If you’re anything like me and adore warm, cozy breakfasts that feel like a gentle hug from the inside, then this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe is going to become your new go-to. Packed with tender apples, plump raisins, and just the right touch of cinnamon spice, this baked oatmeal blends wholesome oats with comforting fall flavors for a morning treat that fuels your day beautifully. It’s effortless to pull together, perfect for meal prepping, and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that invites everyone to the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that work in harmony to create a dish that’s both hearty and flavorful. Each element plays a vital role—whether adding texture, natural sweetness, or that signature apple-cinnamon warmth.
- 2 cups rolled old-fashioned oats: The foundation of the bake, providing creamy texture and satisfying bite.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Brings that quintessential spice that defines the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the oatmeal rise slightly, giving a lighter texture.
- ½ teaspoon sea salt: Balances sweetness and deepens flavors.
- 2 cups non-dairy milk (unsweetened vanilla almond milk recommended): Adds creaminess and subtle aroma without overpowering.
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce: Naturally sweetens and keeps the oatmeal moist.
- ¼ cup maple syrup: Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness that complements the fruits.
- 1 Tablespoon ground flaxseed: Boosts nutrition and helps bind the mixture for perfect texture.
- 1 Tablespoon coconut oil: Imparts a mild richness and keeps the bake tender.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out flavors with a comforting depth.
- 1 cup diced apple, divided: Provides bursts of juiciness and fresh apple flavor throughout.
- ½ cup raisins: Adds chewy sweetness and beautiful contrast.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While it warms, lightly grease an 8×8 baking dish with a non-stick spray to make sure your baked oatmeal comes out clean and easy to slice after baking.
Step 2: Combine the Dry and Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and sea salt. Next, pour in the almond milk, applesauce, maple syrup, ground flaxseed, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Stir it all gently until fully combined – the mixture will be slightly thick and cozy looking.
Step 3: Fold in Fruits
Now for some fun texture and flavor: fold in the raisins and three-quarters of the diced apples. This spread of fruit throughout the mixture means every bite will have a sweet surprise.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pour the oatmeal mixture into your prepared dish and evenly sprinkle the remaining diced apples on top for a fruity, inviting finish. Bake for about 40 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Once done, let it cool just a bit so it firms up slightly, making it ready to slice and serve.
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a drizzle of almond butter or a splash of almond milk enhances the creamy texture and adds an extra layer of comfort. For a touch of sweetness, a little maple syrup on top never fails to delight.
Side Dishes
This baked oatmeal pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, a dollop of yogurt, or even a side of crispy bacon if you’re looking for a sweet and savory combo to start your morning.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your slices warm in a shallow bowl topped with a swirl of coconut cream and toasted pecans for some crunch. Alternatively, cut into squares and enjoy as handy breakfast bars on busy mornings or pack them for a wholesome snack anytime.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your leftover Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps beautifully for up to four days, ready to warm you up anytime.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe in bulk, freezing individual portions is a fantastic option. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap then foil and freeze for up to two months, perfect for fast breakfasts on busy days.
Reheating
To reheat a whole batch, cover with foil and bake in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes. For single servings, you can use a toaster oven or microwave—5 to 10 minutes in the oven or a quick 60 seconds in the microwave will do the trick and revive that freshly baked warmth.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats in this recipe?
Rolled oats work best for the texture and bake time in this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe. Quick oats tend to get mushy and steel-cut oats need a different approach, so swapping may affect the final result.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes! Using non-dairy milk, maple syrup, and coconut oil keeps this recipe completely vegan, while still packing in plenty of delicious flavor.
Can I add other fruits or nuts?
Absolutely. Feel free to get creative by adding dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, or even a dash of nutmeg or ginger to customize the flavor to your liking.
What can I substitute for flaxseed?
If you don’t have ground flaxseed on hand, chia seeds are a fantastic alternative, or you can simply use one egg if you don’t need to keep it vegan.
How sweet is this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe?
The sweetness is naturally balanced with the maple syrup and fruit, but you can adjust the maple syrup amount up or down depending on your preference for a milder or sweeter taste.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly morning. Whether you’re preparing it for a family breakfast or to fuel your busy week with wholesome goodness, it’s simple, delicious, and bursting with flavors that make you smile. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your favorite breakfasts too!
Print
Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is a comforting and hearty fall breakfast inspired by traditional Amish baked oatmeal. Packed with apples, raisins, and warm cinnamon spice, this recipe offers a wholesome, naturally sweetened start to your day. It’s perfect for meal prep and easily reheated for busy mornings.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled old-fashioned oats
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 cups non-dairy milk (unsweetened vanilla almond milk preferred)
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 1 cup diced apple, divided
- ½ cup raisins
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray an 8×8 inch baking dish with non-stick spray to prepare for the oatmeal mixture.
- Mix dry and wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, cinnamon, baking powder, sea salt, non-dairy milk, applesauce, maple syrup, ground flaxseed, coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Stir well until fully incorporated.
- Add fruit: Fold in the raisins along with ¾ cup of the diced apples to distribute fruit evenly throughout the batter.
- Transfer to baking dish and top: Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of diced apples on top for added texture and flavor.
- Bake the oatmeal: Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Allow the baked oatmeal to cool slightly before serving. You can enhance the serving with a drizzle of almond butter, extra almond milk, or maple syrup according to your preference.
- Storage and reheating: Store leftover baked oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 20 minutes for the whole dish, or reheat individual portions in the oven or toaster oven for 5-10 minutes, or microwave for 1 minute.
Notes
- Oats: Rolled oats are preferred for the right texture and cooking time. Avoid quick oats or steel-cut oats unless following a recipe designed for those.
- Milk: Any non-dairy milk works well. Options include almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk depending on taste and dietary preferences.
- Sweetener substitutions: If maple syrup isn’t available, honey or agave syrup can be used but will slightly change the flavor.
- Flaxseed alternatives: Chia seeds can replace flaxseed, or use 1 egg if not concerned about keeping the recipe vegan.
- Coconut oil swaps: Mild-flavored oils like avocado oil or melted unsalted butter (for non-vegan) work well instead of coconut oil.
- Raisin replacements: Other dried fruits like cranberries or apricots can be used, or nuts such as walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Extra spices: To deepen the flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, allspice, or apple pie spice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American