Apple and Cinnamon Oat Breakfast Bake
This Apple and Cinnamon Oat Breakfast Bake is the kind of recipe that earns a permanent spot in your weekly routine. It feels cozy and familiar, like a warm bowl of oatmeal, but with the ease of a make-ahead bake that feeds the whole family. Rolled oats soften into a tender, sliceable texture while apples add gentle sweetness and cinnamon brings everything together. It works equally well for busy mornings, relaxed weekend brunches, or a healthier dessert option. You can prep it the night before, customize it endlessly, and enjoy leftovers for days without it drying out or losing flavor.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 40 to 45 minutes
Total time: About 1 hour
Servings: 6 to 8
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
Old-fashioned rolled oats: 2 ½ cups
Baking powder: 1 ½ teaspoons
Ground cinnamon: 2 teaspoons
Ground nutmeg: ¼ teaspoon (optional)
Salt: ½ teaspoon
Brown sugar: ⅓ cup, packed (or ¼ cup maple syrup if preferred)
Wet Ingredients
Milk (dairy or almond milk): 2 cups
Large eggs: 2
Unsweetened applesauce: ½ cup
Melted butter or coconut oil: 3 tablespoons (optional but recommended)
Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons
Mix-ins and Toppings
Apples, peeled and chopped: 2 medium (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
Raisins or dried cranberries: ⅓ cup
Chopped walnuts or pecans: ⅓ cup
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with butter or oil.
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg if using, salt, and brown sugar. Stir until evenly mixed.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, applesauce, melted butter or oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until all the oats are well coated.
Fold in the chopped apples, raisins, and nuts, distributing them evenly through the mixture.
Pour the oat mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
Lightly tap the dish on the counter to remove air pockets and help the mixture settle.
For extra texture, sprinkle a few additional nuts or apple slices over the top if desired.
Bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips
Use old-fashioned rolled oats, not quick oats, for the best texture and structure.
Chop apples into small, even pieces so they soften fully during baking.
For a creamier bake, use whole milk or a barista-style plant milk.
Let the mixture sit for five minutes before baking if you prefer a softer center.
Applesauce replaces some fat and keeps the bake moist for days.
Cover loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly near the end.
Resting time matters, as it allows the bake to firm up for clean slices.
Toast the nuts lightly beforehand for deeper flavor.
Adjust sweetness after baking with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup if needed.
Store leftovers tightly covered to prevent drying out.
Variations
Make it dairy-free by using almond milk and coconut oil.
Make it vegan by replacing eggs with two flax eggs.
Add pear or diced peaches for a different fruit profile.
Stir in shredded coconut for extra texture.
Use pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon for a fall twist.
Add chocolate chips for a more indulgent version.
Replace raisins with chopped dates for natural sweetness.
Add a swirl of peanut butter or almond butter before baking.
Increase protein by stirring in Greek yogurt and reducing milk slightly.
Bake in muffin tins for grab-and-go portions.
Q and A
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it keeps well for up to four days in the fridge.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, slice and freeze individually for up to two months.
Is it served hot or cold?
Both work, but warm is best.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, especially if your apples are sweet.
Can I skip the butter?
Yes, but texture will be slightly drier.
What apples work best?
Granny Smith for tartness, Honeycrisp for sweetness.
Can I add yogurt?
Yes, reduce milk by ¼ cup if adding yogurt.
Does it need toppings?
Not necessary, but yogurt or nut butter pairs well.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a 9×13-inch dish.
Is it kid-friendly?
Very, especially with softer apples and mild spices.
Nutrition
(Approximate per serving)
Calories: 260
Protein: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g
Fiber: 6 g
Fat: 9 g
Sugar: 12 g
Conclusion
Apple and Cinnamon Oat Breakfast Bake is one of those dependable recipes that feels both nourishing and comforting. It uses simple pantry ingredients, adapts easily to different diets, and delivers consistent results every time. Whether you serve it fresh from the oven, reheat it for busy mornings, or dress it up with yogurt and fruit, it brings warmth and balance to the table. Once you try it, it quickly becomes a go-to option for stress-free breakfasts that still feel special.