Every fall, I find myself craving cozy breakfasts that feel like a warm hug without the sugar crash. This baked oatmeal, infused with fragrant cinnamon and crisp apple chunks, transforms simple ingredients into a nourishing treat. It’s an effortless way to start the day with comfort—minus the guilt.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. It can be made ahead and heated up on busy mornings or enjoyed cold for a quick, wholesome snack. The gentle aroma of baked apples and cinnamon wafting through the kitchen makes every morning feel like a celebration.

WHY I LOVE THIS RECIPE?

I adore using seasonal apples to bring a natural sweetness and crunch.

The aroma of cinnamon fills the house and instantly lifts my mood.
This dish is packed with fiber and healthy oats, fueling my mornings.

It reminds me of my childhood kitchen, cozy and full of comforting smells.
Convenient and forgiving—perfect for busy days when I want something wholesome effortlessly.

AVOID MY DISASTER (You’re Welcome)

FORGOT to grease the baking dish—clinging oats and an extra scrub, yuck. Grease well.
DUMPED too much cinnamon—made the batter bitter. Measure carefully next time.

OVER‑TORCHED the topping—sent a smoky smell through the house. Keep an eye on the oven.
LEFT the apples unpeeled—biting into skins was a surprise. Peel or thinly slice.

QUICK FIXES THAT SAVE YOUR DAY

When batter is too thick, SPLASH in a little more almond milk and stir gently.
PATCH a dry top with a drizzle of honey before serving—the shimmer is inviting.
WHEN apples aren’t sweet enough, SHIELD the edges with a sprinkle of sugar.

FELL into a quick burn? DAMPEN with foil and lower the rack for 10 minutes.
Running out of oats? PANTRY swap in crushed nuts for a crunchy twist.

This baked oatmeal is a gentle reminder that nourishing foods can be just as delightful as indulgent treats. With seasonal apples and warming spices, it feels timely and comforting—perfect for this transition into cooler days.

Making this dish is about more than just a healthy start. It’s about creating a moment of peace in a hectic morning routine, a simple pleasure that everyone appreciates. Whether for breakfast or a cozy snack, it proves that wholesome can also be wonderfully satisfying.

Baked Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal

This baked oatmeal combines hearty oats with fragrant cinnamon and crisp apple chunks, resulting in a tender, sliceable dish with a golden-brown top. It is assembled and baked until bubbling and lightly caramelized, creating a comforting breakfast or snack with a slightly chewy texture and warm aroma.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 35

Total Time 45

Servings: 4

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
1 large egg
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 large apples (preferably Fuji or Gala) peeled, cored, and diced

Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking dish
Measuring cups
Knife
Cutting board
Spoon or spatula

Method

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with a little butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the oats, cinnamon, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. This creates a flavorful dry base.
In a separate bowl, beat the egg, then stir in the milk and melted butter until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy. This forms the wet mixture that will hydrate the oats.
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients, stirring gently to combine without overmixing. The batter should be slightly thick but pourable.

Fold in the diced apples, distributing them evenly throughout the batter. The apple pieces should be visible and coated with the mixture.
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon. The mixture should fill the dish without overflowing.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the mixture is bubbling around the edges. The baking house will fill with a warm cinnamon aroma.

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly for 5 minutes. The oatmeal will set further as it cools, making it easier to slice.
Slice into squares or scoops, and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy the cozy, fragrant baked oatmeal as a hearty breakfast or snack.

Notes

For added texture, sprinkle some chopped nuts or a drizzle of honey before serving. Feel free to swap in different types of apples or adjust cinnamon to taste.

As the fragrance of cinnamon and baked apples fills your kitchen, you’ll realize how easy it is to embrace healthy habits in the most comforting way. This dish is a gentle nudge towards mindful eating, especially as the seasons turn and we seek warmth and nourishment.

Enjoying this warm, wholesome oatmeal might become your new favorite ritual—something that quietly anchors busy mornings with a familiar, cozy sense of well-being. It’s a small act of self-care that fits beautifully into any season, any schedule.

Anjali Arora

Hi, I’m Anjali Arora — the curious heart behind Feast Chase.

To be honest, I’ve always felt most at ease in my own company. I’m not exactly a people-person (small talk still makes me cringe), but there are two things I’ve always loved deeply: animals and food.