Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats

Name: Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 2 cups milk (or non-dairy alternative); 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 2 apples, peeled and chopped; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional); 1/2 tsp salt

Highlighted under: Homemade Baking Collection

I absolutely love starting my day with a warm and comforting bowl of Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats. This recipe combines the wholesome goodness of oats with sweet, tender apples and fragrant cinnamon, creating a delightful breakfast that's not only filling but also packed with flavor. In just 30 minutes, I can prep and bake this delicious dish, ensuring a nutritious start to my morning. Whether I’m enjoying it solo or sharing it with family, this baked oats recipe always hits the spot and keeps everyone satisfied until lunch.

Created by

Rosamund Blake

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:08:34.943Z

When I first made Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to create a dish that felt so indulgent. The combination of sautéed apples and warm spices filled my kitchen with a delightful aroma, setting the perfect tone for breakfast. I found that baking the oats gives them a wonderful texture that a simple bowl of oatmeal just can't achieve.

One specific tip I discovered is to let the mixture sit for a few minutes before placing it in the oven. This allows the oats to soak in the milk mixture, resulting in extremely creamy and flavorful baked oats. Now, it’s a recipe I often return to!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Sweet and tangy apples combined with warm cinnamon
Perfectly baked texture that's crunchy on top and soft inside
Healthy and hearty breakfast to fuel your day

Ingredient Insights

The star ingredients in this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats are, of course, the apples and oats. Apples not only infuse the dish with natural sweetness but also provide moisture, preventing the oats from drying out during baking. I recommend using a tart variety, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, to balance the sweetness of the maple syrup. Each bite will be enriched with the subtle burst of flavored apple chunks.

Rolled oats are preferred in this recipe because they cook faster and yield a creamier texture than steel-cut oats. Their hearty nature makes them a filling option while ensuring the final bake retains a soft interior with a slightly crispy top. If you're gluten-sensitive, ensure you select certified gluten-free oats to enjoy this wholesome meal without any concern.

Technique Tips

When mixing the wet ingredients into the dry, be careful not to over-mix. The goal is to combine them until just incorporated to avoid dense baked oats. A gentle folding motion helps maintain the lightness of the dish, allowing for that perfect balance of textures—soft in the center and a bit crunchy on the top.

Choosing the right baking dish can also affect your results. A glass casserole dish allows you to visually gauge the baking process, while metal pans can lead to crispier edges. Whichever you choose, ensure it is well-greased to prevent sticking and achieve an evenly baked outcome.

Storage and Serving Ideas

This Apple Cinnamon Baked Oats dish is incredibly versatile in terms of serving. While delightful on its own, you can elevate it with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of additional maple syrup for added richness. For a comforting touch, serve it warm with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon on top or even some melted nut butter for added protein.

If you prepare a batch in advance, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave for a minute or two, or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also freeze individual portions; just ensure they are cooled completely before placing them in freezer-safe containers. Thaw and reheat when you're ready for a quick breakfast.

Ingredients

For the Oats

2 cups rolled oats
2 cups milk (or non-dairy alternative)
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 apples, peeled and chopped
1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
1/2 tsp salt

Mix all the ingredients well to ensure everything is incorporated.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

Combine Ingredients

Add milk and maple syrup to the dry ingredients, mixing until well combined. Then, fold in the chopped apples and nuts if using.

Bake

Pour the oat mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, potentially with a splash of milk on top.

Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a dash of nutmeg or ginger. You can also substitute fruits like pears or bananas based on your preference.

Troubleshooting

If your baked oats turn out drier than expected, consider increasing the milk next time by a quarter cup, as the oats can absorb varying amounts of moisture depending on their freshness and brand. Keeping an eye on your bake during the last few minutes can help you pull it out as soon as the tops are golden brown, avoiding any dryness.

Another common issue can be uneven baking. If you notice the edges are browning too quickly, you can tent the dish with foil while baking to help disperse the heat more evenly without sacrificing crusty texture.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to experiment with different fruits well-suited for baking, such as pears or berries, which can add a lovely twist to the flavor profile. You could also swap out the walnuts or pecans with pumpkin seeds or almonds for a nut-free variation or even to introduce new textures. A handful of raisins or cranberries can provide bursts of tartness while enhancing the overall sweetness.

For a spicier version, adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger can elevate those fall flavors, making a delightful breakfast dish that feels festive year-round. Alternatively, to make it chocolatey, folding in some dark chocolate chips along with the apples can satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping the oats nutritious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just use certified gluten-free rolled oats.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the baked oats?

Absolutely! Just let it cool completely, then wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.

→ What can I use instead of maple syrup?

You can substitute honey, agave nectar, or brown sugar as alternatives.