Cinnamon Apple Baked Oatmeal

Warm, cozy, and filled with comforting fall flavors, this Cinnamon Apple Baked Oatmeal is the perfect make-ahead breakfast for busy mornings. Tender baked oats, sweet apples, and plenty of cinnamon come together in one hearty dish that tastes like a homemade apple crisp for breakfast. It’s wholesome, filling, and easy to customize with your favorite nuts or add-ins. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or serving brunch for family and friends, this baked oatmeal delivers soft texture, sweet cinnamon flavor, and plenty of comforting goodness in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy make-ahead breakfast option
• Warm cinnamon apple flavor in every bite
• Great for meal prep and freezer-friendly
• Naturally filling and satisfying
• Simple pantry ingredients
• Perfect for cozy fall mornings

Ingredients Needed

Oatmeal Base

• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

• 2 large eggs
• 1 3/4 cups milk
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Apples & Toppings

• 2 apples, peeled and diced
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• Extra cinnamon for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, maple syrup, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Stir the wet ingredients into the oat mixture until fully combined. Fold in the diced apples.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
6. Sprinkle chopped nuts and extra cinnamon over the top if desired.
7. Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden brown and set in the center.
8. Let cool slightly before serving warm.

Tips for Success

• Use old-fashioned oats for the best texture
• Dice apples evenly so they cook consistently
• Let the oatmeal rest for a few minutes before slicing
• Use sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji for extra flavor
• Add extra milk when reheating for a softer texture
• Don’t overbake or the oatmeal can dry out

Variations & Substitutions

• Swap apples for pears or peaches
• Add raisins or dried cranberries
• Use almond milk or oat milk instead of dairy milk
• Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch
• Add a drizzle of peanut butter before serving
• Use brown sugar instead of maple syrup if preferred

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with extra maple syrup
• Top with vanilla yogurt or whipped cream
• Pair with fresh fruit for breakfast
• Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or tea
• Add chopped nuts for extra crunch

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover baked oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave with a splash of milk to keep the texture soft and moist. You can also freeze slices tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make baked oatmeal ahead of time?

Yes. This recipe is perfect for meal prep and reheats beautifully.

What apples work best?

Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, or Pink Lady apples work well because they stay tender while baking.

Can I use quick oats?

You can, but the texture will be softer than using rolled oats.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes. Freeze individual slices for easy grab-and-go breakfasts.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes. Use plant-based milk and dairy-free butter.

How do I keep baked oatmeal moist?

Avoid overbaking and add a splash of milk when reheating leftovers.

platehacks

Cinnamon Apple Baked Oatmeal

Warm, cozy, and filled with comforting fall flavors, this Cinnamon Apple Baked Oatmeal is a make-ahead breakfast that tastes like apple crisp in oatmeal form. Soft baked oats, sweet apples, and warm cinnamon come together in a hearty dish perfect for busy mornings or weekend brunch.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Breakfast, Brunch

Cuisine: American

Calories: 340

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 3/4 cups milk
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 apples, peeled and diced
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Equipment

• 8×8-inch baking dish
• mixing bowls
• whisk
• spatula
• measuring cups and spoons

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, maple syrup, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Stir the wet ingredients into the oat mixture until fully combined. Fold in the diced apples.
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
6. Sprinkle chopped nuts and extra cinnamon over the top if desired.
7. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until golden brown and set in the center.
8. Let cool slightly before serving warm.

Notes

Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture and avoid overbaking to keep the oatmeal moist. Sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji work best. Add a splash of milk when reheating to restore softness. This recipe is great for meal prep and can be frozen in individual portions.