Cinnamon Apple Breakfast Bake

Name: Cinnamon Apple Breakfast Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups apples, peeled and sliced; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups milk; 2 eggs; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When the mornings turn crisp and cool, I crave a warm, comforting breakfast that fills the home with delightful aromas. This Cinnamon Apple Breakfast Bake has become my go-to recipe because it's easy to prepare yet bursting with flavor. Juicy apples, warming cinnamon, and a hint of vanilla come together to create a deliciously satisfying dish that's perfect for busy mornings or leisurely weekends. Whether enjoyed on its own or served alongside a drizzle of maple syrup, this breakfast bake brings warmth and joy to every bite.

Created by

Natalie Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:46:19.650Z

I distinctly remember the first time I made this Cinnamon Apple Breakfast Bake. The aroma of baked apples and cinnamon wafting through my kitchen made my mouth water. I layered the ingredients just so, ensuring that each slice would be a perfect bite of cozy flavors. The secret, I found, was in letting the apples rest in the cinnamon sugar—this really enhances the flavor!

Over the years, I've experimented with different toppings, from crunchy nuts to a dollop of yogurt, and discovered it’s incredibly versatile. It even tastes great served cold, making it ideal for meal prepping during the week—just heat and enjoy!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Warm, sweet aroma that fills your kitchen.
Perfect balance of spice and sweetness.
Easy to prepare, making mornings stress-free.

      

The Perfect Apple Choice

Choosing the right apples is crucial for this recipe. I recommend using a variety of apples that hold their shape while baking, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These apples provide a pleasant tartness that balances the sweetness of the brown sugar. Aim to slice the apples evenly to ensure they cook through at the same rate, which should ideally be about 1/4-inch thick.

If you're looking for a sweeter profile, Fuji or Gala apples are wonderful alternatives. They can be used alone or mixed with tart varieties for a more complex flavor. Remember, freshly peeled and sliced apples are key to keeping the dish vibrant and juicy, so prep them just before assembling to prevent browning.

Mastering the Oat Mixture

The oat mixture is not just a base; it adds heartiness to the bake. Be sure to use rolled oats rather than quick oats. Rolled oats provide a chewy texture that complements the soft apples, while quick oats might turn mushy. Mixing them with the milk, eggs, and melted butter helps to achieve a creamy, custard-like consistency, ensuring each bite is rich and satisfying.

For a flavor boost, consider mixing in a handful of nuts or seeds, such as walnuts or flaxseeds. They not only provide a delightful crunch but also enhance the nutritional profile. If you're looking to cut back on sugar, you can reduce the brown sugar by half and substitute it with unsweetened applesauce, adding moisture without too much sweetness.

Storage and Enjoyment

Once baked, this Cinnamon Apple Breakfast Bake keeps well in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply cover it with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This makes it perfect for meal prepping on the weekends. You can also freeze leftovers; just slice them and place them in an airtight container. They should last for about three months in the freezer.

When serving, try pairing the bake with a scoop of vanilla yogurt or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent touch. If you want a richer experience, drizzle with caramel sauce or top with a sprinkle of chopped pecans for added crunch. Each of these additions complements the original flavors beautifully and takes breakfast to the next level!

Ingredients

For the Breakfast Bake

4 cups apples, peeled and sliced
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups milk
2 eggs
1/4 cup melted butter
1/4 teaspoon salt

Mix all together until well combined.

Instructions

Prepare the Apples

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with half of the brown sugar and one teaspoon of cinnamon. Set aside to let the flavors meld.

Make the Oat Mixture

In another bowl, mix the rolled oats, remaining brown sugar, melted butter, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until fully incorporated.

Combine and Bake

Layer the apples in a greased baking dish and pour the oat mixture on top. Spread evenly and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden and the apples are tender.

Serve

Let cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm, optionally with maple syrup or yogurt.

Enjoy your hearty breakfast treat!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, top with chopped nuts or a sprinkle of granola before serving.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bake turns out too dry, it could be due to overbaking. Keep an eye on it in the last few minutes; you want the top to be golden and the apples tender, but not dried out. If you notice it browning too quickly, simply cover it loosely with aluminum foil until the cooking time is up.

On the other hand, if it seems too soggy, it may be because the apples released excess moisture. To combat this in future bakes, consider draining some of the juice from the apples after mixing them with sugar. You can also increase the baking time slightly to allow more moisture to evaporate, ensuring a firmer texture.

Variations to Try

For a seasonal twist, try adding cranberries or raisins to the oat mixture and apples, which adds a burst of tartness and sweetness. These dried or fresh fruits can provide a delightful contrast to the soft baked apples and create a more complex flavor profile that’s sure to impress.

If you're interested in a nut-free version, you can substitute the butter with coconut oil or use a plant-based alternative and add dairy-free milk. This maintains the rich flavor of the bake while accommodating dietary preferences. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this bake ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare it the night before and refrigerate. Just bake it in the morning.

→ What type of apples work best?

Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples provide great flavor and texture.

→ Can I use rolled oats instead of quick oats?

Absolutely! Rolled oats give a nice chewiness to the bake.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze it in individual portions for easy breakfasts later.