Name: Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-489297H19M59S
Total time: PT-489297H19M59S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups old-fashioned oats; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 1/2 cups milk (or almond milk for dairy-free); 2 eggs; 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 large apple, diced; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a cozy, wholesome breakfast that feels like a warm hug in every bite, you absolutely must try this Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake Recipe. Bursting with the natural sweetness of fresh apples and the comforting aroma of cinnamon, this bake delivers a perfect balance of tender oats, rich flavors, and a hint of crunch. It’s a one-dish wonder that wakes up your kitchen and your taste buds, making mornings something to truly look forward to. Perfect for busy weekdays or leisurely weekends, this recipe combines simple ingredients into a delightful, nourishing start to your day.

Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the magic of this Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake Recipe comes from a handful of simple yet perfectly chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, whether it’s the hearty oats for texture, the juicy apples for sweetness, or the spices that tie everything together with warmth and depth.

2 cups old-fashioned oats: These rolled oats give the bake its chewy, tender texture while providing heart-healthy fiber and a nutty flavor base.
1 1/2 cups milk (or almond milk for dairy-free): Whether dairy or plant-based, this liquid binds the ingredients and creates a soft, custard-like consistency.
1 large apple, diced: Fresh and crisp, the apples bring natural sweetness and bursts of fruity flavor throughout the bake.
2 eggs: Eggs work as the glue that holds everything together while adding protein and a light, cake-like texture.
1/4 cup maple syrup or honey: This natural sweetness enriches the flavor with warm, caramel notes that beautifully complement the apples.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a subtle aromatic backdrop that enhances all the other flavors without overpowering them.
1 tsp cinnamon: The classic spice that pairs perfectly with apples, infusing the bake with a cozy warmth.
1/2 tsp baking powder: Ensures a light and fluffy texture by gently lifting the bake as it cooks.
1/4 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the overall flavor experience.
1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds a crunchy contrast and a boost of healthy fats and texture to each bite.

How to Make Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This crucial step makes sure your bake cooks evenly right from the start. Prepare an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish by greasing it thoroughly with butter, coconut oil, or a non-stick spray. This helps keep the bake from sticking, making cleanup easy and serving a breeze.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, crack in the two eggs and whisk them vigorously until smooth and slightly frothy – this brings lightness to your bake. Pour in your choice of milk, along with the maple syrup (or honey) and vanilla extract. Whisk everything until fully combined and smooth, making sure the mixture is evenly blended for a consistent texture.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Directly add the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt to your wet ingredients bowl. Stir gently but thoroughly with a spatula or large spoon just until everything is moistened and well incorporated. The trick here is to avoid overmixing, ensuring the oats keep their delightful chew without turning mushy.

Step 4: Fold in the Apples and Nuts

Now for the fun part: gently fold in your diced apples and any nuts you’re using, like walnuts or pecans. Folding means carefully turning the mixture without knocking out all the air you’ve whisked into the eggs. This keeps the bake light and fluffy while distributing apple chunks and crunchy nuts evenly throughout.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour your completed batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer so it cooks uniformly. Place the dish in the center of your preheated oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the top shines golden brown, the edges slightly pull away, and the center feels firm. For extra certainty, a toothpick should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs, but no wet batter.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked, carefully pull your dish out of the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting time lets the bake set perfectly, making slicing effortless. Enjoy it warm for that comforting feel, perfect as a breakfast treat or nourishing snack.

How to Serve Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake Recipe

Garnishes

Top the warm bake with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of extra maple syrup for added creaminess and sweetness. Sprinkle a handful of extra chopped nuts or a dusting of cinnamon to make each serving visually inviting and give you extra layers of texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair this bake with a side of fresh fruit or a warm cup of coffee or tea for a balanced and satisfying breakfast experience. A simple green smoothie or a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice can brighten the plate and complement the warmly spiced oats beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a brunch gathering, serve the Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake Recipe in individual ramekins or mini mason jars for charming, single-serve portions. You might also add a sprinkle of toasted coconut, a drizzle of nut butter, or even swirl in some berry compote for a festive twist that’s sure to wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your fresh bake, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll keep beautifully for up to 3-4 days, making it a superb grab-and-go breakfast option that tastes just as good reheated.

Freezing

You can freeze portions of this bake by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them into a freezer bag. Frozen oatmeal bakes last up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a quick morning meal anytime.

Reheating

To reheat, simply microwave your portions for 60 to 90 seconds or warm gently in an oven-safe dish at 300°F (150°C) until heated through. Adding a splash of milk before reheating helps to restore its moist, custardy texture.

FAQs

Can I use steel-cut oats for this recipe?

Steel-cut oats have a tougher texture and require longer cooking times, so they are not ideal for the Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake Recipe. Rolled oats offer the perfect balance of texture and absorption for a creamy, tender bake.

What type of apples work best?

Firm apple varieties like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Braeburn, or Gala hold their shape during baking and provide a pleasant sweet-tart contrast that pairs beautifully with warm cinnamon.

Is this recipe suitable for a dairy-free diet?

Absolutely! You can easily swap the regular milk for almond, soy, oat, or any other plant-based milk to make it dairy-free without sacrificing taste or texture.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make it vegan, replace the eggs with flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer and use a plant-based milk. Keep in mind the texture may differ slightly, but it will still be delicious and satisfying.

How sweet is the bake?

This bake has a natural sweetness from the apples and maple syrup or honey. You can adjust the amount of sweetener depending on your preference or on how sweet your apples are, making it as lightly or richly sweetened as you like.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake Recipe enough—it’s one of those dishes that brings comfort, nutrition, and joy all before your day really gets going. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s a simple recipe that makes mornings something special. So grab those oats and apples, and dive into a warm, tasty breakfast experience that feels like a homemade hug. You’ll be so glad you did!

Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 18 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake is a wholesome, comforting morning dish perfect for a nutritious start to your day. Crafted with old-fashioned oats, fresh apples, and natural sweeteners, it offers a tender, cake-like texture infused with warm cinnamon and vanilla aromas. It’s easily customizable with dairy or plant-based milk and can be enriched with optional nuts for added crunch and nutrition.

Instructions

Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 inch or 9×9 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter, coconut oil, or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the 2 eggs until frothy. Add the milk, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract. Whisk until fully combined and smooth.
Combine the Dry Ingredients: Add the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt to the wet ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until all oats are moistened and ingredients are just combined, taking care not to overmix.
Fold in the Apples and Nuts: Gently fold the diced apples and chopped walnuts or pecans (if using) into the oat mixture using a spatula to preserve airiness.
Bake to Perfection: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly. Bake in preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the top turns golden brown, edges pull away slightly, and the center is set. A toothpick inserted should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and transfer to a wire rack. Let cool for 5-10 minutes to set before slicing. Serve warm for best taste and texture.

Notes

Use firm-fleshed apples such as Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Braeburn, or Gala to retain shape and texture during baking.
Almond milk offers a dairy-free option with a mild nutty flavor; other plant-based milks like soy or oat milk are also great alternatives.
Adjust maple syrup or honey quantity to your preferred sweetness depending on apple tartness.
Adding nuts is optional but recommended for added crunch and nutritional benefits.
For a gluten-free version, ensure oats are certified gluten-free.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Brunch
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American