Name: Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups old-fashioned oats; 1 tsp cinnamon; ½ tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp salt; 1 ½ cups milk (or almond milk for dairy-free); 2 eggs; ¼ cup maple syrup or honey; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 large apple, diced; ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Jump to Recipe

There is something truly comforting and satisfying about waking up to a warm and wholesome breakfast that feels both indulgent and nourishing. The Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake brings together tender oats, sweet apples, and a hint of cinnamon in a cozy casserole form that’s perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends. This dish offers a lovely balance of flavors and textures with every bite, delivering a naturally sweet, lightly spiced breakfast that feels like a big, warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, the Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake will quickly become a beloved staple in your morning routine.

Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. Each component works together to give the dish its wonderful texture, flavor, and aroma, while keeping it both nutritious and easy to prepare.

2 cups old-fashioned oats: These provide a hearty, chewy base that holds moisture well for a soft bake.
1 ½ cups milk (or almond milk for dairy-free): This adds creaminess and helps bind the oats as they bake.
1 large apple, diced: Apple chunks bring juicy bursts of sweetness plus a nice contrast in texture.
2 eggs: Eggs create structure, helping the bake set perfectly.
¼ cup maple syrup or honey: Natural sweeteners that enhance the flavor without overpowering it.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to round out the flavor profile.
1 tsp cinnamon: A classic spice that complements apples beautifully, giving the bake its cozy feel.
½ tsp baking powder: Gives the bake a slight lift and lightens the texture.
¼ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds a buttery crunch that’s delightful but not necessary.

How to Make Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your baking dish is key to ensuring the Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake comes out easily without sticking, so a light coating of butter or oil will do the trick perfectly.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract until well combined. This mixture forms the flavorful, rich base that will soak into the oats and apples.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

Next, stir in the old-fashioned oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Mixing these in evenly ensures that every bite gets a balanced hint of spice and perfectly tender texture.

Step 4: Fold in the Apples and Nuts

Gently fold in the diced apples along with the chopped walnuts or pecans if you’re using them. The apple pieces will soften during baking, offering lovely pockets of sweetness, while nuts add a delightful textural crunch.

Step 5: Bake the Mixture

Pour your mixture into the greased dish, spreading it out evenly for consistent cooking. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the surface turns a gorgeous golden brown and the center is fully set—no jiggle should remain.

Step 6: Let It Cool and Get Ready to Enjoy

Once out of the oven, allow the Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake to cool for at least five minutes. This brief pause lets it finish setting and makes it easier to serve warm slices that keep their shape beautifully.

How to Serve Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake

Garnishes

Sprinkle your slices with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of extra maple syrup for a touch of sweetness. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a spoonful of natural nut butter can add creaminess and extra protein, taking the meal to the next level.

Side Dishes

This breakfast bake pairs incredibly well with fresh fruit like berries or citrus segments to brighten the plate. For those wanting savory contrast, crispy turkey bacon or a side of scrambled eggs make an excellent accompaniment.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the bake in individual ramekins for a charming single-serve presentation, perfect for brunch gatherings. For a fun twist, layer slices with yogurt and granola in a parfait glass to mix textures while keeping the delicious flavors intact.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually meld nicely overnight, making leftovers just as tasty the next morning.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead or save portions for later, this bake freezes wonderfully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place slices in freezer-safe bags, then freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes or place wrapped portions in a preheated 350°F oven until heated through. Add a splash of milk or syrup on top for extra moisture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

Quick oats tend to break down more during baking, resulting in a mushier texture. For the ideal balance of chew and structure, old-fashioned oats are best.

Is this breakfast bake gluten-free?

Oats themselves are naturally gluten-free but can be cross-contaminated. Use certified gluten-free oats if you need to keep the dish gluten-free.

Can I substitute the eggs for a vegan option?

Yes! You can replace each egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) to maintain the binding and texture in a plant-based version.

What type of apples work best for this recipe?

Firm apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith hold up well during baking and provide a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.

Can I add other fruits or spices?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in raisins, cranberries, or chopped pears. Spices like nutmeg or allspice also complement the cinnamon and apples beautifully.

Final Thoughts

The Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake is a heartwarming way to start your day, offering a perfect blend of nourishment and cozy flavors. Its simplicity makes it approachable for any cook, yet its inviting taste will have everyone asking for seconds. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and watch how it quickly becomes a go-to morning favorite in your household!

Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 9 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake is a cozy, nutritious morning dish combining wholesome oats, fresh apples, and warming spices. It’s perfect for meal prepping and offers a naturally sweet, dairy-free option that’s easy to customize with your favorite nuts.

Instructions

Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish generously with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until fully combined and slightly frothy.
Combine Dry Ingredients: Stir in the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt into the wet mixture, mixing thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
Add Apples and Nuts: Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped walnuts or pecans, taking care not to overmix to keep the texture hearty.
Pour & Spread: Transfer the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly so it cooks uniformly.
Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is firm to the touch, indicating the bake is cooked through.
Cool & Serve: Allow the bake to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. Enjoy warm for breakfast, or cover and refrigerate for quick reheating throughout the week.

Notes

Use almond milk or any plant-based milk to keep the dish dairy-free.
Substitute maple syrup with honey if you prefer, but note honey is not vegan.
For added sweetness, sprinkle a little brown sugar or drizzle extra maple syrup on top before serving.
Feel free to swap apples for pears or berries depending on seasonal availability.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Adding nuts is optional but adds a pleasant crunch and healthy fats.
This bake is gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free oats.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American