Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this oatmeal bake because it’s so versatile and comforting. It’s packed with the sweetness of apples, and the texture is perfectly soft and filling. The oats provide a hearty base, while the almond milk and coconut oil add a rich, creamy flavor. The maple syrup gives it just the right amount of natural sweetness, and the cinnamon adds warmth and depth. It’s an easy, one-pan breakfast that can be made in advance, making mornings much easier and more enjoyable.

Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats

• 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced

• ½ cup almond milk (or any milk of choice)

• ¼ cup maple syrup

• ¼ cup coconut oil, melted

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  (Hint: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similar-sized pan.

2. In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, diced apples, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond milk, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.

4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and mix well to combine.

5. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oatmeal is set.

7. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice into squares and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings, depending on how large you cut the squares. Prep time is around 10 minutes, and baking time takes 35-40 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick breakfast or a wholesome snack, and it can easily be made ahead of time for a grab-and-go option.

Variations

This oatmeal bake is easy to customize based on your preferences:

• For a nutty crunch, I like to sprinkle some chopped walnuts or almonds on top before baking.

• If you love dried fruit, you can add raisins or cranberries to the mixture for an extra burst of sweetness.

• To make it even richer, you can swap the almond milk with coconut milk or add a dollop of yogurt on top when serving.

Storage/Reheating

The Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake stores well in an airtight container. I usually keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It’s easy to reheat in the microwave or in a warm oven, making it perfect for meal prep. For a quick breakfast, I simply pop a slice in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Yes, you can! Pears, berries, or even mashed bananas would work well as substitutes for apples. Just be sure to adjust the baking time depending on the fruit you use, as some fruits may release more moisture than others.

Can I make this oatmeal bake ahead of time?

Definitely! This oatmeal bake is a great make-ahead breakfast. I often prepare it the night before, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. Then, I can simply reheat it in the morning for a quick, nutritious start to my day.

Can I add protein to this oatmeal bake?

Yes, you can easily add protein by mixing in some protein powder or chia seeds. If you’re adding protein powder, I suggest using a flavor that complements the cinnamon and apple, like vanilla or a plant-based protein.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just make sure to use certified gluten-free rolled oats if you need to make this recipe gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I freeze the oatmeal bake?

Yes! You can freeze the baked oatmeal for up to 2-3 months. I usually slice it into individual portions, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and then store them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, just thaw overnight in the fridge or heat it directly from frozen in the microwave.

Conclusion

This Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake is the perfect combination of wholesome ingredients, comforting flavors, and natural sweetness. It’s a versatile, easy-to-make breakfast or snack that’s perfect for meal prepping and can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or reheating it later, it’s always a satisfying and nutritious choice to start your day. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of fall any time of year!