Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal: The Ultimate Fall Breakfast

When fall rolls around, we all crave something warm and comforting to start our day. And what’s better than the combination of sweet cinnamon, tender apples, and hearty oats? That’s right—apple cinnamon baked oatmeal. It’s like taking your favorite fall dessert and turning it into a nutritious, wholesome breakfast. Imagine sitting down to a steaming bowl of this baked goodness, with the aroma of cinnamon and apples filling your home—it’s the kind of start to the day that makes you want to pause and enjoy every single bite.

What I love about this recipe is that it’s not only delicious but super versatile. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting breakfast on a chilly fall morning or you’re looking for a make-ahead meal to keep you fueled throughout the week, this baked oatmeal is your answer. The best part? It’s one of those dishes that can be prepped ahead of time, so all you need to do in the morning is pop it in the oven, and you’ll have a warm, satisfying breakfast ready in just 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Before we dive into the ingredients, let me tell you a little about why this recipe has become one of my fall favorites:

• Easy to Make: Once you gather the ingredients, this dish practically bakes itself. There’s very little hands-on time, making it perfect for those busy mornings.
• Customizable: Not a fan of walnuts? Add pecans, or leave them out altogether! Want extra sweetness? Drizzle a little more maple syrup over the top once it’s baked. It’s totally up to you.
• Healthy and Filling: Oats are a whole grain that’s rich in fiber, helping you feel full longer. Paired with apples and a touch of maple syrup, this dish is a balanced, nutritious breakfast that’ll keep you energized through the morning.

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Let’s Get Baking:

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this cozy, fall-inspired baked oatmeal:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 1/2 cups milk (you can use dairy or non-dairy milk, like almond or oat milk)
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey for a lighter sweetness)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 apples (peeled, cored, and chopped into bite-sized pieces)
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional, but they add a nice crunch)

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This ensures your oatmeal doesn’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.

Now’s also the perfect time to gather your other ingredients—peel and chop those apples, measure out the oats, and make sure your spices are ready to go.

2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. This wet mixture will give the oatmeal its rich, flavorful base. The maple syrup adds a hint of sweetness that perfectly complements the warmth of the cinnamon and nutmeg.

If you’re looking to make this even more fall-like, try adding a little cloves or a splash of orange zest for a zesty twist. But the cinnamon and nutmeg are really all you need for that classic fall flavor.

3. Combine the Dry Ingredients:

In a separate large bowl, mix the old-fashioned rolled oats, baking powder, and salt. Be sure to use rolled oats, not quick oats, as they provide a chewy, hearty texture that’s perfect for baking. The baking powder helps give the oatmeal a nice lift, making it fluffy without being overly dense.

4. Add Apples & Walnuts:

Now, fold in your chopped apples and walnuts (if using) into the oat mixture. The apples will soften as they bake, releasing their natural sweetness into the oatmeal, while the walnuts add a wonderful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft oats.

5. Assemble the Baked Oatmeal:

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, and give everything a good stir until it’s all well combined. The oats should be evenly distributed, and the apples and walnuts should be scattered throughout.

Now, pour the oatmeal mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. If you’d like, you can sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top for that extra cozy touch.

6. Bake to Perfection:

Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oatmeal has set. You’ll know it’s done when you stick a fork in the center, and it comes out clean. The smell in your kitchen will be amazing!

If you like your oatmeal extra crisp on top, leave it in for an additional 5 minutes. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t over-brown.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Once the baked oatmeal is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing it into squares. Serve it warm, topped with extra maple syrup, a dollop of yogurt, or even a handful of fresh fruit for added flavor. You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or a drizzle of almond butter for extra richness.

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This apple cinnamon baked oatmeal is the perfect combination of healthy and comforting, making it a great choice for fall mornings. It’s an easy breakfast to make in advance and can be enjoyed all week long—simply reheat a square in the microwave or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.

Plus, if you’re craving variety, this recipe is super customizable! Add raisins, cranberries, or even other seasonal fruits like pears or pomegranate seeds. You could even experiment with adding spices like cardamom or pumpkin pie spice for a fun twist.

I love how this recipe fills the house with the smell of cinnamon and apples—it’s the ultimate cozy, fall experience in a bowl. Whether you’re making it for yourself, your family, or a brunch gathering, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.

Affiliate Recommendations for Perfect Fall Baking:

Before you dive into making this apple cinnamon baked oatmeal, you’ll want to make sure you have all the essentials for a successful baking session. Here are a few products I personally recommend that will make your fall baking even easier and more enjoyable:

• High-Quality Rolled Oats: The foundation of this recipe! Look for oats that are organic or gluten-free if needed.
• Maple Syrup: A good-quality maple syrup will really make a difference in this dish. Try to use pure maple syrup, not imitation, for the best flavor.
• Baking Dish: A sturdy, non-stick 9×9-inch baking dish will help your oatmeal bake evenly and make cleanup a breeze.
• Spices: Fresh, high-quality cinnamon and nutmeg will elevate the flavor of your oatmeal, so it’s worth investing in a good set of spices.
• Mixing Bowls: A set of sturdy, non-slip mixing bowls will help you get everything ready for baking without the mess!

Pro Tip: If you want to keep your oatmeal extra healthy, try using unsweetened almond milk and cutting back on the maple syrup. You’ll still get that warm, cozy fall flavor, but with fewer calories and sugar.

As Always, Keep Cooking!