Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the magic of apple cinnamon baked oatmeal! This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly morning—it’s cozy, hearty, and just bursting with flavor. I remember the first time I made it; the sweet scent of cinnamon and apples wafted through my kitchen and drew my family in like bees to honey. It’s become a beloved staple in our home, especially on those lazy Sunday mornings when we want something comforting yet nourishing. Plus, it’s so simple to whip up! You can prep it in no time and let the oven do its thing while you sip coffee and enjoy a little quiet time. Trust me, you’ll want this recipe in your breakfast rotation!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 cups milk
- 2 apples, diced (I love using Granny Smith for that tartness!)
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (or your favorite nuts!)
How to Prepare Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal
Alright, let’s get baking! This apple cinnamon baked oatmeal is super simple to prepare, so you’ll have a delicious breakfast ready in no time. First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial because you want that oven nice and hot when it’s time to bake!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats and milk. Stir them together until the oats are fully soaked up. This will create a creamy base for your baked goodness!
- Next, add in the diced apples, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Give it a good mix to make sure everything is well incorporated. The smell at this point is just heavenly!
- In another bowl, beat the eggs until they’re nice and frothy, then stir in the vanilla extract. This adds a lovely depth of flavor. Pour this egg mixture into the oat mixture and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix—just a gentle fold will do!
- Now, it’s time to fold in the chopped walnuts. They add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender oats and juicy apples.
- Pour the whole mixture into a greased baking dish. I like to use a 9×9 inch dish, but you can use whatever you have on hand. Spread it out evenly.
- Finally, pop it in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the center is set. Let it cool for a few minutes before digging in—trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Nutritional Information
Now, I want to give you a heads-up about the nutritional information for this apple cinnamon baked oatmeal. Keep in mind that values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just a ballpark! Typically, a serving has around 250 calories, with about 8g of fat (1g saturated), 10g of sugar, and 8g of protein. You’ll also get around 40g of carbohydrates and 5g of fiber per serving. It’s a wholesome way to start your day, but always feel free to adjust the ingredients to fit your dietary needs. Happy eating!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy mornings!
- Warm, comforting flavors of apple and cinnamon that feel like a cozy hug.
- Healthy ingredients that keep you fueled for the day ahead.
- Customizable with your favorite nuts or fruits for a personal touch.
- Leftovers make for a delicious snack or breakfast throughout the week.
Tips for Success
Okay, let’s make sure your apple cinnamon baked oatmeal is a total hit! Here are some of my favorite tips to help you nail this recipe:
- Use old-fashioned rolled oats: They give the best texture and will hold up beautifully during baking. Instant oats just won’t cut it here!
- Don’t skip the soaking: Make sure the oats soak in the milk for a bit before you mix everything together. This helps them cook evenly and become super creamy.
- Adjust sweetness to your taste: If you love your oatmeal a bit sweeter, feel free to add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar or even drizzle some maple syrup on top before serving!
- Experiment with spices: If you’re a spice lover like me, try adding a dash of nutmeg or ginger for an extra flavor kick. It’ll elevate your baked oatmeal to a whole new level!
- Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your oatmeal during the last few minutes of baking. It should be set in the middle and golden on top—no one wants a soggy center!
- Let it rest: After baking, let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set up a bit more and makes it easier to slice into squares.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress everyone with your delicious baked oatmeal! Enjoy every bite!
Variations
Let’s get creative with your apple cinnamon baked oatmeal! The beauty of this recipe is that it’s super versatile, so feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or what flavors you’re craving. Here are some of my favorite variations:
- Berry Delight: Swap out the apples for a mix of fresh or frozen berries like blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries. They’ll add a lovely burst of flavor and a pop of color!
- Nutty Banana: Replace the apples with mashed ripe bananas for a naturally sweet touch. You could even add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or almonds for an extra crunch.
- Spiced Pumpkin: For a fall-inspired twist, stir in some pumpkin puree and a teaspoon of pumpkin spice instead of the cinnamon. It’s like a cozy autumn hug in a bowl!
- Chocolate Chip Heaven: If you’re in the mood for something a little sweeter, add a handful of chocolate chips to the mix. They’ll melt into gooey goodness as it bakes—pure bliss!
- Peachy Keen: Fresh or canned peaches can be a delightful addition. Just chop them up and toss them in for a summery flavor that’s absolutely delicious.
- Maple Pecan: Drizzle in some maple syrup and toss in chopped pecans for a sweet and nutty vibe. The maple flavor pairs perfectly with the oats and will make your kitchen smell divine!
Don’t hesitate to experiment! The sky’s the limit, and you might just stumble upon your new favorite flavor combination. Happy baking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No problem! To store your apple cinnamon baked oatmeal, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 5 days—perfect for easy breakfasts throughout the week!
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just pop a portion in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds until warmed through. If you prefer a little crispness, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. A drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt on top makes it even better! Enjoy every delicious bite!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying your apple cinnamon baked oatmeal, the possibilities are endless! Here are some delightful ideas to elevate your breakfast experience:
- Yogurt Topping: A dollop of Greek yogurt or your favorite yogurt adds a creamy tang and a boost of protein. It pairs perfectly with the warm oatmeal!
- Fresh Fruit: Serve it alongside slices of fresh fruit like bananas, berries, or more apples for a refreshing contrast. It adds a lovely pop of color and flavor!
- Nut Butter: Spread a bit of almond or peanut butter on top for a nutty kick. It’s a delicious way to amp up the healthy fats and keep you satisfied!
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: A drizzle of maple syrup over the baked oatmeal brings out the sweetness and enhances those cozy flavors. Trust me, you can’t go wrong with this!
- Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some extra chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and nutrition. They add that perfect textural contrast!
- Chia Seeds: For a nutritional boost, sprinkle some chia seeds over the top. They’re packed with fiber and omega-3 fatty acids and give a nice little crunch!
Mix and match these serving suggestions to find your perfect combination. Whether you want something creamy, fruity, or nutty, these additions will take your apple cinnamon baked oatmeal to the next level. Enjoy your delightful breakfast feast!
Print
Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal: 7 Uplifting Variations to Try
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A warm and hearty breakfast featuring oats, apples, and cinnamon baked to perfection.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 cups milk
- 2 apples, diced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix oats, milk, diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs and add vanilla extract.
- Combine the egg mixture with the oat mixture.
- Stir in the chopped walnuts.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until set and golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Can be served warm or cold.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Top with yogurt or additional apples if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: apple cinnamon baked oatmeal