Craving a nutritious yet indulgent breakfast? Dive into the world of Baked Apple Oatmeal, a heartwarming dish that combines the wholesome goodness of oats with the sweet, spiced flavor of fresh apples.

This make-ahead breakfast casserole features old-fashioned oats baked to perfection with chunks of tender apples, warm cinnamon, and natural maple sweetness.

Ingredients List

Creating a delicious Baked Apple Oatmeal requires simple, wholesome components to achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Let’s break down the ingredients needed for this nutritious breakfast casserole.

Main Ingredients

2 cups old-fashioned oats (divided)
3 large apples (divided, peeled and diced)
1/3 cup pure maple syrup
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 cup oat milk
1/4 cup plain yogurt
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons coconut oil

Required Kitchen Tools

When preparing Baked Apple Oatmeal, having the right kitchen tools can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the essential tools you will need:

Blender or Food Processor: To efficiently combine most of the ingredients into a smooth mixture, saving you time and ensuring proper consistency.
9×9 Baking Pan: The perfect size for this recipe, allowing even baking and proper portion sizes.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements of both dry and liquid ingredients, ensuring the perfect balance of flavors.
Vegetable Peeler: To easily remove the skin from the apples before dicing them.
Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For safely and efficiently dicing the apples into uniform pieces.

Oatmeal Preparation

Preparing the batter for Baked Apple Oatmeal is a simple process that combines both blended and whole ingredients for the perfect texture. Follow the steps below to mix the ingredients properly and create a delicious breakfast casserole.

Mixing the Ingredients

To start the preparation, set aside 1 cup of diced apples and 1/2 cup of the oats—these will be folded in later to provide texture contrast.

Place the remaining ingredients in a blender: the rest of the apples and oats, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, oat milk, yogurt, applesauce, eggs, and coconut oil. Blend for 30-60 seconds until the mixture is well combined but not overly processed.

This creates a smooth base while preserving some texture. After blending, remove the blender blade carefully and fold in the reserved oats and diced apple pieces by hand, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.

Preparing the Baking Pan

Before adding the oatmeal mixture to your baking pan, it’s essential to properly prepare it to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the proper temperature before baking.

Thoroughly grease a 9×9 inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray, making sure to coat the bottom and sides evenly.

Pour the prepared oatmeal mixture into the greased baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly to the edges. This ensures uniform baking and consistent texture throughout the casserole.

Baking Instructions

To bake the Apple Oatmeal to perfect doneness, follow these steps for that ideal combination of moist interior and slightly crisp top:

Preheat Oven:
Ensure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C) before placing the oatmeal inside. This guarantees even baking from the start.
Baking Time:
Place the prepared 9×9 pan on the middle rack of your oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The oatmeal is done when the top appears set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs.
Visual Cues:
Look for a light golden color on the surface and slight pulling away from the sides of the pan, indicating the oatmeal is properly baked.
Cooling Period:
Allow the baked oatmeal to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This cooling time helps the oatmeal set properly and makes for cleaner slices when serving.
Resting Time:
For best results and flavor development, let the oatmeal rest for about 10 minutes after removing from the oven before serving warm.

Here’s the third part of the Baked Apple Oatmeal recipe:

Serving and Decoration

When it comes to serving and presenting your Baked Apple Oatmeal, attention to detail can elevate the overall experience, turning a nutritious breakfast into a delightful meal. Here are some tips to ensure your oatmeal looks as good as it tastes:

Suggested Toppings and Accompaniments

When it comes to serving Baked Apple Oatmeal, there are various delicious toppings and accompaniments that can enhance the flavor and presentation of this wholesome breakfast. Some popular options include:

Fresh Fruit: Top with additional fresh apple slices, berries, or banana for extra freshness and nutrition.
Nuts and Seeds: Sprinkle with chopped walnuts, almonds, or pumpkin seeds to add crunch and healthy fats.
Yogurt Drizzle: A dollop of Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt adds creaminess and protein.
Warm Spices: A light dusting of extra cinnamon or nutmeg brings out the apple flavors.
Sweet Touches: A drizzle of maple syrup, honey, or a sprinkle of brown sugar for those who prefer additional sweetness.

Experimenting with different toppings allows you to customize your Baked Apple Oatmeal to suit your taste preferences and create a visually appealing breakfast for any occasion.

Storage Instructions

Baked Apple Oatmeal is a fantastic make-ahead breakfast option that stores beautifully for quick, nutritious meals throughout the week.

How to Keep Baked Apple Oatmeal Fresh

After preparing your delicious Baked Apple Oatmeal, allow it to cool completely before storing. Cut into individual portions and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

This makes it perfect for meal prep and busy mornings. For the best texture when enjoying leftovers, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30-60 seconds until warmed through, or place in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes for a slightly crispier top.

Freezing Baked Apple Oatmeal

If you want to keep your Baked Apple Oatmeal for a longer period, freezing is an excellent option.

Cut the completely cooled oatmeal into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

To enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat as described above, or reheat directly from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the heating time.

Variations and Tips

The beauty of Baked Apple Oatmeal lies in its versatility. You can easily adapt this recipe to accommodate dietary needs and personal preferences.

Recipe Variations

Gluten-Free Option: Ensure your oats are certified gluten-free if preparing for someone with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Vegan Alternative: Replace the eggs with flax eggs (2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water, allowed to gel for 15 minutes) and use dairy-free yogurt.
Apple Varieties: Experiment with different apple types – Honeycrisp and Granny Smith provide a nice balance of sweetness and tartness, while Gala and Fuji offer more sweetness.
Seasonal Twists: Add fresh berries in summer, pears in fall, or dried fruits during winter months for seasonal adaptations.
Spice Variations: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger along with the cinnamon for a more complex flavor profile.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

For the best results with your Baked Apple Oatmeal, consider these helpful tips:

Apple Preparation: Choose firm apples that hold their shape when baked. Dice them into uniform pieces (about 1/2 inch) for even cooking.
Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the mixture the night before and refrigerate. In the morning, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before baking.
Individual Portions: For grab-and-go breakfast options, bake in a muffin tin, reducing the cooking time to about 20-25 minutes.
Texture Control: For a softer texture throughout, fold all oats into the blended mixture. For more texture contrast, reserve a larger portion of unblended oats.
Sweetness Level: Adjust the maple syrup to taste. The natural sweetness of the apples and applesauce may be enough for those who prefer less sweet breakfasts.