Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake is one of those comforting dishes that brings warmth and joy to your breakfast table. I stumbled upon this recipe during a chilly fall morning when I craved something hearty yet healthy. As the sweet aroma of baked apples and cinnamon filled the air, my family was drawn into the kitchen, eager to dig in. This delightful bake combines old-fashioned oats, fresh apples, and just the right touch of sweetness, making it perfect for busy weekdays or leisurely family brunches. The best part? It’s incredibly simple to whip up and can be enjoyed any time of day!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake. For one, it’s a budget-friendly recipe that utilizes pantry staples, making it easy on the wallet. Additionally, it serves as a wholesome breakfast or snack, packed with fiber and nutrients from oats and apples. The balance of flavors is comforting yet satisfying, making it a hit among kids and adults alike.
"I made this for a Sunday breakfast, and it was a huge hit! My kids loved it, and I felt good knowing it was a healthier option." – A satisfied home cook
The Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake is also an excellent option for meal prep. Make it on a Sunday, and you’ll have delicious breakfasts ready for the week ahead. Plus, its versatility allows for various additions, keeping things exciting each time you make it.
Step-by-Step Overview
Creating this Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake is a breeze! First, you’ll whisk together the wet ingredients to form a smooth base. After that, simply mix in your dry ingredients, fold in the apples (and nuts if you like), and bake until golden and firm. The entire process is straightforward, taking about 10 minutes of prep time before popping it in the oven. Once it’s baking, you’ll have time to sip your coffee and enjoy the heavenly aroma filling your kitchen.
What You’ll Need
To make this delicious bake, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 ½ cups milk (or almond milk for dairy-free)
- 1 large apple, diced
- 2 eggs
- ¼ cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Feel free to experiment with different types of apples or sweeteners based on your preference. Using almond milk instead of dairy milk makes this dish entirely dairy-free without sacrificing flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease your baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Add in the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until everything is thoroughly mixed.
- Gently fold in the diced apples and the optional chopped nuts.
- Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center feels firm to the touch.
- Allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before serving warm or storing in the fridge.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it warm, drizzled with a little extra maple syrup or honey for added sweetness. For a healthy twist, a dollop of Greek yogurt on top adds creaminess and protein. Consider pairing it with a side of fresh fruit or a cup of your favorite afternoon tea to balance the flavors perfectly.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your leftovers fresh, store the Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay good for about 4-5 days, making it a great option for meal prep. For reheating, simply pop a serving in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through – you’ll love how the flavors meld even more!
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Use old-fashioned oats for the best texture; quick oats may make the dish overly mushy.
- Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for a flavor twist.
- If you’re short on time, you can prep the ingredients the night before and bake the next morning.
Recipe Variations
- Swap out the apple for pears or berries for a different fruity twist.
- Add a bit of shredded coconut for a tropical flair.
- For a vegan version, replace eggs with flax eggs and use maple syrup only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dish the night before?
Absolutely! You can mix everything and store it in the fridge overnight. Just bake it fresh in the morning.
How do I reheat the leftovers?
The best way to reheat is in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds. You can also pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
What can I substitute for maple syrup?
Honey works well if you’re not sticking to a strict vegan diet. Agave syrup is another great alternative.
Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake
A comforting and healthy breakfast bake combining old-fashioned oats and fresh apples, perfect for busy mornings or family brunches.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 ½ cups milk (or almond milk for dairy-free)
- 1 large apple, diced
- 2 eggs
- ¼ cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease your baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Add in the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until everything is thoroughly mixed.
- Gently fold in the diced apples and the optional chopped nuts.
- Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center feels firm to the touch.
- Allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before serving warm or storing in the fridge.
Notes
For a healthy twist, serve warm with Greek yogurt or fresh fruit. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 4-5 days.