Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with a little of the melted butter to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, cinnamon, and salt, stirring until well mixed. This creates an aromatic, evenly seasoned dry base for your baked oatmeal.
- Add the milk and maple syrup to the dry ingredients, stirring until the mixture is smooth and cohesive. The mixture will be slightly thick but pourable, with the oats starting to absorb the liquid.
- Gently fold in the diced apple pieces, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. The apples will begin releasing moisture, enhancing the dish's tenderness.
- Pour the combined mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with the back of a spoon or spatula. This helps create a uniform thickness for even baking.
- Sprinkle a few small dollops of melted butter on top of the mixture for a golden, crispy crust. Place the dish into the preheated oven.
- Bake the oatmeal for about 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling gently at the edges. You’ll notice it turning from moist to slightly crispy on top, with the center set and tender.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. The top should be lightly crispy, while the inside remains soft and steaming with apple chunks.
- Scoop out generous portions, serve warm with a drizzle of extra maple syrup or a splash of milk if desired. The dish offers a hearty bite, with chewy oats, tender apple pieces, and a warm cinnamon aroma.
Notes
Feel free to customize with nuts, raisins, or other seasonal fruits for added texture and flavor.