Healthy Baked Apple Oatmeal

Name: Healthy Baked Apple Oatmeal
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 2 cups milk (almond, oat, or dairy); 2 medium apples, diced; 1/2 cup brown sugar or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional); Yogurt; Nut butter; Fresh fruit; Maple syrup

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Food Favorites

I absolutely love starting my mornings with this Healthy Baked Apple Oatmeal. It’s a nutritious and delicious way to enjoy oatmeal, packed with flavors of cinnamon and sweet apples. This recipe has become a family favorite because it's not only easy to prepare but also customizable. I can make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it during the week. The combination of baked apples and hearty oats gives me the perfect energy boost to tackle my day.

Created by

Ottoline Reeves

Last updated on 2026-02-02T01:41:35.506Z

When I tried making oatmeal in a baked form, I was pleasantly surprised by how the flavors melded together in the oven. The apples become tender and caramelized, while the oats offer a lovely texture. I even experimented with different types of apples, and my favorite has to be Granny Smith for that perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

A tip I found useful is to let the mixture sit for a bit before baking, allowing the oats to soak up the milk and flavors. This makes the oatmeal creamier and more satisfying. I also like to serve it with a splash of almond milk for extra creaminess!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Warm, comforting flavors that remind you of home
Nutritious and filling, keeping you satisfied for hours
Easily adaptable with various toppings

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this Healthy Baked Apple Oatmeal lies in the combination of rolled oats and milk. Rolled oats are not only rich in fiber, but they also absorb the liquid as they cook, resulting in a creamy and hearty texture. Using a plant-based milk like almond or oat can add a subtle flavor profile; however, dairy milk works equally well if you prefer a creamier consistency. Ensure that the oats are rolled rather than instant to achieve the best texture.

Diced apples add natural sweetness and moisture to the recipe. When choosing apples, opt for a variety that holds its shape well during baking, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Their slight tartness balances the sweetness of the brown sugar or maple syrup. If you're looking to add variety, feel free to incorporate diced pears or berries, adjusting the sugar accordingly based on their sweetness.

Baking Tips for Perfect Texture

When mixing the ingredients, it’s essential to combine them evenly to ensure consistent flavor throughout your baked oatmeal. I recommend using a whisk to blend the dry ingredients before adding the wet ones, as this helps in preventing clumps and ensures even distribution of baking powder, which is crucial for achieving that lovely rise and fluffy texture. Don’t be surprised by the batter’s initial consistency; it thickens during baking, setting up beautifully.

Keep a close eye on the baking time as ovens can vary. You’re looking for a golden-brown top with slightly puffed edges. If the center appears wet after the initial 30 minutes, give it an additional 5-10 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Allowing the oatmeal to cool slightly enhances its texture, making it easier to slice into squares for serving.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this wholesome dish:

For the Baked Oatmeal

2 cups rolled oats
2 cups milk (almond, oat, or dairy)
2 medium apples, diced
1/2 cup brown sugar or maple syrup
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)

For Serving (optional)

Yogurt
Nut butter
Fresh fruit
Maple syrup

Feel free to mix in your favorite add-ins or toppings!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your healthy baked oatmeal:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.

Prepare the Oat Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, milk, diced apples, brown sugar or maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, and salt. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.

Add Optional Ingredients

If you want to add nuts, fold them into the mixture now.

Bake

Pour the oat mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serve

Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with your choice of yogurt, nut butter, or maple syrup.

Enjoy this delicious baked oatmeal warm or cold, perfect for a quick breakfast!

Pro Tips

You can make this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a quick breakfast option throughout the week. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for convenience.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Healthy Baked Apple Oatmeal is an excellent option for meal prep. You can prepare the oat mixture the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it fresh in the morning. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or until warmed through, perfect for busy mornings when you want a quick, nutritious breakfast.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions. Allow the baked oatmeal to cool completely, then cut it into squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as desired.

Creative Serving Suggestions

Serving this baked oatmeal can be as simple or as elaborate as you’d like! A dollop of plain yogurt or a drizzle of nut butter adds creaminess and healthy fats, which enhance the dish's satiety. If you’re feeling indulgent, a splash of maple syrup over the top elevates the sweet flavors beautifully, creating a cozy morning treat.

For an even fruitier profile, consider topping with slices of fresh apple or a handful of berries right before serving. These fresh elements not only improve presentation but also add vibrant flavors that contrast nicely with the warm, spiced oatmeal, keeping things exciting as you enjoy this comforting dish throughout the week.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

I recommend using rolled oats for the best texture, but you can use quick oats if you're in a pinch; just adjust the baking time.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat them in the microwave before serving.

→ Can I substitute the dairy milk?

Absolutely! Almond milk, oat milk, or any non-dairy milk work perfectly in this recipe.

→ What fruits can I add?

Feel free to mix in other fruits like berries, bananas, or pears for added flavor and nutrition.