries or raspberries to complement the apples.
- Spiced upgrade: Sprinkle in some nutmeg (natural) or ground ginger (natural) for a spicy aroma.
- Seed swap: Substitute chia seeds with flaxseeds for a slightly different texture and omega-3s.
- Maple-free: Use mashed bananas or applesauce for natural sweetness without added syrup.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with plant-based butter or a splash of plant-based oil. This will keep your oatmeal from sticking and ensure easy serving.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, cinnamon (natural), baking powder (natural gelling agent), chia seeds, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to distribute everything evenly.
Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the plant-based milk, maple syrup (natural), and vanilla extract (natural). Peel and chop the fresh apples into bite-size pieces and gently fold them into the wet mix.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry, stirring until fully incorporated. The mixture should be thick but pourable perfect for baking into a soft, satisfying dish.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the oatmeal mixture to your prepared baking dish and smooth out the top evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set but still moist.
Pro Tips for Making Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal
- Choose crisp apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work beautifully for a balance of tartness and sweetness.
- Press firmly: When transferring to your baking dish, press the oatmeal slightly to create a nice, even texture.
- Adjust sweetness: Taste and adjust the maple syrup (natural) amount depending on how sweet your apples are.
- Swap milk types: Oat, almond, or cashew milk each lends a unique creaminess pick your favorite!
- Don’t skip the chia seeds: They help keep the baked oatmeal together and add a pleasing texture.
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon (natural) or chopped smoked turkey slices for a savory contrast, or dollop your favorite plant-based yogurt or a drizzle of pure maple syrup (natural) for added creaminess and sweetness.
Side Dishes
Pair your baked oatmeal with fresh fruit on the side or a steaming cup of herbal tea to complete your cozy breakfast experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the baked oatmeal in individual ramekins with a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds on top for texture. Offering a variety of natural nut butters lets everyone customize their bowl according to personal taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It tastes great chilled or gently reheated.
Freezing
You can freeze individual portions by placing them in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Add a splash of plant-based milk if the baked oatmeal seems dry to restore its soft, creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits besides apples?
Absolutely! Pears, peaches, or even mixed berries all work wonderfully and bring different flavors and textures to your baked oatmeal.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply ensure you use certified gluten-free rolled oats and double-check all ingredient labels.
Can I make this recipe nut-free?
Yes, just substitute any nut-based milk with oat or rice milk and avoid adding nuts or use seeds instead.
How long does Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal keep?
Stored in the fridge, this baked oatmeal stays fresh for about 4 days. For longer storage, freezing individual portions is an excellent option.
Can I prepare this recipe the night before?
Yes, you can mix the ingredients the night before and bake fresh in the morning, or bake it ahead of time and simply reheat for a quick breakfast.
Final Thoughts
Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is such a satisfying and comforting way to start your day with wholesome goodness. With simple ingredients and heartwarming flavors, it’s bound to become a breakfast staple you look forward to enjoying. Try it this weekend and savor the cozy, delicious moments this recipe brings to your morning table.
Related Posts
- Protein Biscuits with Smoked Turkey and Cheddar Cheese to Try Now
- Irresistible Onion Chive Biscuits with Parmesan Cheese
- Easy Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwich Ideas
Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free, Plant-Based
Description
Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is a warm and hearty plant-based breakfast that combines fresh apples and natural cinnamon for a cozy, delicious start to your day. Easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite fruits or nuts, this bake is perfect for meal prep and offers wholesome nutrition in every bite.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon (natural)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (natural gelling agent)
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups plant-based milk
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (natural)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (natural)
- 2 cups fresh apples, peeled and chopped into bite-size pieces
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with plant-based butter or a splash of plant-based oil to prevent sticking and ease serving.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, cinnamon (natural), baking powder (natural gelling agent), chia seeds, and salt. Stir thoroughly to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the plant-based milk, maple syrup (natural), and vanilla extract (natural). Fold in the fresh chopped apples gently into the wet mixture.
- Combine Everything: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until fully incorporated. The mixture will be thick but pourable, ideal for baking into a soft and satisfying dish.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes until the top is golden and the center is set yet moist.
Notes
- Choose crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a balanced tartness and sweetness.
- Press the mixture firmly into the baking dish for an even texture.
- Adjust maple syrup (natural) to taste depending on apple sweetness.
- Swap plant-based milk types between oat, almond, or cashew for preferred creaminess.
- Do not omit chia seeds; they add fiber, texture, and help the bake hold together.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/6 of recipe)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 11 g
- Sodium: 110 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: apple cinnamon baked oatmeal, plant-based breakfast, baked oatmeal, gluten-free oatmeal, healthy breakfast, meal prep oatmeal
