Delicious Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe

If you’re searching for a comforting, healthy breakfast option that can be made ahead of time, look no further than our Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe. This dish is not just a delightful way to start your day but also a celebration of timeless flavors that many of us love. Imagine waking up to the warm aroma of spiced apples and cinnamon wafting through your kitchen!

The Origins of Baked Oatmeal

Baked oatmeal has its roots in traditional breakfast dishes that date back centuries. Often associated with hearty, rustic kitchens, baked oatmeal combines oats, milk, and eggs baked together for a filling meal. The simplicity and versatility of this dish made it popular among many cultures, especially in North America. Early settlers utilized oats for their nutritional value and ease of cultivation, leading to this cozy dish becoming a staple in many households.

Adding ingredients like fruits, nuts, and spices has transformed baked oatmeal into a canvas for countless flavor combinations. Our recipe focuses on the beloved duo of apples and cinnamon, creating a mouthwatering, wholesome breakfast that pays homage to these humble origins while offering modern flair.

Ingredients for Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

Step-by-Step Directions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step directions to create this delightful Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oatmeal bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease a 9×9 inch (or similar size) baking dish with butter or oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Mix these ingredients well to ensure that the baking powder and cinnamon are evenly distributed throughout the oats.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the milk, honey or maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is combined. The batter might seem runny, but that’s just how it’s meant to be!

Step 6: Add Apples and Nuts

Fold in the diced apples and nuts (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 7: Bake

Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden and the oatmeal has set.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the oatmeal cool for a few minutes before cutting it into squares. Serve warm with a drizzle of additional honey or maple syrup if desired. Enjoy!

FAQ

1. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! To make this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal recipe vegan, simply substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg) and use a non-dairy milk, like almond milk or coconut milk. You can also use agave syrup or another vegan sweetener instead of honey.

2. Can I prepare this oatmeal ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the oatmeal batter the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just pour it into the baking dish and bake it in the morning, or you can bake it the night before and reheat it in the morning. This is perfect for busy weekdays!

3. Can I add other fruits or nuts?

Definitely! This baked oatmeal is very versatile. You can add other fruits like berries, bananas, or pears, and it works well with different nuts like almonds or pecans. Feel free to create your own combinations based on what you have on hand!

With this Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe, you can transform your mornings into a warm, inviting experience filled with the flavors of fall. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or reheated throughout the week, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Happy baking!