Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake

Name: Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 2 cups milk (or non-dairy milk); 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 2 teaspoons cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 apples, peeled and diced; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Baking Collection

I love starting my mornings with a warm, comforting bowl of oatmeal, and this Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake takes it to another level. The combination of tender baked apples, cozy cinnamon, and hearty oats creates a dish that's not only delicious but also filling. I often make this on weekends to enjoy during a lazy brunch or to have leftovers ready for busy weekday breakfasts. It's an effortless way to make breakfast feel special and satisfying.

Created by

Matilda Rowe

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:08:37.655Z

When I first made this Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake, I was amazed at how easy it was to prepare and how the aroma filled my kitchen. My family couldn't wait to dig in as the sweet scent of apples and cinnamon wafted through the house. I love that you can easily customize it with nuts or dried fruits, and it holds up well in the fridge for a few days!

The key to making this dish extra special is to let it rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the oats to absorb more of the moisture and results in a perfectly soft texture. Trust me, you won't regret the few extra minutes!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Warm, hearty goodness perfect for breakfast or brunch
Fall-inspired flavors that fill your home with a delightful aroma
Easily customizable with nuts or dried fruits for added texture

Mastering Your Oatmeal Bake

Creating the perfect Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake is a blend of choosing the right ingredients and executing the steps with care. The key to achieving a moist yet firm texture lies in the balance of wet and dry components. Make sure to evenly mix the eggs and milk before introducing the oats. This ensures that each oat flake is coated adequately, absorbing flavors and moisture as it bakes, resulting in a tender yet structured final dish.

When you're mixing in the apples and optional walnuts, consider using a spatula instead of a whisk to avoid breaking down the apple pieces. You want to keep those delightful chunks intact for a burst of flavor in every bite. Dicing the apples into uniform cubes guarantees even baking and texture; approximately 1/2-inch pieces work best for optimal softness without turning mushy.

Perfecting the Bake

Baking times can vary based on your oven and the specific baking dish used. A glass dish often leads to a slightly longer bake due to the heat diffusion properties. Keep an eye on the oatmeal after the 30-minute mark. You’re looking for a golden-brown top with a slightly puffed appearance. If the edges begin to darken before the center sets, you can place a sheet of aluminum foil lightly on top to prevent excess browning while the center firms up.

After taking the oatmeal out of the oven, let it cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps the structure firm up further, making it easier to cut into neat servings. If you prefer your oatmeal warm for serving, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds. Adding a splash of milk or a dollop of yogurt while reheating enhances the creaminess.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake.

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
2 cups milk (or non-dairy milk)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 apples, peeled and diced
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

These ingredients combine to create a comforting and delicious oatmeal bake.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your oatmeal bake.

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Mix wet ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

Combine all ingredients

Add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients and mix well. Then fold in the diced apples and walnuts if using.

Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Cool and serve

Let the oatmeal bake cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, topped with a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Bake!

Pro Tips

For an extra special touch, serve with a dollop of yogurt and a sprinkle of extra cinnamon on top.

Customize Your Bake

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily swap out the apples for other fruits like pears or even berries, depending on what you have on hand. Just keep in mind that different fruits have varying moisture levels, so you might need to tweak the baking time. For a richer flavor, try adding shredded coconut or a sprinkle of nutmeg along with the cinnamon for a bit of extra warmth.

For those who want to lower the sugar content, you can substitute with a sugar alternative like maple syrup or honey, adjusting to taste. Just be mindful that using liquid sweeteners may slightly alter the moisture balance in the oatmeal. If you're keeping an eye on fat content, using egg whites instead of whole eggs can work well, but you may lose some of the richness in flavor and texture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, this oatmeal bake stores surprisingly well. Cover the cooled dish with plastic wrap or transfer individual portions to airtight containers. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will continue to develop, making leftover servings just as delicious, if not more so, than fresh out of the oven. Just be sure to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating to avoid excess moisture buildup.

For longer storage, consider freezing the oatmeal bake. Cut it into portions, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a little milk if needed to bring back creaminess. This way, you can enjoy a quick and delightful breakfast any time you wish!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, you can substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal and use non-dairy milk for a vegan version.

→ Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

While rolled oats give a better texture, you can use quick oats; just adjust the baking time slightly.

→ How long will leftovers keep?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add other fruits?

Absolutely! Feel free to add berries or peaches for a different twist.