Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake Recipe
If you’re craving a cozy, wholesome start to your day, the Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake is here to become your new favorite morning ritual. This delightful dish marries tender oats with sweet, diced apples and warm cinnamon, all baked into a comforting casserole that’s both nourishing and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weekday or a leisurely weekend brunch, this bake makes breakfast feel like a special occasion without any fuss. It’s simple, heartwarming, and packed with flavors that feel like a warm hug in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is the first step to enjoying your Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake. Each component plays a vital role: oats provide a hearty base, apples add natural sweetness and juicy texture, and spices like cinnamon bring that inviting warmth that wakes up your taste buds.
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats: The foundation of the bake, offering chewy texture and fiber-packed goodness.
- 1 ½ cups milk (or almond milk for dairy-free): Creamy liquid that blends everything together and keeps the bake moist.
- 1 large apple, diced: Adds a burst of natural sweetness and a fresh, fruity crunch.
- 2 eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients and giving the bake its fluffy structure.
- ¼ cup maple syrup or honey: A touch of natural sweetness that complements the apples perfectly.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses a subtle aromatic note enhancing the overall flavor.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: Brings warm spice that pairs beautifully with apples and oats.
- ½ tsp baking powder: Helps the bake rise for a light and tender texture.
- ¼ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and deepens the flavors.
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds crunch and a nutty richness if you want that extra layer of texture.
How to Make Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This steady temperature will ensure your oatmeal apple breakfast bake cooks evenly and develops that beautiful golden crust. Lightly grease your baking dish to keep the bake from sticking and to help it brown nicely on the edges.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract until they’re thoroughly combined. This mixture is the flavorful and binding agent that brings the oats and apples together into a perfect breakfast medley.
Step 3: Mix in the Dry Ingredients
Next, stir in the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. The oats will soak up the liquids, while the baking powder helps the bake rise just enough to keep it light without being cakey. Cinnamon infuses the dish with its signature warmth, and salt enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
Step 4: Fold in the Apples and Nuts
Gently fold in the diced apples and nuts, if you’re using them. The apples will soften during baking, becoming tender and sweet, while the nuts provide a delightful crunch that gives every bite some exciting texture.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Set
Pour the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Pop it into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns a gorgeous golden color and the center is set—no longer jiggly, but still moist and satisfying.
Step 6: Cool Slightly Before Enjoying
Once out of the oven, let your Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake cool for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the bake to set a little more and makes it easier to cut and serve. Then, dive in warm for that comforting breakfast treat.
How to Serve Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake

Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a few fresh apple slices on top for a pretty presentation. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of extra maple syrup also pairs wonderfully, elevating each bite with creaminess and sweetness.
Side Dishes
This bake shines as a standalone breakfast, but it also pairs nicely with some fresh fruit salad or a side of scrambled eggs for a protein boost. For the perfect cozy brunch, add a hot cup of coffee or chai tea alongside.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in ramekins for a charming personal touch. You could also layer leftovers with yogurt and granola to create a quick parfait, keeping breakfast exciting even on busy mornings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 4 days, making it a convenient option for quick breakfasts throughout the week.
Freezing
This bake freezes beautifully! Slice it into portions, wrap each one tightly, and store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftover portions in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes or until warmed through. If you prefer, pop them in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 10-15 minutes for that fresh-from-the-oven feel. A quick reheat preserves that cozy texture and flavor every time.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Absolutely! Pears or berries are great substitutes that bring their own unique sweetness and texture to the bake. Just keep in mind the moisture content, as it might slightly affect baking time.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be if you use certified gluten-free oats. Regular oats are often processed in facilities that handle gluten, so double-check the packaging if gluten sensitivity is a concern.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes! Swap the eggs with flax eggs (one tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with three tablespoons water equals one egg) and use plant-based milk and maple syrup. The texture will be slightly different, but still delicious.
How do I prevent the bake from being too dry?
Make sure to measure your oats and milk accurately and don’t over-bake it. The center should be set but still moist; if it looks dry, reduce the baking time by a few minutes next time.
Can I prepare this the night before?
You can mix all the ingredients and keep the batter in the fridge overnight. When ready, pour it into the baking dish and bake fresh in the morning for a quick, hassle-free breakfast.
Final Thoughts
I truly believe the Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake is one of those breakfast gems that keeps you coming back for more. It’s easy to make, wholesome, and tastes like a little slice of morning comfort. So, go ahead—try this recipe and make your mornings a bit sweeter and a lot cozier. You’ll thank yourself later!
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Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake is a cozy, nutritious, and delicious morning dish perfect for busy weekdays or relaxed weekend breakfasts. Combining wholesome oats, sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and a touch of maple syrup, it offers a comforting texture and naturally sweet flavor. Suitable for gluten-free and vegetarian diets when using almond milk, this bake is easy to prepare ahead and enjoy warm or cold.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 ½ cups milk (or almond milk for dairy-free)
- 1 large apple, diced
- 2 eggs
- ¼ cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
Optional Ingredients
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until fully combined and smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt to the wet mixture, blending thoroughly to distribute all dry ingredients evenly.
- Add Apples and Nuts: Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped walnuts or pecans if you choose to use them, ensuring they’re evenly spread throughout the mixture.
- Bake the Mixture: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Cooking Time: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and the center is set but still moist.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bake to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm for the best taste, or refrigerate any leftovers and reheat for a convenient morning option.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute regular milk with almond or oat milk.
- Use honey instead of maple syrup if preferred, but avoid serving honey to children under one year old.
- Adding chopped nuts increases protein and healthy fats while adding a pleasant crunch.
- Make sure the apple is diced small enough to cook through during the bake.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 1/6 of the bake)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: oatmeal bake, breakfast bake, apple breakfast, healthy breakfast, baked oats, gluten free breakfast option, vegetarian breakfast, easy breakfast recipe