This apple cinnamon baked oatmeal delivers cozy flavor and a pleasing texture: warm baked apples, fragrant cinnamon and spices, and soft, chewy oats. It’s gluten free and dairy free, with an easy vegan option. Ready for the oven in under 15 minutes, it makes a nourishing breakfast, brunch, or even breakfast-for-dinner.
This wholesome apple cinnamon baked oatmeal is ideal for crisp fall mornings, a relaxed weekend brunch, or a simple make-ahead breakfast during busy weekdays. It uses real-food ingredients like rolled oats and ground flaxseed, and is lightly sweetened with pure maple syrup. The combination of tender baked apples and warming spices provides a comforting dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-bowl prep that takes less than 15 minutes to assemble—minimal hands-on time.
- Made with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats and ground flaxseed for added fiber, plant-based protein, and omega-3s.
- Warm, comforting flavors that are perfect for fall and winter mornings.
- Suitable for many dietary needs: gluten free, dairy free, and easily adaptable to vegan.
Ingredient Notes
A complete ingredient list is provided in the recipe card below. Here are a few notes and substitutions to help you customize the dish.
Oats – Old-fashioned rolled oats give the best texture. Quick oats can be used in a pinch but may yield a softer, slightly mushier result. If you need to avoid gluten, choose certified gluten-free oats.
Apples – Choose crisp, sweet apples for baking such as Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, Fuji, or Gala. Granny Smith works well if you prefer a tarter contrast.
Applesauce – Use unsweetened applesauce. Plain or cinnamon-flavored unsweetened applesauce both work.
Oil or butter – Melted coconut oil is used here to keep the recipe dairy free. If dairy is acceptable, melted butter can be substituted.
Sweetener – Pure maple syrup adds natural sweetness and depth. Honey or coconut sugar can be used as alternatives if desired.
Milk – Unsweetened almond milk keeps the recipe dairy free; any milk will work. If you choose a plant-based milk, use an unsweetened variety.
How to Make
Only a few simple steps are needed to make this easy baked oatmeal.
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 or 9×9 baking dish.
Step 2: Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and stir until evenly mixed. If you like, reserve a few apple slices to sprinkle on top before baking.
Step 3: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake at 350°F for 35–40 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing.
These baked oats work well for meal prep: refrigerate leftovers and reheat individual portions as needed. They also freeze nicely for longer storage.
Serving Suggestions
This apple cinnamon baked oatmeal is versatile and pairs well with many accompaniments:
- Serve with a drizzle of nut butter or extra maple syrup for added richness.
- Add a dollop of coconut whipped cream or regular whipped cream for a more indulgent treat.
- Make it a hearty brunch by serving alongside eggs or roasted vegetables.
- Top with chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon for variety.
Expert Tips & Notes
Vegan option: replace the egg with an extra 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce and use dairy-free milk.
Use rolled oats for the best texture. Quick oats are an acceptable substitute but will produce a softer result. Steel-cut oats are not recommended unless you adjust cooking time and liquid.
Try add-ins like chopped walnuts or pecans, dried cranberries, chia seeds, or a pinch of pumpkin pie spice to enhance the fall flavors.
Meal prep tip: bake ahead and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for about 30–60 seconds, or until warmed through.
FAQs
Yes. Oats are a whole-grain source of fiber and complex carbohydrates. This recipe includes ground flaxseed for extra fiber, plant-based protein, and omega-3 fatty acids. Adding fat and protein helps balance the meal and reduce blood sugar spikes.
How is baked oatmeal different from regular oatmeal?
Baked oatmeal is mixed with eggs (or an egg substitute) and baked, giving it a denser, cake-like texture. Stovetop oatmeal is cooked with water or milk and remains creamy and loose.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling is optional. Leaving the skin on saves time and preserves nutrients and texture, so many people prefer to leave it intact.
Which apples work best?
Sweet, crisp apples such as Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, Fuji, or Gala are ideal for this recipe.
Storing & Freezing
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warm. To freeze, place cooled portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat from frozen.
More Oatmeal Recipes to Try
-
Chocolate Baked Oats (no banana)
-
Baked Berry Oatmeal
-
Blueberry Chia Overnight Oats
-
Overnight Oats with Protein Powder
If you make this recipe, please share your feedback and a photo if you like. Your notes help others and make it easier to customize the recipe to your taste.
Eat clean. Be well.
– Sara
Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal
Warm baked apples, cinnamon, and soft oats combine to make a cozy, nourishing breakfast. Gluten free, dairy free, and adaptable to vegan.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- 8×8 or 9×9 baking dish
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups rolled oats (certified gluten free if needed)
- 1/2 cup ground flaxseeds
- 2 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 cups chopped apples
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 egg (or additional 1/4 cup applesauce for vegan)
- 1 1/2 cups milk of choice (unsweetened)
- 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 or 9×9 baking dish and set aside.
- Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl and stir until evenly mixed. Reserve a few apple pieces for the top if desired.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned and the center is set.
- Allow to cool slightly before cutting into squares. Serve warm or refrigerate for later.
Notes
- To make vegan, replace the egg with an extra 1/4 cup applesauce and use dairy-free milk.
- Leftovers keep in the refrigerator up to 5 days.
- You can double the recipe and bake in a 9×13 pan.
- Recipe yields approximately 6–9 servings depending on portion size; nutrition is calculated for 9 servings.
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 225 | Carbohydrates: 27 g | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 12 g | Fiber: 6 g | Sugar: 7 g