Amish Style Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal: 5 Delicious Reasons to Try It
Start your morning with the warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon and apples with this Amish Style Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal. This wholesome dish is the perfect apple breakfast bake healthy option that feels indulgent while still supporting clean eating. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping a week’s worth of meals, or simply craving something heartwarming and nutritious, this clean baked oatmeal is guaranteed to become your go-to recipe.
Perfect for chilly mornings or when you want to start your day with intention, this dish offers a healthier spin on traditional oats with a rich, satisfying texture—much like a breakfast casserole. It’s more than just a feel-good breakfast—it doubles as a convenient baked oatmeal freezer meal, ideal for busy households. Plus, if you’re following a gluten-free lifestyle, it’s one of the best gluten free baked oatmeal recipes when made with certified gluten-free oats.
So whether you’re searching for a new oatmeal crockpot recipe to simplify mornings or experimenting with a peanut butter oatmeal bake breakfast variation, this dish brings versatility, comfort, and nutrition to your table. Let’s explore why it’s become a top choice for wholesome, delicious breakfasts.
What is Amish Style Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal?
Amish Style Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is a traditional, hearty dish that transforms wholesome oats, fresh apples, and warming cinnamon into a baked out meal that resembles a soft, tender oat cake. Unlike regular stovetop oatmeal, which can often be mushy, this clean baked oatmeal has a light, chewy texture with a golden top—making it feel indulgent and almost dessert-like.
Rooted in Pennsylvania Dutch cooking traditions, this recipe celebrates simple, nourishing ingredients. With the perfect balance of spice and natural sweetness, it delivers a flavor that’s both comforting and elevated. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, highly adaptable to various dietary needs, and brings the satisfaction of healthy baked apples with oats to your breakfast table in every delicious bite.
Ingredients for the Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal
You don’t need anything fancy to make this cozy morning favorite. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- ½ cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar for a cleaner option)
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based like almond or oat milk)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup melted butter or coconut oil
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
- Optional: ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
If you’re following a gluten-free baked oatmeal recipe, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats. For a vegan option, flax eggs and non-dairy milk work beautifully.
Essential Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Before diving into the delicious process of making your Amish Style Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal, it’s important to have the right tools on hand—think of it as setting the stage for a smooth and stress-free baking experience.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mixing bowls – One large for combining dry ingredients and another smaller one for whisking wet ingredients.
- Whisk – Essential for blending eggs, milk, and vanilla smoothly, ensuring a silky texture in your oatmeal base.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Precision matters in baking, so accurate measuring tools are key for consistency.
- 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish – This size creates just the right thickness, giving your oatmeal its signature soft, cake-like texture.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – Perfect for folding in diced apples and nuts without over-mixing.
- Non-stick spray or butter – Greasing your dish prevents sticking and ensures those golden edges release cleanly.
Think of these items as your breakfast toolkit—simple but essential. With everything ready to go, you’re just moments away from creating a warm, comforting, and healthy breakfast bake that’s as satisfying as it is nourishing.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Amish Style Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking dish with non-stick spray or a bit of butter. This step ensures an easy release and prevents sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the oats, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to distribute the spices evenly throughout the oats.
3. Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, vanilla, and melted butter. Make sure the melted butter isn’t too hot, or it could cook the eggs prematurely.
4. Combine and Fold
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir until just combined. Gently fold in the diced apples and nuts if using.
5. Pour and Bake
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
6. Cool and Serve
Allow the baked oatmeal to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with a splash of milk, yogurt, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
How to Make It a Freezer-Friendly Meal
This Amish Style Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal doubles beautifully as a baked oatmeal freezer meal, making it an excellent choice for meal prep and time-saving breakfasts. Whether you’re planning ahead for the week or stocking your freezer for future convenience, this oatmeal bake freezes and reheats like a dream.
To freeze, allow the baked oatmeal to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, slice it into individual portions. Wrap each slice in parchment paper or aluminum foil, then store the wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe airtight container or zip-top bag. This method keeps the portions from sticking together and makes grabbing a single serving easy.
For reheating, you have two options:
- From frozen: Microwave each portion for 1–2 minutes until heated through.
- Thawed overnight: Place a portion in the refrigerator the night before and microwave for 30–60 seconds in the morning.
If you’d prefer to freeze the entire dish, cover it tightly with foil and plastic wrap once cooled. To serve, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20–25 minutes, or until warmed through.
This approach is perfect for busy mornings when you need a quick, healthy breakfast. It’s also ideal if you love to batch cook, or if you’re prepping school-day breakfasts, postpartum meals, or ready-to-go food for guests. It’s one of those rare gluten free baked oatmeal recipes that stores well without losing its comforting texture or delicious apple flavor.
Healthy Breakfast Benefits of This Baked Oatmeal
This apple breakfast bake is not only cozy but packed with nutritional benefits:
- Oats provide lasting energy and are rich in fiber.
- Apples offer antioxidants and natural sweetness.
- Eggs and milk add protein and help keep you full longer.
- Cinnamon supports blood sugar regulation.
Compared to sugar-laden muffins or pastries, this is a smart choice that will leave you satisfied without a crash. Plus, using natural sweeteners or dairy alternatives makes it suitable for many diets.
If you enjoy nutrient-rich starts to your day, check out this lemon coconut cheesecake cookie recipe that balances sweetness and wholesome ingredients.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
Make this recipe your own with these easy variations:
- Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal: Add ¼ cup of peanut butter to the wet ingredients. It blends perfectly and adds protein.
- Berry Blend: Replace apples with blueberries or raspberries.
- Banana Oatmeal Bake: Mash 2 bananas and reduce the sugar.
- Crockpot Version: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4–5 hours. Try our oatmeal crockpot recipe for inspiration.
Want a decadent twist? Pair it with our maple sugar cream pie for a sweet finish to your morning.
Serving Suggestions and Topping Ideas
Turn this dish into a breakfast centerpiece with these toppings:
- Sliced bananas or extra diced apples
- A spoonful of yogurt or cottage cheese
- Chia seeds or hemp hearts for added nutrition
- A sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup
Serve it alongside our coconut cooler recipe or a warm cup of herbal tea for a comforting morning ritual.
How to Store, Freeze, and Reheat Leftovers
One of the best things about this Amish Style Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is how well it keeps, making it an excellent choice for clean baked oatmeal meal prep. Whether you’re saving leftovers or planning a week of healthy breakfasts, this recipe is just as delicious reheated as it is fresh.
Here’s how to store it properly:
- Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. It stays moist and flavorful, making it a perfect apple breakfast bake healthy option all week long.
- Freeze individual portions by wrapping them tightly in parchment paper or foil, then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months, making this a true baked oatmeal freezer meal.
- To reheat, microwave a portion with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Alternatively, bake it at 300°F for 10–15 minutes until warmed through.
This make-ahead method supports busy mornings and helps reduce food waste. If you enjoy prepping nutritious meals in advance, pair this recipe with other freezer-friendly ideas like our peaches and cream loaf—another cozy breakfast that stores beautifully and brings comfort with every bite.
What to Serve with Baked Oatmeal for a Complete Breakfast
To build a balanced breakfast, pair with:
- A protein smoothie or glass of plant-based milk
- Scrambled eggs or cottage cheese scrambled eggs
- Fresh fruit or a fruit salad
- A slice of fresh peach bundt cake for a brunch-worthy spread
This baked oatmeal is satisfying on its own but shines even more with a well-rounded breakfast plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Baked Oatmeal
To ensure success every time, avoid these errors:
- Skipping the grease: Even nonstick pans benefit from a light coating of spray or butter.
- Not measuring liquids correctly: Too much milk can make it mushy, too little will make it dry.
- Overbaking: Leads to a rubbery texture. Keep an eye on your oven!
- Using quick oats: These break down too much—stick with old-fashioned oats.
Being mindful of these tips helps you create a perfect clean baked oatmeal dish every time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this the night before?
Yes! Assemble the oatmeal and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning or reheat.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use certified gluten-free oats.
Can I omit the eggs?
Certainly. Substitute with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flax + 3 tablespoons water per egg).
How do I make it nut-free?
Simply skip the nuts or use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a 9×13-inch dish and adjust baking time to 45–50 minutes.
Final Thoughts & Call to Action
This Amish Style Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is everything a wholesome breakfast should be: warm, nutritious, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re planning your weekly meal prep or feeding a crowd, it checks every box for health, flavor, and convenience.
If this recipe brightened your morning, don’t forget to share it with friends or save it for later. You can also explore other cozy breakfasts like our peaches and cream loaf or no-bake banana split cake. For more easy breakfast bakes and clean eating ideas, subscribe to our blog and stay inspired with every bite!
PrintAmish Style Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal: A Cozy, Healthy Breakfast Bake
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Warm, hearty, and filled with sweet apple-cinnamon goodness, this Amish Style Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is a healthy make-ahead breakfast that’s as satisfying as it is simple. Perfect for chilly mornings, meal prep, or freezer-friendly batch cooking!
Ingredients
-
2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
-
½ cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
-
1½ teaspoons baking powder
-
1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
-
½ teaspoon salt
-
2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
-
2 large eggs
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
¼ cup melted butter or coconut oil
-
2 medium apples, peeled and diced
-
Optional: ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish.
2️⃣ Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir together oats, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3️⃣ Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, vanilla, and melted butter.
4️⃣ Combine and Fold: Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Gently fold in diced apples and nuts if using.
5️⃣ Bake: Pour mixture into the greased dish. Bake for 35–40 minutes until the top is golden and the center is set.
6️⃣ Cool & Serve: Let cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with yogurt, milk, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Notes
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Use certified gluten-free oats if needed.
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Substitute flax eggs for a vegan version (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water per egg).
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Make it freezer-friendly: Cool, slice, wrap, and store individual portions.
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Add-ins like berries, bananas, or peanut butter can be swapped in for variety.