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Ultimate Make-Ahead Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

A square slice of apple cinnamon baked oatmeal with a dark, sugary crumb topping, served on a white plate.
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This baked oatmeal recipe delivers the comforting flavors of apple and cinnamon in a simple, make-ahead breakfast casserole. It is perfect for busy weeks, meal prep, or serving a crowd at brunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned oats work best)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 medium apples, peeled and diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • For Topping: 1 tablespoon melted butter, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and brown sugar. Mix these dry ingredients well.
  3. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, applesauce (or melted butter), and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until everything is just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Gently fold in the diced apples and any optional nuts.
  6. Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  7. For the topping, mix the 1 tablespoon melted butter, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the oatmeal.
  8. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. A knife inserted near the center should come out mostly clean.
  9. Let the baked oatmeal cool for 5 to 10 minutes before cutting into squares.
  10. For make-ahead storage, cool completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat individual portions in the microwave.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use whole milk or a combination of milk and heavy cream.
  • If you prefer a sweeter dish, increase the brown sugar in the main mixture to 1/3 cup.
  • This healthy breakfast casserole reheats well with a splash of extra milk poured over it before microwaving.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yumdrizzle.com/easy-make-ahead-baked-oatmeal-recipe/