If you’re searching for a cozy, make-ahead breakfast that’s as nourishing as it is comforting, Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is your answer. This dish brings the wholesome flavors of old-fashioned oats, crisp apples, and warm spices together in a gently sweet, softly baked casserole that will make your kitchen smell heavenly. Whether enjoyed bustling around on a busy morning or shared leisurely with loved ones, it’s a heartwarming classic that champions simple ingredients and big flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient has a key role, lending chewy texture, cozy flavor, or a hint of richness to each bite. Here’s what you’ll need—and why you won’t want to skip any of them:
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: The foundation of the casserole, providing structure and a delightfully hearty texture.
- Ground cinnamon: This warm spice melds perfectly with apples, delivering that signature comforting aroma and flavor.
- Ground nutmeg: Just a touch boosts the coziness and depth of the dish.
- Salt: Brings out the flavors in both the sweet and the savory ingredients—don’t omit it!
- Baking powder: Helps the oatmeal bake up tender and slightly puffed, never dense.
- Milk (dairy or non-dairy): Adds creaminess and moisture, so you can use whatever you keep on hand.
- Large eggs: These bind everything together and give structure to your baked oatmeal squares.
- Maple syrup or brown sugar: Provides just the right amount of sweetness, with that subtle maple or caramel note.
- Melted butter or coconut oil: Contributes richness and helps create a tender crumb.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors and boosts the warmth of the apples and spices.
- Diced apples: Fresh, juicy apple pieces bring texture and bursts of natural sweetness—peel or don’t, your choice!
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): For a bit of crunch and that classic, nutty finish (totally optional, but delightful).
How to Make Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish. This quick prep ensures your oatmeal slides out beautifully and bakes to golden perfection in every corner.
Step 2: Stir Together the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and baking powder. Mixing the dry ingredients first guarantees that spices and leavening are distributed evenly, so every bite of your Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is balanced in flavor and texture.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Whisk together the milk, eggs, maple syrup (or brown sugar), melted butter (or coconut oil), and vanilla extract in a separate bowl. This helps the sweeteners and fats blend seamlessly into the mixture, ensuring a cohesive, creamy base.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients and stir until everything is just combined. Fold in the diced apples and, if you’re a fan of a little crunch, those chopped walnuts or pecans. The mixture will look lusciously thick and speckled with apples—that’s exactly what you want!
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Set
Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Pop it into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the center is set and the top turns golden brown. The aroma of apples and cinnamon swirling through your kitchen is a treat in itself. Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra cinnamon, a handful of toasted nuts, or a dollop of creamy yogurt on top can take your Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal from simple to stunning. If you’re feeling indulgent, a drizzle of cream or maple syrup gives each piece that bakery-worthy finish.
Side Dishes
This cozy baked oatmeal pairs beautifully with fresh berries, crisp bacon, or scrambled eggs if you want to round out your breakfast spread. It’s hearty enough to stand alone, but a colorful fruit salad or a steaming mug of coffee will make your breakfast table truly inviting.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the oatmeal into neat squares and stacking them on a platter for a buffet brunch, or serve individual portions in cozy bowls with warm milk poured over. For special mornings, layer pieces with yogurt and fruit in glass jars for a breakfast parfait that’s as pretty as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extra Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal, simply cover the baking dish or transfer squares to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to five days, reheating portions as needed for quick, wholesome breakfasts throughout the week.
Freezing
This dish freezes like a dream! After the oatmeal has cooled, cut it into squares and wrap them individually or place between layers of parchment in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for one to two months—perfect for busy mornings when you want homemade comfort in a hurry.
Reheating
You can reheat servings in the microwave for about a minute, or warm them in a low oven (around 300°F) until heated through. If you love a creamier texture, splash a little milk on top before reheating for extra moisture and tenderness.
FAQs
Can I make Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap in your favorite non-dairy milk (like almond, oat, or soy) and use coconut oil instead of butter to make the recipe completely dairy-free. The flavor stays just as comforting and delicious.
Which apples work best in this oatmeal?
Both tart and sweet apples work well. Granny Smith adds a bit of tang and keeps its shape, while Honeycrisp or Fuji bring more natural sweetness. Mix and match for your perfect blend!
Can I add other fruits or mix-ins?
Definitely! Raisins, dried cranberries, or even chopped pears can be folded in alongside the apples. If you love more texture, a sprinkle of coconut or a handful of seeds is a fun and tasty twist.
Is Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal gluten-free?
It can be! Just make sure to use certified gluten-free rolled oats if you’re avoiding gluten. All the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so it’s a simple swap.
How do I know when the baked oatmeal is done?
The center should be set but still moist, and the top will turn a beautiful golden brown. Give the pan a gentle shake—if the middle no longer jiggles, your Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is ready to come out of the oven!
Final Thoughts
If you’re seeking a comforting breakfast that tastes like home, you’ll fall in love with Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal. It transforms humble pantry staples into a nourishing dish that’s both satisfying and utterly craveable. Give it a try—you may just find it becomes a new staple at your breakfast table!
Print
Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Amish-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Amish-style apple and cinnamon baked oatmeal is a comforting and hearty breakfast option that’s perfect for meal prep. With a blend of warm spices, sweet apples, and crunchy nuts, it’s a delicious way to start your day.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup maple syrup or brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-Ins:
- 1½ cups diced apples (peeled if desired)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine oats, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and baking powder.
- Whisk wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, maple syrup, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Combine and bake: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, fold in apples and nuts, then spread the mixture in the baking dish. Bake for 35–40 minutes until set.
- Cool and serve: Let the baked oatmeal cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- This dish is great for meal prep—reheat individual servings in the microwave.
- Add raisins or dried cranberries for extra sweetness, or top with yogurt or cream.
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