Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal for a Make-Ahead Breakfast

Makes 6 servings

This baked oatmeal is designed as a flexible breakfast, not a treatment for any health condition. Use milk or an unsweetened fortified alternative that suits your household, and check labels for allergens.

Ingredients

• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, optional
• 1 medium apple, cored and diced
• 2 eggs
• 1 3/4 cups milk or suitable alternative
• 1/3 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup or brown sugar, optional
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or seeds, optional

Method

1. Heat the oven to 350 F (175 C). Lightly grease an 8-inch square baking dish.

2. In a bowl, stir oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and optional salt. Fold in the diced apple.

3. In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, applesauce, vanilla, and optional sweetener. Pour over the oat mixture and stir until evenly combined.

4. Transfer to the baking dish and sprinkle with nuts or seeds if using. Bake for about 35 to 40 minutes, until the center is set and the top is lightly browned.

5. Let cool briefly before serving. Add yogurt or fruit if desired.

Make-ahead and food safety

Refrigerate leftovers promptly in a covered container and use within a few days, or freeze portions for longer storage. Reheat a portion until hot throughout. Do not leave cooked food at room temperature for extended periods; follow FoodSafety.gov guidance for chilling and leftovers. The texture firms as it cools, so a splash of milk can help when reheating.

For variations, try pear instead of apple or add raisins. If using nuts, identify them clearly for anyone with allergies and prevent cross-contact with other foods.

Sources and further reading

• Food Safety: Leftovers and Food Safety, FoodSafety.gov
• 4 Steps to Food Safety, FoodSafety.gov

Health disclaimer

This article is for general education only. Its information and suggestions are not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and may not be right for everyone. Ask a qualified health professional for advice that fits your health, medications, and needs before changing your diet, exercise, supplement use, or care.