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A square slice of Baked Apple Oatmeal on a decorative plate, topped with fresh apple slices, cranberries, and a dollop of yogurt.

Hearty Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake

A warm, comforting, and wholesome breakfast bake packed with oats, tender apples, and warming spices, perfect for meal prep or a cozy morning. This dish is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a hearty breakfast.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Apple-Oat Base
  • 2 cups rolled oats old-fashioned, not instant
  • 2 cups milk dairy or non-dairy
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup light brown sugar packed
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 medium apples about 2 cups diced, peeled, cored, and diced (e.g., Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji)
For the Crumb Topping (Optional)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tbsp light brown sugar packed
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 2 tbsp cold unsalted butter cut into small pieces
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts optional

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Large mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Cutting board
  • Knife

Method
 

Prepare the Bake
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, 1/4 cup light brown sugar, maple syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, 1 tsp cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
  3. Add the rolled oats and baking powder to the wet mixture, stirring until the oats are fully moistened.
  4. Gently fold in the diced apples.
  5. Pour the oatmeal mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Make the Crumb Topping (Optional)
  1. If you are making the crumb topping: In a separate small bowl, combine the 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp light brown sugar, and 1/4 tsp cinnamon. Add the cold butter pieces and use your fingertips or a pastry blender to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until coarse crumbs form. Stir in the chopped pecans or walnuts if using.
  2. Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the oatmeal mixture in the baking dish.
Bake and Serve
  1. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oats are set. A knife inserted into the center should come out mostly clean.
  2. Remove from oven and let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the breakfast bake to set further.

Notes

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Variations: Feel free to add a handful of dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dates along with the apples. A pinch of ground ginger or cardamom can also enhance the spice profile.
Serving: Serve warm with a drizzle of extra maple syrup, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or a splash of milk for added creaminess.