Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake with Cinnamon and Pecans

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of comfort food but want something nutritious to kickstart your day, this oatmeal apple bake is for you. It’s easy to make, customizable, and keeps well throughout the week. The apples and cinnamon provide a cozy fall flavor, while the pecans add a nice crunch and healthy fats. Plus, it’s a great option for meal prepping, so you can enjoy a warm breakfast without all the morning rush.

Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats

• 2 cups almond milk (or any milk of choice)

• 2 large apples, peeled and diced

• 1/2 cup pecans, chopped

• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)

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

Directions

1. Preheat and Prep
   Set your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish. You can use butter or cooking spray to ensure the bake doesn’t stick.

2. Mix the Base
   In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond milk, honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Stir everything together until well mixed.

3. Prepare the Apples
   Peel and dice your apples into small, even pieces. Make sure the pieces are small enough to cook through but still large enough to provide some nice apple chunks.

4. Add the Mix-ins
   Gently fold the diced apples, chopped pecans, and dried fruit (if using) into the oat mixture.

5. Transfer to Baking Dish
   Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula.

6. Bake Until Set
   Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the center feels firm when you gently press on it.

7. Cool and Serve
   Let the bake cool for about 10 minutes before cutting into squares. Serve warm, optionally topped with extra honey or maple syrup.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 squares

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes

• Total Time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

This breakfast bake is versatile, and you can easily switch up the flavors depending on the season or your preferences.

• Fruit Combinations: Try pears and walnuts, or berries and almonds for a change of pace.

• Indulgent Option: Add a streusel topping made from butter, brown sugar, and extra oats.

• Protein Boost: Stir in a scoop of vanilla protein powder with the dry ingredients, adding extra milk to maintain the right consistency.

• Spices: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg, cardamom, or a pinch of ginger for a more complex flavor profile.

Storage and Reheating

This oatmeal bake is perfect for meal prep and will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Store it in an airtight container, and when you’re ready to eat, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30-45 seconds. For a crispy top, you can warm it in a toaster oven instead.

It also freezes well. Wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as usual.

FAQs

1. How do I know when it’s done baking?

The top should be lightly golden, and the center should feel set when you gently press on it. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean.

2. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

You can microwave individual portions for 30-45 seconds, or warm them in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes if you want to crisp up the top.

3. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply use a 9×13-inch pan and increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes. Check for doneness by gently pressing the center or using a toothpick.

4. Can I make this the night before?

You can assemble it the night before and bake it in the morning, but the oats will absorb more liquid overnight, which will change the texture. I prefer baking it and reheating portions as needed.

5. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

It’s best to stick with old-fashioned rolled oats. Quick oats can turn mushy and won’t hold up as well during baking.

6. What’s the best apple variety to use?

Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples work great because they hold their shape during baking. Avoid soft apples like Red Delicious, which may turn mushy.

7. Can I substitute the pecans?

You can definitely substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds. If you have allergies, feel free to omit the nuts altogether.

8. Is the dried fruit necessary?

Not at all. The dried fruit, like raisins or cranberries, adds extra sweetness, but the bake is still delicious without them.

9. Can I use dairy milk instead of almond milk?

Yes, you can use any milk you like, such as whole milk or 2%. The flavor may differ slightly, but it will still taste great.

10. How can I make it sugar-free?

You can try using sugar-free maple syrup or a stevia-based sweetener. Adjust the amount since these alternatives tend to be sweeter than regular honey or maple syrup.

Conclusion

This Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake is a simple, delicious, and nutritious way to start your day. It’s perfect for meal prep, easy to customize, and can be enjoyed by the whole family. Whether you make it for a busy week ahead or as a cozy weekend treat, it’s sure to be a breakfast favorite!