Apple Baked Oats This warm and cozy apple cinnamon baked oatmeal is inspired by classic Amish flavors and makes a wholesome, satisfying breakfast for fall or any time of year. Packed with tender apples, juicy raisins, and aromatic cinnamon, this easy one-bowl recipe is vegan, gluten-free, and perfect for meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect for fall with cozy cinnamon spice and apple flavor
Meal-prep friendly: make once, enjoy all week
One-bowl recipe = minimal cleanup
Vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, and nut-free
Delicious served warm with maple syrup or a drizzle of almond butter

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups rolled old-fashioned oats
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon sea salt
2 cups non-dairy milk (e.g., unsweetened vanilla almond milk)
½ cup unsweetened applesauce
¼ cup maple syrup
1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
1 tablespoon coconut oil (or other neutral oil)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup diced apple, divided
½ cup raisins

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
In a large bowl, mix together rolled oats, cinnamon, baking powder, salt, almond milk, applesauce, maple syrup, flaxseed, coconut oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Fold in the raisins and ¾ cup of the diced apples.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining ¼ cup of diced apples.
Bake for about 40 minutes or until the center is set and a toothpick comes out clean.
Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with your favorite toppings like nut butter, maple syrup, or a splash of milk.

Servings and timing

Serves: 6
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

Oats: Stick to rolled oats. Quick oats or steel-cut oats require different liquid ratios and baking times.
Milk: Use any non-dairy milk like oat, soy, or coconut milk based on your preference.
Sweetener: Swap maple syrup with honey or agave for a different taste.
Flaxseed: Chia seeds or a regular egg (if not vegan) can be used instead.
Coconut oil: Replace with avocado oil or leave it out entirely for an oil-free version.
Dried fruits: Substitute raisins with cranberries, chopped dates, or dried apricots.
Add nuts: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
Spices: Boost the fall flavor with a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, allspice, or apple pie spice.

Storage / Reheating

Refrigerator: Store baked oatmeal in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Let cool completely before freezing.
Reheat:
- Whole pan: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes.
- Single serving: Microwave for 1 minute or bake in a toaster oven at 350°F for 5–10 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

No, quick oats absorb liquid differently and may result in a mushy texture. Stick to old-fashioned rolled oats.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can either fully bake and reheat later or mix the ingredients the night before and bake in the morning.

What kind of apples work best?

Any firm, sweet-tart variety like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith will hold up well in baking.

Can I omit the coconut oil?

Yes, you can leave it out or replace it with a different neutral oil or even applesauce.

How do I make this recipe nut-free?

It already is! Just be sure to choose a nut-free milk like oat or soy.

Can I add protein to this recipe?

Yes, stir in a scoop of plant-based protein powder or serve with a dollop of yogurt.

Is it freezer-friendly?

Yes, slice the cooled oatmeal into portions and freeze in an airtight container or bag for up to 3 months.

How do I serve baked oatmeal?

Serve warm with almond butter, maple syrup, sliced apples, crushed nuts, or a splash of non-dairy milk.

Can I make this without raisins?

Absolutely! Use other dried fruit like cranberries or skip them altogether.

Can I use dairy milk instead?

Yes, if you’re not vegan or dairy-free, dairy milk will work just fine.

Conclusion

This apple cinnamon baked oatmeal is a wholesome, comforting dish that brings the flavors of fall to your breakfast table. It’s easy to prepare, flexible with ingredients, and perfect for busy mornings or leisurely brunches. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a crowd, this cozy baked oatmeal is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.