Oatmeal Apple Bake: Cozy 1 Dish Breakfast

Name: Oatmeal Apple Bake: Cozy 1 Dish Breakfast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-487991H47M40S
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 2 cups almond milk; 2 large apples, peeled and diced; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional); 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)

by inass sped

September 1, 2025

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Oatmeal apple breakfast bake has become my go-to for busy mornings since I discovered how incredibly simple and satisfying it is. I remember one crisp autumn weekend, I wanted something warm and comforting, and this recipe delivered exactly that. The aroma of cinnamon and baked apples filling my kitchen was pure bliss! This apple cinnamon oatmeal bake is so forgiving, even if you’re new to baking. It’s packed with wholesome goodness and tastes like a treat. Let’s get cooking this delightful apple and oat breakfast casserole!

Why You’ll Love This Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake

This dish is a breakfast game-changer for so many reasons!

It’s incredibly easy to throw together, perfect for busy mornings.
The warm spices and sweet apples create a comforting, cozy flavor.
It’s a healthy way to start your day, packed with fiber and whole grains.
This apple cinnamon oatmeal bake is a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
You can customize it with your favorite nuts and dried fruits.
It’s a fantastic make-ahead option for stress-free breakfasts.
This baked oatmeal with apples offers a satisfying texture that keeps you full.
It’s a simple apple oatmeal breakfast idea that feels indulgent but is totally wholesome.

Ingredients for Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake

Gathering the ingredients for this delicious oatmeal apple breakfast bake is super simple. You’ll need:

2 cups rolled oats – I always use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture; instant oats can get too mushy for this baked oatmeal with apples.
2 cups almond milk – or any milk you prefer; this helps create a creamy, moist consistency.
2 large apples, peeled and diced – Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonderfully for this apple cinnamon oatmeal bake, offering a nice balance of tartness and sweetness.
1/2 cup brown sugar – for that classic warm, caramel-like sweetness that complements the apples.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – the star spice that makes this dish smell and taste like autumn!
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg – just a hint to add depth to the cinnamon.
1 teaspoon baking powder – this helps the bake rise slightly, giving it a lighter texture.
1/4 teaspoon salt – to enhance all the flavors.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – for that lovely fragrant aroma and taste.
1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional) – walnuts or pecans are fantastic additions for a little crunch.
1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional) – for bursts of chewy sweetness.

How to Make Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake

Let’s get this simple apple oatmeal breakfast idea into the oven! It’s truly a straightforward process that fills your home with the most amazing aroma.

Step 1: Crank up your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and give it a good grease. This prevents our delicious creation from sticking.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine all the dry ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Give it a quick whisk to distribute everything evenly.
Step 3: Now, toss in the goodies! Add your 2 large apples, peeled and diced, along with the 1/2 cup chopped nuts and 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries if you’re using them. Stir them into the dry mixture.
Step 4: In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: 2 cups almond milk and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. This simple step ensures everything is well combined for our apple cinnamon oatmeal bake.
Step 5: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and apples. Stir everything gently until it’s just combined. Don’t overmix; we want a lovely texture for our baked oatmeal with apples.
Step 6: Pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly so it bakes uniformly.
Step 7: Slide the dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is beautifully golden brown and the center is set. The scent wafting from your oven will be incredible!
Step 8: Once baked, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Let it cool for about 5 to 10 minutes. This allows it to firm up a bit, making it easier to serve.
Step 9: For an extra touch, you can garnish with some fresh apple slices.
Step 10: Serve your warm oatmeal apple breakfast bake warm, maybe with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of maple syrup. Enjoy this fantastic apple and oat breakfast casserole!

Oatmeal Apple Bake: Cozy 1 Dish Breakfast - Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake

Want to elevate your oatmeal apple breakfast bake from good to absolutely amazing? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make a big difference.

Always use rolled oats (old-fashioned) for the best texture; instant oats can turn mushy.
Don’t skip the baking powder; it gives the bake a lovely lift and prevents it from being too dense.
Let the mixture sit for a few minutes after combining wet and dry ingredients; this allows the oats to soften slightly before baking.
For an extra special touch, add a sprinkle of brown sugar and cinnamon on top before baking for a delightful crust.

What’s the secret to perfect oatmeal apple breakfast bake?

The real secret to a perfect apple cinnamon oatmeal bake lies in the balance of moisture and texture. Using rolled oats and not overmixing the batter ensures a delightful chewiness, while the diced apples add natural sweetness and moisture. For more baking inspiration, check out our collection of recipes.

Can I make oatmeal apple breakfast bake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire baked oatmeal with apples the night before. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply pull it out of the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This is a great make-ahead strategy, similar to how one might prepare chicken meatballs for a weeknight meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with oatmeal apple breakfast bake?

A common pitfall is using instant oats, which can lead to a gummy texture. Also, be careful not to overmix the batter; this can make the bake tough. Lastly, ensure your oven is properly preheated for even cooking. Understanding oven temperatures is crucial for many dishes, including teriyaki chicken sheet pan suppers.

Best Ways to Serve Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake

This comforting oatmeal apple breakfast bake is delicious on its own, but it truly shines when paired with a few simple additions. For a truly decadent experience, I love serving it warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a swirl of whipped cream. A drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of toasted pecans also adds a wonderful touch of sweetness and crunch, making it feel like a special treat.

If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, this apple cinnamon oatmeal bake pairs beautifully with a side of crispy bacon or a fresh fruit salad. It’s also a fantastic option for a brunch spread, complementing other dishes like scrambled eggs or pancakes. This versatile dish makes any breakfast feel a little more special! For other breakfast ideas, consider our jalapeno buffalo chicken casserole.

Nutrition Facts for Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake

This healthy oatmeal apple breakfast is a nutritious way to fuel your day. A typical serving provides a good balance of macronutrients.

Calories: Approximately 300-350 kcal
Fat: Varies
Saturated Fat: Varies
Protein: Varies
Carbohydrates: Varies
Fiber: Varies
Sugar: Varies
Sodium: Varies

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on optional ingredients and sweetener choices used in this apple and oat breakfast casserole. For more information on healthy eating, you can consult resources on nutrition.gov.

How to Store and Reheat Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake

One of the best things about this easy apple oatmeal breakfast casserole is how well it stores, making it perfect for meal prep. Once your warm apple oatmeal bake has cooled completely, you’ll want to store it properly to keep it fresh. You can place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices. Wrap each cooled slice securely in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. This makes it incredibly convenient to have a healthy breakfast ready whenever you need it!

Reheating is just as simple. For refrigerated portions, you can gently warm individual slices in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, or reheat the entire dish in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight first, then reheat as described. Enjoying this delicious apple cinnamon baked oats has never been easier, even days after you first make it! If you enjoy this, you might also like our mediterranean chicken zucchini bake.

Oatmeal Apple Bake: Cozy 1 Dish Breakfast - Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake - additional detail

Frequently Asked Questions About Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake

What’s the best apple to use for an oatmeal apple breakfast bake?

For the best flavor and texture in your apple cinnamon oatmeal bake, I recommend using crisp, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape well during baking and provide a wonderful contrast to the sweet oats.

Can I make this a gluten-free oatmeal apple breakfast bake?

Yes, absolutely! To make this a gluten-free oatmeal apple breakfast bake, simply ensure you use certified gluten-free rolled oats. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so it’s an easy swap!

How do I make an overnight oatmeal apple bake?

To prepare an overnight oatmeal apple bake, combine all the ingredients in the baking dish the night before. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. In the morning, bake as directed, though you might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold.

What can I serve with oatmeal apple breakfast bake?

This baked apple cinnamon oatmeal is delicious on its own, but it’s also great with a dollop of Greek yogurt, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a side of fresh berries. For a heartier breakfast, it pairs nicely with sausage or bacon. For more breakfast ideas, consider our fried meatballs.

Variations of Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake You Can Try

This oatmeal apple breakfast bake is wonderfully versatile, and I love experimenting with different flavors and dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to shake things up!

Apple Pie Oatmeal Bake: For a dessert-like flavor, swap the nutmeg for half a teaspoon of apple pie spice and add a tablespoon of lemon zest. It really captures that classic apple pie essence in a healthier package.
Vegan Oatmeal Apple Breakfast: Easily make this recipe vegan by using your favorite plant-based milk, like almond or oat milk, and substituting the brown sugar with maple syrup for a delightful vegan twist.
Gluten-Free Oatmeal Apple Bake: If you need a gluten-free option, simply use certified gluten-free rolled oats. This ensures everyone can enjoy this delicious apple and oat breakfast casserole.
Apple Crumble Oatmeal Bake: Top the bake with a mixture of 1/4 cup oats, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon flour (or gluten-free flour), and 1 tablespoon melted butter or coconut oil before baking for a crunchy, apple crumble topping.