Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe

There’s something gloriously cozy about a hearty breakfast casserole, and Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal truly ticks all the boxes for comfort, flavor, and ease. Tucked with juicy apples and scented with cinnamon, this dish is wholesome enough for weekday mornings but special enough to grace any brunch table. If you’ve ever longed to eat apple pie for breakfast, this soul-warming oatmeal lets you indulge in that feeling—without any guilt—in a nourishing, make-ahead-friendly way!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal plays an essential role. From the creamy oats to the vibrant apples and fragrant spices, these building blocks come together in the most delightful, cozy way—nothing unnecessary, nothing over-complicated, just simple kitchen staples that create breakfast magic.

• Old-fashioned rolled oats: The heart of the dish; they provide toothsome texture and soak up all those delicious flavors.
• Baking powder: Gives the oatmeal a little lift, making it light yet hearty.
• Ground cinnamon: Infuses warmth and deep aroma—cinnamon is the star of this bake!
• Ground nutmeg: Just a touch adds a comforting, old-fashioned bakery note.
• Salt: Enhances every flavor, balancing the sweetness beautifully.
• Brown sugar: Brings a deep, caramel-like sweetness that complements the apples and oats perfectly.
• Milk: Binds everything together and keeps the oatmeal wonderfully moist and creamy.
• Eggs: Help to set the oatmeal, giving each piece a sliceable, custardy texture.
• Vanilla extract: Lends a mellow sweetness and boosts all the other flavors.
• Butter or coconut oil: Adds richness and a subtle flavor—melted so it incorporates easily.
• Tart-sweet apples (like Honey Crisp or Gala): Peeled, cored, and diced, these apples are juicy pockets of flavor in every bite.

How to Make Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Oven

Start by lightly greasing your baking pan—it can be an 8×12-inch, 9×13-inch, or a 9×9-inch for extra-thick oatmeal—with nonstick spray so nothing sticks. If you’re planning to bake this Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal right away, preheat your oven to 325 degrees F. If you want to make it ahead for a stress-free morning, just skip preheating for now.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and brown sugar. This ensures the spices are evenly dispersed and every spoonful of oatmeal gets a taste of that cozy fall flavor. Take a moment to inhale the aroma—it’s already irresistible!

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl or a large liquid measuring cup, whisk together the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture brings everything together and helps turn the oats into a soft, bakeable custard.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Pour the wet ingredients over the oat mixture, then add your melted butter or coconut oil. Give everything a good stir so no dry pockets remain. The mixture will look a little soupy, but that’s exactly what you want—it’ll bake up nice and thick.

Step 5: Layer and Pour

Scatter the diced apples evenly over the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Pour the oatmeal batter right over the apples, spreading it with a spatula if needed so the apples remain evenly distributed. At this stage, you can cover and refrigerate overnight if you’d like to bake it fresh in the morning. If so, just remember to uncover before baking.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 35 to 45 minutes. It’s done when the top’s golden, the mixture is set, and it’s just the right amount of jiggly (think bread pudding, not soupy oatmeal). Let it cool for a few minutes before serving so it slices neatly.

Step 7: Serve and Savor

Serve your Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal warm or at room temperature. Add a drizzle of milk or a little cream over the top for extra indulgence—this last touch makes every bite unbelievably comforting!

How to Serve Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

Garnishes

When it comes to finishing touches, a sprinkle of chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) or a handful of dried cranberries makes this cozy dish feel even more special. Try a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of Greek yogurt, or just a drizzle of warm maple syrup for added decadence.

Side Dishes

If you’re serving Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal at a brunch gathering, it pairs wonderfully with crispy bacon, breakfast sausage, or a fresh fruit salad. Round things out with a hot mug of coffee or spiced chai for the ultimate breakfast spread!

Creative Ways to Present

For a whimsical twist, try baking the oatmeal in individual ramekins for perfectly portioned servings. Alternatively, cut into thick squares and pack them into lunchboxes—they make a fantastic snack! This bake also shines at potlucks; cut into bars, wrap individually, and watch them disappear.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover any leftover Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal tightly with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days, making it a fantastic meal-prep option.

Freezing

To freeze, cut cooled oatmeal into portions, wrap each tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and slip into a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or gently warm them from frozen in the microwave.

Reheating

Reheat individual servings in the microwave for about a minute, or warm larger portions in a covered baking dish at 325 degrees F until heated through (10 to 15 minutes). Add a splash of milk before reheating to restore that irresistible creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats?

Quick oats will work in a pinch, but the texture will be much softer and less hearty. For the classic bite and structure of Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal, old-fashioned rolled oats are the best choice.

What other fruits can I try in this bake?

Absolutely! Try pears, peaches, or berries as a seasonal alternative to apples. Mixing in a handful of raisins or dried cherries pairs deliciously with the cinnamon and nutmeg.

Is this bake gluten-free?

It can be, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats. Double-check all other ingredients for sneaky gluten sources, and you’re good to go.

Can I make Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the milk for your favorite non-dairy option (almond, oat, or soy milk all work), and use coconut oil instead of butter for tender, dairy-free results.

Should I peel the apples or leave the skin on?

Peeling the apples gives the oatmeal an ultra-tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture, but if you love a bit of extra color and fiber, feel free to leave the skins on—just be sure to wash and dice them well.

Final Thoughts

This Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal has become a staple in my kitchen, and I hope it brings as much warmth, comfort, and effortless joy to your table as it has to mine. Whether you’re serving family, hosting brunch, or treating yourself on a busy morning, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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