Healthy Baked Apple Oatmeal
Highlighted under: Fresh Wellness Recipes
I love starting my day with Healthy Baked Apple Oatmeal. This recipe combines the warmth of cinnamon with the natural sweetness of apples, creating a comforting breakfast that's both nutritious and delicious. The best part is how easy it is to make; just mix the ingredients, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen! Every bite is filled with hearty oats and tender fruit, making it a satisfying meal that keeps me energized until lunch. Plus, it’s perfect for meal-prepping for the week ahead!
When I first tried making baked oatmeal, I was surprised at how simple and satisfying it could be. Combining oats with diced apples and cinnamon results in a dish that is not only wholesome but also deeply comforting. I prefer using fresh, juicy apples for this recipe as they bring a burst of flavor and moisture that is simply irresistible.
I learned that letting the oatmeal sit for a few minutes before slicing allows it to set perfectly, making it easier to serve. This recipe is such a great way to start my mornings, and it’s also a hit with my family during weekend brunches!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Wholesome oats packed with fiber and nutrients
- Naturally sweetened with fresh apples and honey
- Easily customizable with your favorite nuts or spices
Ingredient Insights
The heart of this Healthy Baked Apple Oatmeal lies in the rolled oats. They provide not only a wonderful chewy texture but are also a superb source of fiber, which helps you feel full longer. When selecting oats, make sure to opt for rolled oats rather than instant or steel-cut, as rolled oats will absorb the liquid more effectively during baking, resulting in the perfect consistency.
Fresh apples are vital for the natural sweetness and juicy texture of this dish. You can experiment with different varieties to change the flavor profile—for a sweeter oatmeal, use Honeycrisp or Fuji apples, and for a tangier bite, opt for Granny Smith. Remember to dice the apples into small pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the oatmeal.
Baking Techniques
Preheating your oven is crucial for achieving the best texture. A preheated oven ensures that the oatmeal bakes uniformly, helping it to rise slightly and develop a golden top. If you want to test if it's baked through, a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, with no wet batter clinging to it.
Another key tip is to allow the baked oatmeal to cool slightly before slicing. This resting time helps the oatmeal set, making it easier to cut into neat squares. If you notice that the edges brown too quickly, consider covering the dish with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create this delicious baked apple oatmeal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 large apples, diced
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1 cup water
With these ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from a delightful breakfast!
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to making your Healthy Baked Apple Oatmeal.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, diced apples, milk, honey or maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, eggs, vanilla extract, and water.
Add Nuts
If using, fold in the chopped nuts for added crunch.
Bake
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and set.
Cool and Serve
Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, with a drizzle of additional honey if desired.
This baked oatmeal is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for a quick reheat!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other fruits like pears or berries, or by mixing in some chocolate chips for a sweeter twist!
Storage and Meal Prep
This dish is ideal for meal prepping since it keeps well in the fridge. Once cooled, you can store the baked oatmeal in an airtight container for up to five days. Each morning, simply reheat a portion in the microwave or warm it gently in the oven for a quick breakfast option.
If you're looking to make a larger batch, this recipe can easily be doubled. Just use a larger baking dish and increase the baking time by about 5-10 minutes, keeping an eye on the top for that beautiful golden color.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Healthy Baked Apple Oatmeal warm, topped with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess. You can also sprinkle some additional cinnamon or nuts on top for an extra crunch and flavor boost. Fresh blueberries or sliced bananas also make lovely toppings, adding both color and variety.
For a cozy brunch, consider pairing the oatmeal with a serving of warm apple cider or a hot cup of herbal tea. It elevates the whole experience and complements the cinnamon and apple flavors beautifully.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I substitute the honey?
Yes, you can use maple syrup or agave syrup instead.
→ How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
→ Can I make this vegan?
Yes! Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based milk.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Make sure to use certified gluten-free oats if you require a gluten-free recipe.
Healthy Baked Apple Oatmeal
I love starting my day with Healthy Baked Apple Oatmeal. This recipe combines the warmth of cinnamon with the natural sweetness of apples, creating a comforting breakfast that's both nutritious and delicious. The best part is how easy it is to make; just mix the ingredients, pop it in the oven, and let the magic happen! Every bite is filled with hearty oats and tender fruit, making it a satisfying meal that keeps me energized until lunch. Plus, it’s perfect for meal-prepping for the week ahead!
Created by: Freya Cooper
Recipe Type: Fresh Wellness Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 large apples, diced
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1 cup water
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, diced apples, milk, honey or maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, eggs, vanilla extract, and water.
If using, fold in the chopped nuts for added crunch.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and set.
Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, with a drizzle of additional honey if desired.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other fruits like pears or berries, or by mixing in some chocolate chips for a sweeter twist!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 80mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 6g