Creamy Apple Baked Oatmeal

Introduction

Creamy Apple Baked Oatmeal is a warm, hearty, and comforting breakfast that combines the natural sweetness of apples with the creamy, nutty goodness of oatmeal. This baked oatmeal is perfect for chilly mornings, offering a nourishing start to your day while filling your home with the inviting aroma of cinnamon and baked apples. With its soft, custard-like texture and wholesome ingredients, it’s a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of fall any time of the year.

I remember the first time I made this on a crisp autumn morning. The scent of cinnamon and apples wafting through the kitchen was irresistible, and my family couldn’t wait to dig in. What I love most about Creamy Apple Baked Oatmeal is how versatile it is. You can top it with a dollop of yogurt, a drizzle of maple syrup, or even a handful of chopped nuts for added crunch. It’s equally delightful served fresh out of the oven or reheated for a quick, satisfying breakfast throughout the week.

This dish is surprisingly easy to prepare. With just a few pantry staples and some fresh apples, you can create a breakfast that feels indulgent but is packed with nutrients. Whether you’re enjoying it with your morning coffee or sharing it at a weekend brunch, Creamy Apple Baked Oatmeal is sure to become a favorite in your breakfast rotation!

Perfect for:

• Cozy breakfasts
• Meal prepping for busy mornings
• Family brunches
• Apple and oatmeal lovers
• Nutritious desserts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Creamy Apple Baked Oatmeal is a must-try breakfast:

• Warm and Comforting Flavors: The combination of apples, cinnamon, and vanilla creates a classic, cozy taste.
• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with oats, fruit, and wholesome ingredients, this dish is a great source of fiber and energy.
• Customizable: Add your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or spices to make it your own.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead and enjoy individual portions throughout the week.
• Kid-Friendly: Soft and naturally sweet, it’s a hit with little ones too!

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 6g, Carbs: 40g, Fiber: 5g, Fat: 8g

Ingredients

The Oatmeal Base:

• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Creamy Mixture:

• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or regular milk)
• ¼ cup pure maple syrup (or honey)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (or coconut oil)

For the Apple Filling:

• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (use a sweet variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup

Optional Toppings:

• Chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts)
• Raisins or dried cranberries
• Fresh apple slices
• Drizzle of maple syrup

Ingredient Highlights

• Apples: Provide natural sweetness and a juicy, tender texture when baked.
• Rolled Oats: The base for the dish, offering heart-healthy fiber and a creamy texture.
• Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that enhances the warm flavors of the dish.
• Cinnamon and Nutmeg: Classic spices that add depth and warmth to the flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Apples:

1. Dice the Apples: Peel, core, and dice the apples into small, bite-sized pieces.
2. Coat with Cinnamon: In a small bowl, toss the diced apples with lemon juice, cinnamon, and maple syrup. Set aside.

Mix the Dry Ingredients:

3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, and salt.

Prepare the Wet Ingredients:

4. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and melted butter.

Assemble the Dish:

5. Layer the Ingredients: Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Spread half of the oat mixture evenly across the bottom. Add the prepared apples as a middle layer, and then top with the remaining oat mixture.
6. Pour the Wet Ingredients: Slowly pour the wet mixture over the oats and apples, ensuring all the oats are evenly moistened.

Bake the Oatmeal:

7. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the oatmeal for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oatmeal is set in the center.

Serve and Garnish:

8. Cool Slightly: Let the oatmeal cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
9. Garnish and Serve: Optionally, top with chopped nuts, raisins, or a drizzle of maple syrup. Serve warm.

How to Serve

• With Yogurt: Serve warm oatmeal squares with a dollop of Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt.
• With Fresh Fruit: Add sliced bananas, berries, or extra apple slices for a refreshing touch.
• As a Dessert: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a healthy dessert twist.
• On the Go: Pack individual portions for a quick and satisfying breakfast.

Additional Tips

• Use sweet apples for the best flavor.
• Substitute almond milk with oat, soy, or cow’s milk.
• Add flaxseeds or chia seeds for a nutritional boost.
• For a softer texture, soak the oats in the wet ingredients for 10 minutes before baking.
• Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or oven.

Recipe Variations

1. Banana Apple Baked Oatmeal – Add mashed bananas to the wet ingredients for natural sweetness.
2. Berry Apple Baked Oatmeal – Add fresh or frozen berries to the apple layer.
3. Carrot Apple Baked Oatmeal – Incorporate shredded carrots for a carrot cake-inspired twist.
4. Pumpkin Apple Baked Oatmeal – Replace some of the milk with canned pumpkin and add pumpkin pie spice.
5. Apple Coconut Baked Oatmeal – Add shredded coconut for a tropical flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Slice into individual portions, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Special Equipment

• 9×9-inch baking dish
• Whisk
• Mixing bowls

FAQ Section

1. Can I use steel-cut oats? Yes, but increase the baking time and liquid amount.
2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Yes, use almond milk and coconut oil.
3. Can I omit the eggs? Yes, use flax eggs as a substitute (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water per egg).
4. Can I add protein powder? Yes, mix it into the wet ingredients for added protein.
5. Can I make it sweeter? Add more maple syrup or a sprinkle of brown sugar before baking.

Print

Conclusion

Enjoy the warm, creamy goodness of Creamy Apple Baked Oatmeal, a comforting dish perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack. With tender baked oats, sweet apples, and a hint of cinnamon, this wholesome recipe is both nourishing and satisfying. Every bite delivers a delightful balance of creamy texture and warm, spiced flavors that feel like a hug in a bowl.

This versatile dish is easy to customize—add nuts, raisins, or a drizzle of maple syrup to make it your own. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy morning, meal-prepping for the week, or sharing it with loved ones, Creamy Apple Baked Oatmeal is a guaranteed hit.

I’d love to see how your Creamy Apple Baked Oatmeal turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Enjoy and happy baking!