Smart Recipe Kitchen

2026-05-01

This baked cinnamon apple oatmeal is a useful make-ahead breakfast that reheats well and feels more substantial than a bowl of stovetop oats. Apples add sweetness and texture, and the baked format makes it easy to portion. Serves 6.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups old-fashioned oats
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 apples, peeled and diced
• 2 eggs
• 1 3/4 cups milk
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans, optional

Instructions:

1. Heat oven to 375°F and grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in the diced apples.
3. In another bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, maple syrup, melted butter, and vanilla.
4. Pour the wet mixture into the oat mixture and stir to combine. Fold in nuts if using.
5. Spread into the baking dish and bake 35 to 40 minutes until set and lightly golden.
6. Cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Why it works:

Baking gives the oats structure, so the breakfast holds together well for meal prep and easy reheating.

Timing:

Prep 12 minutes, bake 38 minutes, total about 50 minutes.