Cozy Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe

Warm up your mornings with this delicious Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal made with cozy spices and plant-based ingredients for a wholesome start. This comforting breakfast combines tender baked oats with the natural sweetness of fresh apples and fragrant cinnamon, delivering a delightful texture and irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen with happiness. Perfect for busy weekdays or relaxed weekend brunches, this hearty dish keeps you satisfied and energized without any fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples that come together effortlessly for a nourishing breakfast.
• Comfort in Every Bite: The warm cinnamon and sweet apples create a cozy flavor profile that feels like a warm hug.
• Plant-Based Goodness: Made entirely with plant-based ingredients, making it suitable for many dietary preferences.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Easy to prepare in advance, perfect for busy mornings or meal prepping.
• Customizable: Easily adjusted with your favorite nuts, fruits, or spices to keep things exciting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal are surprisingly simple but essential for building flavor, texture, and that beautiful golden color. Each component adds its own touch to create a balanced and satisfying meal.

• Rolled Oats: The base of the dish, providing chewy texture and hearty nutrition.
• Fresh Apples: Adds natural sweetness and moisture, plus a lovely hint of tartness.
• Cinnamon (natural): The star spice that brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
• Baking Powder: Ensures the oatmeal rises slightly and has a soft, light crumb.
• Maple Syrup (natural): A plant-based sweetener that complements the apples perfectly.
• Almond Milk (plant-based): For a creamy consistency while keeping it dairy-free.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire Sauce (natural): Just a touch for a subtle savory balance.
• Natural Gelling Agent: Helps bind everything together while maintaining a soft texture.
• Vanilla Extract (natural): Adds a fragrant sweetness to round out the flavors.
• Chopped Walnuts: Optional, for crunch and healthy fats.

Variations for Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

This Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is incredibly versatile, making it easy to swap or add ingredients according to what you love or what you have on hand. Feel free to get creative and put your own spin on this classic.

• Berry Boost: Stir in fresh blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist and extra antioxidants.
• Nutty Delight: Use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts to change up the crunch and flavor.
• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger to enhance the spice profile beyond cinnamon.
• Chocolate Chip: Mix in dairy-free chocolate chips for a touch of indulgence brightening up every bite.
• Banana Sweetness: Replace some of the apple with ripe mashed banana for a creamier texture and natural sweetness.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish or line it with parchment paper to make cleanup easier and prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon (natural), and a pinch of salt. Whisk these together to distribute spices evenly so every bite has consistent flavor.

Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together almond milk (plant-based), maple syrup (natural), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), vanilla extract (natural), and natural gelling agent until fully blended and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Apples and Mixtures

Chop fresh apples into bite-sized pieces. Add half to the dry oat mixture to coat lightly, then pour the wet ingredients over everything. Stir well until the oats are fully soaked and the apple pieces are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish and Add Toppings

Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle chopped walnuts or your choice of nuts on top for added texture and a nutty aroma.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Set

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden and the oatmeal is set in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Cool Slightly and Serve

Let the baked oatmeal cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the texture firm up and makes it easier to serve.

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

• Use Crisp Apples: Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Fuji to maintain a nice texture after baking.
• Don’t Overmix: Stir just until combined to keep a light, tender crumb and avoid dense oatmeal.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the batter before baking and add more maple syrup if you prefer it sweeter.
• Oil for Moisture: Add a splash of mild vegetable oil if you want a richer, moister texture.
• Double the Batch: Great for meal prepping since leftovers reheat beautifully throughout the week.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

Garnishes

Top with a dollop of plant-based yogurt or a drizzle of almond butter for extra creaminess and flavor contrast. A sprinkle of cinnamon (natural) or a handful of fresh berries also brightens the presentation.

Side Dishes

Pair with seasonal fruit on the side or a glass of chilled grape juice for a refreshing complement. A cup of herbal tea or warm spiced apple cider vinegar makes a soothing companion for chilly mornings.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering baked oatmeal with plant-based yogurt and fruit in a glass parfait for a fun twist, or cut into squares and serve warm with a scoop of plant-based ice cream for a comforting dessert-style treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It keeps well and maintains its flavor and texture beautifully.

Freezing

Cut baked oatmeal into individual portions and freeze them in freezer-safe containers or bags. They can be frozen for up to 3 months and thawed overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm gently in the oven until heated through. Adding a splash of plant-based milk can help restore a soft, moist texture while warming.

FAQs

Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?

Steel-cut oats have a chewier texture and longer cooking time, so they are not ideal for this baked oatmeal recipe, which relies on quicker-cooking rolled oats for the perfect tender crumb.

Is there a way to make this recipe sugar-free?

Absolutely! Simply omit the maple syrup and rely on the natural sweetness of the apples and vanilla extract. You can also add mashed banana or a few chopped dates for extra natural sweetness.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes, just be sure to use certified gluten-free rolled oats to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive diets while preserving the intended texture and flavor.

What can I substitute for almond milk?

Any plant-based milk like oat, soy, or coconut milk works well here depending on your preference, each adding its own subtle note to the baked oatmeal.

How can I make this recipe nut-free?

Simply skip the walnuts or other nuts, or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for crunch without nuts.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is the perfect way to start your day with warmth and wholesome flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping or making a special weekend breakfast, this easy recipe will fill your kitchen with inviting aromas and your belly with cozy comfort. Give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes one of your favorite go-to breakfast dishes.

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