Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal: A Cozy Fall Breakfast Favorite

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like waking up to the comforting aroma of cinnamon, apples, and oats baking in the oven. This Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal is a warm, hearty breakfast that’s perfect for chilly mornings, especially in the fall when apples are at their peak. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients and sweet, spiced flavor that tastes like dessert but fuels you like a power breakfast.

This recipe has become a Sunday staple in my house. I love prepping a batch to enjoy throughout the week—it reheats beautifully and keeps me full and satisfied all morning long. Whether you’re serving it for a leisurely brunch or a grab-and-go breakfast, this oatmeal bake delivers both comfort and nourishment in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Key Benefits

This baked oatmeal recipe checks all the right boxes

• Meal prep friendly – Make once, eat all week
• Easy to make – Minimal prep time and no special equipment needed
• Kid-approved – Sweet, cinnamon-y, and full of apples
• Budget-friendly – Made with pantry staples and seasonal fruit
• Customizable – Easy to adapt for different dietary needs and flavor preferences

Taste & Texture

Expect warm apple pie vibes with every spoonful. The oats bake into a lightly chewy, soft base that holds the sweet chunks of apples perfectly. Hints of nutmeg and cinnamon infuse each bite with cozy spice, while melted butter adds richness. The top gets a slight golden crust, and the inside stays soft and custardy—like a mashup of oatmeal, bread pudding, and fall dessert.

Dietary Attributes

This recipe is naturally vegetarian, and it can be adapted to fit several diets. Use certified gluten-free oats for a gluten-free version. Swap in a dairy-free milk and plant-based butter to make it dairy-free. You can also reduce or replace the sugar to keep it refined sugar-free.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredient List

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 cup diced honeycrisp apples (about 1–2 apples)
• 2 cups milk (any variety: dairy or plant-based)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

Notes on Quality

Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture. Quick oats may make the bake too soft or mushy. Honeycrisp apples are my favorite for this recipe because they stay slightly crisp when baked and have a natural sweetness, but any firm and sweet apple will do—think Fuji, Gala, or Pink Lady.

Fresh apples are ideal, but if you’re in a pinch, frozen apple chunks can be used (just thaw and drain them first). For spices, fresher is better. Cinnamon and nutmeg lose their punch over time, so check your spice cabinet for freshness.

Possible Substitutions

No chia seeds? You can leave them out or swap for ground flaxseed.
To make it dairy-free, use almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk, and a plant-based butter alternative.
If you’re out of brown sugar, try coconut sugar or maple syrup (just reduce the milk slightly if using a liquid sweetener).

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F and lightly grease a 9×9 or 8×8-inch baking pan with butter or nonstick spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, chia seeds, cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar, salt, and diced apples. Stir to distribute the spices and apple chunks evenly.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry mixture and stir to combine. Add the melted butter and mix until everything is fully incorporated.
5. Transfer the oatmeal mixture to the greased baking pan and spread it out evenly.
6. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is slightly golden.
7. Let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm on its own or with toppings like nut butter, chopped walnuts, a splash of milk, or extra cinnamon.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Best Practices

Let the bake rest for a few minutes before slicing to help it hold its shape. This also gives the flavors a moment to meld together. Dice the apples fairly small so they distribute well and soften fully during baking.

If you want extra richness, drizzle a little maple syrup or cream over the top when serving.

Common Mistakes

Avoid overbaking—if you go too far, the oatmeal can dry out. Keep an eye on the center; it should be just set but still a little soft.

Don’t skip the salt. It’s a small amount, but it really helps balance the sweetness and brings out the flavor of the spices and apples.

Time-Saving Tips

Dice your apples the night before and store them in the fridge with a little lemon juice to prevent browning. You can also mix the dry ingredients ahead of time and combine everything quickly in the morning.

To make this a grab-and-go option, bake the oatmeal in a muffin tin instead of a square pan. Just reduce the bake time to about 25–30 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Pairings

Serve with Greek yogurt for a protein boost, or alongside scrambled eggs for a full breakfast. For a brunch spread, pair it with a savory option like these Cheesy Crescent Roll Garlic Knots.

Presentation Ideas

Top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dusting of cinnamon just before serving. A drizzle of maple syrup or a few toasted pecans make it look even more inviting. You can also serve it in ramekins for a more elegant individual presentation.

Beverage Pairings

Coffee or chai latte pair beautifully with the spiced flavors of this dish. If you’re going caffeine-free, warm apple cider or almond milk with a dash of cinnamon make great choices.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Storage

Let the oatmeal cool completely before storing. Cover the baking dish with foil or transfer portions to airtight containers. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days. It also freezes well—just wrap individual squares tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Methods

To reheat, microwave individual portions for about 1 minute, adding a splash of milk if needed. You can also reheat in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes. Frozen pieces can be thawed overnight in the fridge or reheated directly in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Substitutions & Adjustments

Can I make this without eggs?
Yes! Replace the eggs with two flax eggs (2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 5 tablespoons water). Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken before using.

Can I double the recipe?
Definitely—just use a 9×13-inch pan and increase the baking time to 55–60 minutes.

Can I use steel-cut oats?
Not for this recipe, as they need more liquid and a longer cooking time. Stick to rolled oats for best results.

Troubleshooting

Why is my oatmeal too dry?
This usually means it was overbaked or there wasn’t enough liquid. Check your measurements, and don’t bake beyond the recommended time.

Why didn’t it set?
It may need a few more minutes in the oven, or your oven temperature might be a bit low. Use a thermometer if you’re unsure, and aim for 325°F.

Variations & Customizations

Dietary Adaptations

Make it vegan by using flax eggs, plant-based milk, and vegan butter. To make it lower in sugar, cut the brown sugar to 2 tablespoons and add more cinnamon for extra flavor.

Flavor Twists

Add a handful of raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped walnuts for texture and flavor. A dash of ground ginger or allspice can take the spice profile up a notch.

You can also mix in ¼ cup of applesauce or mashed banana to add moisture and natural sweetness.

Seasonal/Holiday Versions

In winter, try adding cranberries and orange zest. For the holidays, top with crushed candied pecans and a drizzle of maple glaze for a festive twist.

Conclusion

This Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal is pure fall comfort in a pan. It’s easy, wholesome, and makes mornings feel extra special. Whether you’re cozying up on a chilly morning or feeding a hungry brunch crowd, this recipe is guaranteed to bring warmth and satisfaction.

If you give it a try, let me know how it turned out! I love seeing your creations, so don’t forget to tag me or leave a comment. And if you’re looking for more delicious treats, check out these cozy fall favorites:

• Dark Chocolate Berry Bark – No Bake Dessert
• Cheesy Crescent Roll Garlic Knots
• Easy Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels

For more recipe inspiration, follow along on Pinterest at
https://www.pinterest.com/recipescookingwithcallie/
Let’s keep the cozy flavors coming all season long.

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