Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake

There’s something magical about waking up to the smell of cinnamon and baked apples drifting through the house on a cool morning.

This Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake has become one of those recipes I turn to again and again, especially when I want to feel like I’ve got my life together before the sun even comes up. I first made this dish on a chilly October Sunday when both girls were home for the weekend, and I wanted breakfast to feel special without standing over the stove flipping pancakes for an hour.

The beauty of this apple cinnamon oatmeal bake is that you can prep it the night before, slide it in the oven in the morning, and have a warm, nourishing breakfast that tastes like a hug from the inside out.

It’s hearty, naturally sweet, and fills your kitchen with the kind of warmth that makes everyone wander in asking, “What smells so good?” This baked oatmeal with apples and cinnamon has become a staple in our home, and I have a feeling it’ll find a cozy spot in yours too.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake

This recipe checks all the boxes for a comforting, no-fuss breakfast that still feels homemade and special. First off, this Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake is incredibly easy to prepare. You simply mix everything in one bowl, pour it into a baking dish, and let the oven do the work. It’s perfect for busy mornings, lazy weekends, or when you have guests staying over and want to serve something impressive without the stress.

What I absolutely love about this apple cinnamon baked oatmeal is how wholesome it is. You’re getting whole grain oats, fresh apples, warm spices, and just enough natural sweetness to make it feel like a treat. It keeps you full for hours, which is a blessing when you’ve got a packed day ahead. Plus, this recipe is endlessly adaptable—you can make it dairy-free, swap the sweeteners, add nuts, or throw in whatever fruit you have on hand.

Another reason this cinnamon apple oatmeal bake wins hearts? It serves a crowd. One pan feeds your whole family, and leftovers reheat beautifully throughout the week. Honestly, it’s become my secret weapon for stress-free mornings, and I think it’ll quickly become yours too.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for this Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake is wonderfully simple, and chances are you already have most of these staples in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to make this cozy, comforting breakfast:

The apples are really the star of this baked apple cinnamon oatmeal. I typically use Granny Smith or Honeycrisp because they hold their shape beautifully and offer a nice balance of tart and sweet. The cinnamon brings all those cozy fall flavors together, making every bite taste like autumn in the mountains.

Substitutions & Variations

One of my favorite things about this Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake is how forgiving and flexible it is. You can truly make it your own based on what you have or what your family loves.

If you need a dairy-free apple cinnamon oatmeal bake, simply swap the regular milk for almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. I’ve done this countless times, and it works perfectly. For the butter, use coconut oil or your favorite plant-based butter.

Want to change up the sweetness? You can use brown sugar, coconut sugar, or even mashed banana in place of the maple syrup. Each option gives a slightly different flavor, but all are delicious in this cinnamon baked oatmeal with apples.

Feel free to add mix-ins like raisins, dried cranberries, chocolate chips, or shredded coconut. Sometimes I’ll toss in a handful of blueberries along with the apples for a fun twist. You can also sprinkle the top with a little brown sugar and extra cinnamon before baking for a slightly crispy, caramelized crust.

If you’re a texture person, try adding a crumble topping made from oats, butter, and brown sugar. It turns this apple cinnamon oatmeal bake into something that feels almost like dessert for breakfast—and I’m completely okay with that.

If you’re looking to elevate your breakfast experience, consider pairing this dish with a refreshing drink. Check out The Ultimate Apple Cider Sangria: Your New Favorite Fall Cocktail for a delightful complement to your meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake is as easy as it gets. Let me walk you through it step by step, just like we’re in the kitchen together.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish. I like to use a little butter or nonstick spray to make cleanup easier.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Give it a good stir so the spices are evenly distributed throughout the dry ingredients.

Step 3: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, maple syrup, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Whisk until everything is smooth and well combined. This wet mixture is what makes the baked oatmeal come together beautifully.

Step 4: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Then fold in the diced apples and nuts if you’re using them. The apples will release a little juice as they bake, which makes the whole dish extra moist and flavorful.

Step 5: Pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. You can sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top if you want that gorgeous speckled look.

Step 6: Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set. You’ll know this Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake is done when a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out mostly clean and the edges are just starting to pull away from the sides of the dish.

Step 7: Let it cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. Serve it warm with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of yogurt, or a splash of milk. Every bite is cozy, satisfying, and full of that comforting apple-cinnamon goodness.

Pro Tips for Success

Here are a few little tricks I’ve learned over the years to make sure your Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake turns out perfectly every single time.

First, don’t skip the baking powder. It gives the oatmeal a lighter, fluffier texture instead of being dense or gummy. Trust me, it makes a difference in this baked apple oatmeal.

Use old-fashioned rolled oats, not instant oats. Instant oats turn mushy when baked, and you’ll lose that wonderful hearty texture that makes this dish so satisfying.

If you like your apples extra soft, you can sauté them in a little butter and cinnamon for a few minutes before folding them into the batter. This also intensifies the apple flavor and makes your kitchen smell absolutely heavenly.

Want to meal prep? You can assemble this cinnamon apple baked oatmeal the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it’s starting cold.

Finally, don’t be afraid to taste and adjust. If you like things sweeter, add a little more syrup. If you love cinnamon as much as I do, go ahead and add an extra half teaspoon. This recipe is yours to make your own.

To ensure your Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake turns out perfectly, it’s essential to follow a few key tips. For more insights on enhancing your cooking, explore Apple Cider Vinegar: Health Benefits, Uses, and Expert Advice.

Storage & Reheating Tips

This Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake stores beautifully, which is one of the reasons I make it so often. Once it’s completely cooled, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer individual portions into airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to five days.

To reheat, simply microwave individual servings for about 60 to 90 seconds, or until warmed through. You can also reheat the entire dish in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent it from drying out.

If you want to freeze this baked oatmeal with apples and cinnamon, cut it into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as usual. It’s like having a homemade breakfast waiting for you on the busiest mornings.

What to Serve With This Recipe

This Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a few simple sides if you’re feeding a crowd or want to make brunch feel extra special.

I love serving it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a spoonful of whipped cream for a little extra richness. A drizzle of almond butter or peanut butter adds protein and makes it even more filling.

For a complete breakfast spread, serve this cinnamon apple oatmeal bake alongside scrambled eggs, turkey sausage, or crispy bacon. The savory and sweet combo is always a hit at our table.

Fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas also complement this dish perfectly. And of course, a hot cup of coffee or a mug of spiced apple cider is the perfect finishing touch to a cozy autumn morning.

This dish is not only filling on its own but also pairs wonderfully with various sides. For a cozy addition to your breakfast spread, try The Best Homemade Apple Cider Recipe for a Cozy Fall Day.

FAQs

Can I make Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire dish the night before, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed since it’s cold from the fridge.

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

I don’t recommend it. Quick oats absorb liquid much faster and can turn mushy when baked. Stick with old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture in this Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake.

What kind of apples work best in baked oatmeal?

Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji apples all work wonderfully. Choose apples that hold their shape when baked and offer a good balance of sweetness and tartness.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be! Just make sure you use certified gluten-free oats. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so it’s an easy swap.

Can I freeze Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake?

Yes! Cut it into individual portions, wrap them tightly, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave or oven.

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake is a delightful dish that combines the wholesome goodness of oats with the sweet and spicy flavors of apples and cinnamon. This comforting breakfast option is not only easy to prepare but also versatile, allowing for various adaptations to suit dietary preferences and tastes, making it a popular choice among health-conscious individuals and families alike.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

This Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake is a wholesome, nourishing way to start your day. It’s filling, naturally sweet, and gives you the energy you need to tackle whatever the morning brings. I hope it becomes a beloved staple in your home, just like it has in mine.

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake

This Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake is a wholesome, nourishing way to start your day. It's filling, naturally sweet, and gives you the energy you need to tackle whatever the morning brings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 8 servings servings

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: American

Calories: 210

Method Notes

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9x9-inch baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, maple syrup, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Fold in the diced apples and nuts if using.
5. Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
6. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
7. Let it cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

Notes

You can prep this dish the night before and refrigerate it. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or the entire dish in the oven. This recipe is adaptable; feel free to substitute ingredients based on your preferences.