This baked apple cinnamon oatmeal is a warm and cozy dish that makes breakfast a treat! With sweet apples and a hint of cinnamon, it’s perfect for chilly mornings.
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just mix the oats, apples, and spices, then bake. It fills the house with a yummy smell and makes me feel all comfy inside. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats give this recipe a wonderful chewy texture. Quick oats can work, but they’ll make it more mushy. For a gluten-free option, look for certified gluten-free oats!
Milk: Use any milk you prefer! Almond, oat, or coconut milk are great plant-based options. I usually pick almond milk for its slight nutty taste.
Apple: A sweet apple like Fuji or Honeycrisp is perfect here. If you’re looking for a tart kick, Granny Smith works too. If apples aren’t handy, you can sub them with pears or even mashed bananas for a different twist!
Maple Syrup or Honey: While I love the flavor of maple syrup, honey is a great alternative. Just keep in mind that honey is sweeter, so you might want to use a bit less.
Spices: Ground cinnamon is essential, but feel free to mix in nutmeg or ground cloves for an extra spice punch. I sometimes add a sprinkle of cardamom for something different!
How Do You Get Perfectly Baked Oatmeal?
Baking oatmeal may seem tricky, but a few steps can help you nail it. You want a perfect balance of moist and set! Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Preheat your oven properly. This ensures even cooking.
- Grease your baking dish to prevent sticking. A little butter or non-stick spray goes a long way.
- Mix ingredients gently. Over-mixing can make the oats dense.
- Keep an eye on baking time. Check around the 30-minute mark; the oatmeal should puff up and look solid.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. It continues to firm up as it cools!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have a delicious baked apple cinnamon oatmeal that everyone will love! Enjoy your cozy breakfast! 😊
How to Make Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ cups rolled oats
- 1 ½ cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 large apple, peeled, cored, and diced (about 1 cup)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Optional: a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves for extra spice
- Optional for topping: chopped nuts or raisins
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious baked apple cinnamon oatmeal takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then 35-40 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’ll need about 50 minutes to enjoy this warm, comforting breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Trust me, this step is vital to get your oatmeal perfectly baked! Lightly grease a small baking dish that’s about 8×8 inches, or you can use individual ramekins for single servings—so cute!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, salt, and any optional spices like nutmeg or ground cloves you want to add. This mix not only packs flavor but also gives your oatmeal that warm aroma!
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, beat the egg. Add the milk, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract. Mix everything well until it’s nice and smooth—this is the creamy base for your oats!
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as you want it to stay fluffy!
5. Add the Apples:
Next, fold in most of the diced apple pieces, saving a few for topping later. You want to make sure every bite of your oatmeal has a lovely little apple surprise!
6. Pour and Spread:
Pour your oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Place the reserved apple pieces right on top for a beautiful finish!
7. Bake It:
Pop the dish in the oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oatmeal is set. Your kitchen will smell heavenly at this point!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to slice and serve. If desired, drizzle a bit more maple syrup over the top or sprinkle some chopped nuts or raisins for that extra crunch!
9. Enjoy Your Breakfast:
Serve warm and enjoy this comforting baked apple cinnamon oatmeal that’s sure to brighten your morning! It’s delicious on its own but can also be paired with yogurt or more fruit.
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but be aware that they may make the oatmeal a bit mushier. Rolled oats provide a better texture and chewiness, so if you have them, they’re the preferred choice!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Just substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use plant-based milk as you already plan to. Maple syrup is often vegan-friendly, but confirm it’s pure and not mixed with honey.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through!
Can I Add Other Fruits or Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other fruits like pears or berries, or even nuts and seeds for added crunch. Just be mindful of the moisture, as too much can affect the texture!
