Looking for a delightful start to your weekend? This Baked Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal is a perfect healthy brunch recipe, offering warmth and flavor in every bite. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for a relaxed morning.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Rolled Oats: Do not use instant oats; steel-cut oats will require longer baking.
- Apples: Honeycrisp or Fuji work best. Pears are a good substitute.
- Cinnamon: Freshly ground makes a difference. Nutmeg can be added.
- Maple Syrup: Use honey or agave nectar for a similar sweetness.
- Milk: Any plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat) works perfectly.
Ingredients
Main:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 medium apples, cored and diced
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 cup water
Spices:
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts)
- Dried cranberries or raisins
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 320
- Tools Needed: 8×8 inch baking dish, mixing bowls, whisk.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Baking Dish
Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish. This prevents sticking and ensures easy serving of your healthy brunch recipe. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, diced apples, salt, and ground cinnamon. Stir well to ensure the apples are evenly coated with the cinnamon.
3. Whisk Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, water, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. This creates the liquid base for your baked oatmeal.
4. Assemble the Oatmeal
Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients in the baking dish. Stir gently until everything is just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Bake to Perfection
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the top is lightly golden. Your healthy brunch recipe is almost ready!
6. Serve Warm
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with your favorite optional toppings, like chopped nuts or dried cranberries.
Variation Ideas
- Berry Boost: Add 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen berries (blueberries, raspberries) with the apples.
- Nutty Crunch: Mix in 1/4 cup of chopped almonds or pecans directly into the oatmeal before baking.
- Spiced Orange: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the wet ingredients for a bright flavor.
Storage Instructions
You can store leftover Baked Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions until warm, or add a splash of milk and warm gently on the stovetop. This makes it a great make-ahead healthy brunch recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use instant oats? No, instant oats will become mushy and won’t hold up in this baked recipe. Stick to rolled oats.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, if you use certified gluten-free rolled oats, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Can I prepare this the night before? You can combine the dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately, then combine and bake in the morning for a fresh healthy brunch.
- What if I don’t have maple syrup? Honey or agave nectar are excellent substitutes for the maple syrup.
- Can I add protein powder? You can stir in a scoop of unflavored or vanilla protein powder with the dry ingredients.
- How do I make it sweeter? You can drizzle a little extra maple syrup on top after baking, or add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the dry ingredients.