If you’re searching for a cozy way to kickstart your morning, this Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake wraps all the best breakfast vibes in one warm, inviting dish. With tender apples, hearty oats, and just the right hint of cinnamon, every bite is a celebration of comfort. It’s easy enough for busy weekday breakfasts but special enough for weekend brunch, and best of all, it’s endlessly customizable and family-approved. Let’s make mornings something to look forward to.

Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake are simple, wholesome staples that transform modest components into something truly special. Each one brings its unique character—whether it’s comforting warmth, natural sweetness, or a pop of texture that’ll make you want seconds.

Old-fashioned oats: Provide a hearty, chewy base that holds up beautifully in the bake and adds nourishing fiber.
Milk (or almond milk): Brings creaminess and ensures the oats stay moist; use your favorite for a dairy-free twist.
Large apple, diced: Delivers bursts of sweetness and soft texture throughout the bake, plus a pop of color.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients together so your breakfast bake holds its satisfying shape.
Maple syrup or honey: Lightly sweetens every bite with natural flavor—feel free to pick your favorite.
Vanilla extract: Adds that irresistible bakery-style aroma and enhances the apple flavor.
Cinnamon: A must with apples, it gives warmth and a hint of autumn spice.
Baking powder: Gives the bake a gentle lift and slightly fluffy texture.
Salt: Rounds out the sweetness and brings every flavor forward.
Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Provide savory crunch and a touch of richness—highly recommended for extra texture!

How to Make Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake

Step 1: Preheat & Prep the Baking Dish

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C)—you want it hot and ready when the bake goes in! While it preheats, lightly grease your favorite baking dish (an 8×8 inch works well) with a little butter or nonstick spray. This helps everything release beautifully and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and well-blended. This not only breaks up the eggs but infuses the wet mixture with vanilla sweetness.

Step 3: Stir in Dry Ingredients

Add the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt to your bowl. Stir until everything is thoroughly combined. You’ll see the oats soaking up all the lovely liquid and spice—the foundation of your Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake is coming together!

Step 4: Fold in Apples and Nuts

Gently fold in the diced apples, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the oat mixture. If you’re adding walnuts or pecans, toss those in too. The apples add welcome juiciness and flavor, while the nuts bring the crunch factor.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, using a spatula to spread it into an even layer. Slide it onto your oven’s center rack and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden, the edges are set, and your kitchen smells like paradise.

Step 6: Cool Slightly and Serve

For best results, let your bake cool for at least 5 minutes out of the oven. This helps it set up and makes slicing easier. Serve while still warm, or chill and reheat it later for a grab-and-go breakfast treat.

How to Serve Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake

Garnishes

A generous drizzle of maple syrup or honey just before serving brings extra moisture and shine. A sprinkle of chopped nuts or a delicate dusting of cinnamon makes it look brunch-ready. For extra indulgence, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of cream on top—it’s absolutely dreamy!

Side Dishes

Pair your Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake with something refreshing, like a fruit salad or a simple berry medley. A hot cup of coffee or a spiced chai latte is always welcome alongside. If you’re hosting brunch, serve it with smoked bacon strips or veggie sausage for a perfectly balanced plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the bake into individual squares and serve on a platter for sharing, or spoon it into bowls for a cozy, homey feel. For guests, layer pieces into parfait glasses with yogurt and a sprinkle of granola on top. It also makes a fun mason jar breakfast for picnics and on-the-go mornings!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake, simply cover the cooled leftovers tightly and refrigerate. It keeps beautifully for up to four days—just right for busy mornings or quick snacks. The flavors meld even more as it sits, so don’t be surprised if it tastes even better the next day.

Freezing

For longer storage, slice the cooled bake into portions and wrap each tightly with plastic or foil. Pop them in a freezer bag, label with the date, and freeze for up to two months. When you need a hearty breakfast, just grab a piece or two and you’re on your way.

Reheating

Reheat portions in the microwave for a quick fix (about 30-60 seconds), or warm up a whole pan in a 325°F oven until heated through. If your Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake seems dry, cover with foil and add a splash of milk before reheating to restore moisture.

FAQs

Can I use steel cut or quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

Old-fashioned oats work best for texture, but you can use quick oats in a pinch; just know the bake will be a bit softer. Steel cut oats need significantly more liquid and time, and aren’t recommended without adjustments.

What apple varieties are best for Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake?

Firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji are perfect—they hold their shape and contrast well with the sweet base. Feel free to mix varieties for extra depth!

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg) for the eggs, plant-based milk for dairy milk, and maple syrup for honey. The bake is just as cozy and satisfying.

Is this breakfast bake sweet enough for kids?

Most kiddos adore it as written, but you can easily add extra maple syrup or honey if your family likes things sweeter—or sprinkle chocolate chips into the mix for a treat!

How do I make the Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake nut-free?

Simply leave out the walnuts or pecans. The breakfast bake is deliciously wholesome even without the nuts, making it perfect for those with allergies or nut-free school lunches.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend making this Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake enough—it’s warm, filling, and packed with flavors that make every morning better. I hope you’ll give it a try and see how it quickly becomes a family favorite in your own kitchen!

Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 5 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Wake up to a delicious and wholesome Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake that’s perfect for busy mornings. This easy-to-make dish combines the warmth of oats with sweet apples and crunchy nuts, all baked to perfection.

Instructions

Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
Stir in oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
Fold in diced apples and nuts (if using).
Bake: Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread evenly.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm, or refrigerate and reheat for a quick breakfast.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American