Name: Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups old-fashioned oats; 1 tsp cinnamon; ½ tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp salt; 1 ½ cups milk (or almond milk for dairy-free); 2 eggs; ¼ cup maple syrup or honey; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 large apple, diced; ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Jump to Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up to a breakfast that feels like a warm hug, then the Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake is here to make that dream come true. This cozy dish perfectly balances tender oats with crisp, sweet apple chunks, kissed by cinnamon and a touch of maple syrup, all baked into golden, comforting deliciousness. It’s not just nutritious—it’s an absolutely delightful way to start your day with a bit of homemade weekend magic or a simple weekday treat you’ll look forward to every morning.

Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for the Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake is simplicity at its finest. Each item plays a crucial role: from the hearty oats creating the perfect texture, to apples adding freshness and natural sweetness, plus a hint of warming cinnamon that makes it irresistible. Let’s break down what you’ll need for this comforting bake.

2 cups old-fashioned oats: They provide a chewy yet tender base that soaks up all the apple and spice flavors beautifully.
1 ½ cups milk (or almond milk for dairy-free): This liquid tenderizes the oats and creates a creamy texture after baking.
1 large apple, diced: Adds juicy bursts of flavor and a lovely natural sweetness.
2 eggs: Act as the binder to hold everything together and give the bake a nice structure.
¼ cup maple syrup or honey: Provides gentle sweetness along with a subtle depth of flavor.
1 tsp vanilla extract: It lifts the entire flavor profile with a warm, fragrant aroma.
1 tsp cinnamon: Brings in that classic apple-and-cinnamon cozy vibe everyone loves.
½ tsp baking powder: Helps the bake rise lightly, making it fluffy without losing its hearty texture.
¼ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds a crunch and nuts’ earthy richness for that extra something special.

How to Make Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prep Your Dish

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease a baking dish—this little step ensures your delicious bake doesn’t stick and comes out cleanly, ready to serve.

Step 2: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, vigorously whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. This combination is the luscious liquid that will soak into the oats, infusing every bite with flavor and moisture.

Step 3: Mix in the Dry Ingredients

Sprinkle in the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir gently but thoroughly, making sure everything is evenly combined. This step is where you build the fragrant, cozy heart of the bake.

Step 4: Fold in the Apples and Nuts

Now, gently fold in the diced apples and the nuts if you’re using them. The apples add juicy sweetness and a wonderful texture contrast, while the nuts bring a satisfying crunch that’s simply delightful.

Step 5: Transfer and Spread

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly so the bake cooks uniformly. This ensures that every slice delivers a perfect balance of apples, oats, and spice.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Pop your dish in the oven and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes. You’re aiming for a golden top and a set center—a true sign that your Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake is perfectly done and ready to enjoy.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let it rest for 5 minutes. This little pause helps the bake settle so every piece holds together beautifully whether you eat it warm right away or save it for later.

How to Serve Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a dollop of Greek yogurt on top can elevate the experience, adding creaminess and a touch of tang that contrasts wonderfully with the natural sweetness of the bake.

Side Dishes

Pair it with some fresh fruit or a handful of toasted nuts for a complete and satisfying breakfast. A hot cup of coffee or herbal tea perfectly rounds out this comforting morning meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake in individual ramekins or mini mason jars. This makes it feel like a special treat and great for meal prepping, plus it’s a charming way to impress breakfast guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep any leftover Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It’s perfect for busy mornings when you want breakfast ready to go without any fuss.

Freezing

Want to prepare in advance? Freeze portions individually wrapped or in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. When you’re craving a quick wholesome breakfast, just thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or oven. A minute or two on medium power will have your bake steaming warm and delightful again, just like freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples?

Absolutely! Granny Smith apples add a nice tartness while Fuji or Honeycrisp bring sweetness. Choose whatever you enjoy eating raw for the best flavor and texture.

Is this recipe suitable for dairy-free diets?

Yes! Simply swap regular milk for almond, oat, or any other plant-based milk, and you’ll have a delicious dairy-free Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Definitely. Just use certified gluten-free oats to keep the recipe safe if you’re avoiding gluten.

What can I substitute for the eggs?

For an egg-free version, use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) to retain that moist texture and binding quality.

How sweet is this bake? Can I reduce the maple syrup?

The maple syrup provides a pleasant, natural sweetness that complements the apples and cinnamon. Feel free to reduce it slightly if you prefer a less sweet dish, or add a drizzle on top when serving instead.

Final Thoughts

The Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake is more than just a morning meal—it’s a cozy ritual, embracing your kitchen with warmth and a little slice of home. Whether you make it for yourself or share it with loved ones, it’s sure to become a beloved staple that brightens even the busiest mornings. Give it a try and watch how it transforms your breakfast routine into something truly special.

Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 15 reviews

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

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Description

This Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake is a wholesome and comforting breakfast dish packed with old-fashioned oats, fresh apples, and warm cinnamon. It’s naturally sweetened with maple syrup or honey, making it a nourishing start to your day that’s easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep. The bake is soft, slightly crisp on top, and offers a delightful texture with optional crunchy nuts.

Instructions

Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy clean-up.
Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk of your choice, maple syrup or honey, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined.
Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in the old-fashioned oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt to the wet mixture until everything is well incorporated.
Fold in Add-ins: Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped nuts, if using, for added texture and flavor.
Pour & Spread: Transfer the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the center is set and firm to the touch.
Cool & Serve: Allow the bake to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy it warm or refrigerate leftovers to reheat for a quick, nutritious breakfast.

Notes

For a dairy-free option, substitute almond milk or another plant-based milk.
You can replace maple syrup with honey or agave nectar depending on your preference.
Add raisins or dried cranberries for extra sweetness and texture.
Use gluten-free oats to make the dish gluten-free if needed.
This bake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheated easily.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American