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Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Beats Any Scented Candle.

Published: Nov 11, 2026 by Kori Butler · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

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Baked oatmeal with apples and cinnamon is the kind of cozy breakfast that makes your kitchen smell like fall. With warm cinnamon, tender diced apples, and just the right touch of sweetness, this baked oatmeal recipe is perfect for slow mornings or making ahead for meal prep.

Cinnamon apple baked oatmeal in a white square bowl.
Jump to:
  • The backstory.
  • Cinnamon apple baked oatmeal is a must-make.
  • Let’s talk texture and flavor.
  • What you'll need.
  • Customize it your way.
  • Flexible dietary swaps.
  • How to make baked apple cinnamon oatmeal.
  • How to enjoy them.
  • Kori's tips.
  • FAQs
  • More mostly meatless meals.

The backstory.

I created these apple cinnamon baked oats on a crisp fall morning when my kitchen smelled like apple pie but I wanted something hearty enough for breakfast. It felt like the perfect excuse to bring together two of my favorites—warm baked oatmeal and spiced apples—into one cozy dish. Now it’s a go-to recipe whenever I’m craving a comforting breakfast that also works beautifully for meal prep.

xoxo Kori

Cinnamon apple baked oatmeal is a must-make.

Here’s why you’ll want to return to this apple cinnamon baked oatmeal again and again:

  • Easy to make – just mix, bake, and enjoy, no complicated steps required.
  • Perfect for meal prep – bake once and have ready-to-heat breakfasts for the week.
  • Family-friendly – its lightly sweet flavor and cozy texture make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
  • Healthy comfort food – wholesome oats, apples, and cinnamon come together in a nourishing breakfast that still feels like a treat.

Apple pie for breakfast? Yes, please. These baked oats are basically a cozy hug in a bowl!

Let’s talk texture and flavor.

Imagine the warm aroma of cinnamon baked with sweet apples filling your kitchen. The oats are soft and custard-like in the center with golden, caramelized edges that make each slice irresistible. Every bite has tender baked apple pieces, a hint of vanilla, and a light sweetness that pairs perfectly with a drizzle of maple syrup. It’s hearty, creamy, and comforting all at once.

What you'll need.

Here's what you're going to need to make baked oatmeal with apples and cinnamon:

  • Ground flaxseed + water: works as an egg replacer for a vegan version, though regular eggs can also be used.
  • Oat milk: (or your preferred milk choice) adds creaminess and makes the oatmeal bake moist and tender. Almond milk or vanilla almond milk are delicious alternatives.
  • Granulated sugar or maple syrup: lightly sweetens the oats without being overpowering.
  • Vanilla extract: enhances the warm flavors and balances the sweetness.
  • Old-fashioned oats: the heart of this baked oatmeal recipe, creating a hearty and filling base.
  • Ground cinnamon: brings warmth and spice, pairing perfectly with apples.
  • Baking powder: helps the oatmeal puff slightly and set as it bakes.
  • Chopped toasted nuts: adds crunch and richness; use pecans, walnuts, or almonds.
  • Table salt: enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
  • Apples: peeled and diced, they become soft and sweet as they bake.
  • Brown sugar: sprinkled on top and broiled for a golden, caramelized crust.

Love a baked oatmeal? My Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal is perfect for fall mornings, and my Apple Tahini No Bake Energy Bites pack the same apple and oat flavor into an easy snack.

Customize it your way.

This baked apple oatmeal recipe is easy to adapt so you can make it your own:

  • Swap the apples for pears if you’re craving a softer, slightly floral twist.
  • Toss in dried cranberries or raisins for sweet little bursts in every bite.
  • Use agave nectar instead of maple syrup for a lighter, more mellow sweetness.
  • Stir in shredded coconut for a hint of tropical flavor and extra texture.
  • Need it nut-free? Swap the nuts for pumpkin or sunflower seeds for that same crunch.
  • Sprinkle in some mini chocolate chips to make it feel like a cozy little treat.
  • Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a subtle bakery vibe.
  • Swirl in almond or peanut butter before baking for extra richness and staying power.
  • Try vanilla almond milk instead of oat milk if you prefer a slightly sweeter taste.
  • Mash in a ripe banana for natural sweetness and an extra creamy texture

Flexible dietary swaps.

Here are some easy ways to adapt this baked apple cinnamon oatmeal for different dietary needs:

  • Dairy-free – use almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk, and swap butter for coconut oil.
  • Nut-free – simply omit the nuts or substitute with seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin.
  • Gluten-free – use certified gluten-free oats and gluten-free baking powder.

How to make baked apple cinnamon oatmeal.

Let’s get right into it—here’s how to make your new favorite baked oatmeal:

Whisk

In a large bowl, whisk together milk, sugar, vanilla, flax mixture (or egg), oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the nuts and apple.

Bake

Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake until it is done.

Broil

Remove from oven and top with brown sugar. Broil until done.

How to enjoy them.

However you like your oatmeal, this one’s ready to deliver—warm, cold, dressed up, or just as is:

  • Warmed up with a splash of oat milk and a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
  • Sliced into squares and packed in a lunchbox for a healthy grab-and-go snack.
  • Topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of maple syrup for extra protein.
  • Served cold straight from the fridge—yes, it’s just as good chilled.
  • Turned into a quick breakfast parfait with layers of yogurt and fresh fruit.
  • Dressed up with whipped cream and caramel sauce for a fun weekend brunch.
  • Chopped into chunks and tossed into a bowl with warm apples and cinnamon butter.
  • Enjoyed as a late-night treat with a spoonful of peanut butter or nut butter on top.
  • Make it flex – serve it with chicken apple sausage on the side for a hearty brunch.

Kori's tips.

  • Use sweet, crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji for the best flavor and texture.
  • Dice the apples into small pieces so they bake evenly into the oats.
  • Let the oatmeal rest after baking—it firms up as it cools and slices more cleanly.
  • For a richer version, mix in a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt or cream cheese before baking.

FAQs

What is the best way to store it?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze it?

Yes! Slice into portions, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

What’s the best way to reheat it?

Warm individual slices in the microwave with a splash of milk, or cover with foil and reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?

Not for this recipe. Steel-cut oats take much longer to cook and won’t set properly in this oatmeal bake.

📌 Be sure to save this pin to Pinterest for later!

Can I ask you a favor?

If you tried this recipe, let me know! I'd love for you to come back and give the recipe a 5 star rating and leave a review in the comments! 🙂

Want more easy dinners? Grab my FREE 5-night mostly meatless dinner plan and get new recipes in your inbox.

Cinnamon apple baked oatmeal in a white square bowl.

Cinnamon Apple Baked Oatmeal

These apple cinnamon baked oats are warm, cozy, and full of comforting fall flavors. Tender apples, cinnamon spice, and a caramelized brown sugar topping make this breakfast feel like dessert—but with wholesome oats to keep you satisfied.
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Print Recipe
Author Kori Butler
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 55 minutes mins
Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 9
Calories 234 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons ground flax and 6 tablespoons of water (or use 2 eggs)
  • 3½ cups milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar (or 1½ to 2 tablespoons of maple syrup or agave nectar)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2¼ cups old fashioned oats
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder (use gluten-free if needed)
  • ⅓ cup chopped toasted nuts (may be omitted; almonds, walnuts, or pecans may be used)
  • ¼ teaspoon table salt
  • 1 large apple (peeled and diced)
  • ¼ cup firmly packed brown sugar

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350º F. Grease an 8-inch square baking dish with nonstick spray.
  • If using a flax egg: whisk together the flax meal and water. Let sit until it becomes gelatinous about 10 minutes.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together egg or flax egg, milk of choice, sugar, vanilla, flax meal mixture, oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the nuts and apple.
  • Pour into the baking dish. Bake for 40 to 55 minutes or until the center jiggles only slightly. (Note that the outside will start to puff first, and then the inside will follow. At the point the inside is equally puffy, the center should then be just slightly jiggly, and that's when it's done.)
  • Set oven to broil. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the top of the oatmeal, spreading with a spoon to cover the surface.
  • Broil the oatmeal 4 inches from the heat until sugar bubbles and browns slightly, 1 to 2 minutes. (Watch carefully to prevent burning.)
  • Remove the oats from the oven and let sit for about 10 minutes before serving. The oats will firm up as they sit. Serve warm with a drizzle of milk of choice, sweeten to taste with additional brown sugar or maple syrup sprinkled over the top.

Kori's Tips

For more helpful hints, substitution ideas, cooking tips, and other delicious recipes check out my post above.
TIPS: Use a sweet, crisp apple such as Honeycrisp or Fuji. Dice the apples small so they bake evenly. Let the oatmeal rest after baking, because it firms up as it cools and slices more cleanly.
VARIATIONS: Swap the apples for pears, or stir in raisins or dried cranberries. Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for deeper fall flavor. For a richer version, mix in a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt or cream cheese before baking.
MAKE IT FLEX: Serve it with chicken apple sausage on the side for a hearty brunch.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS: Serve warm with a splash of milk, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a dollop of whipped cream. It is also delicious chilled. Pair with Greek yogurt, nut butter, or a tofu scramble for added protein.

Nutrition

Calories: 234kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 5gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 160mgPotassium: 229mgFiber: 4gSugar: 23gVitamin A: 211IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 189mgIron: 2mg
DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?I'd love to hear how it turned out! Leave a star rating and a comment below. Your feedback helps me and my readers.

© 2026 Flexitarian Eats

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Kori Butler, founder of Flexitarian Eats

Hey there, I'm Kori.

I'm a culinary school-trained chef specializing in holistic wellness and nutrition. Here at Flexitarian Eats, I share mostly meatless recipes for real life: make-ahead breakfasts, hearty bean and lentil dinners, and filling soups and salads, with room for meat whenever you want it.

More about me

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