Cozy Apple Raisin Baked Oatmeal

Wrap yourself in the comforting flavors of autumn with this warm and hearty baked oatmeal. Imagine tender baked apples, sweet raisins, and wholesome oats all infused with a cozy blend of cinnamon and spice, baked into a soft, scoopable breakfast that tastes like a rustic apple crumble. It’s the perfect, nourishing start to a chilly morning and a fantastic recipe to meal prep for easy breakfasts all week.

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Prep Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:

• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats, (gluten-free if needed)
• 2 medium apples, (like Honeycrisp or Gala), peeled, cored, and chopped
• ½ cup raisins
• ¼ cup chopped dried apricots, (optional)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• ½ tsp fine sea salt
• 2 cups milk, (any kind)
• ¼ cup pure maple syrup
• 1 large egg
• 3 tbsp melted butter or coconut oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 2-quart or 8×8 inch baking dish.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add Fruits: Stir the chopped apples, raisins, and optional dried apricots into the oat mixture until they are evenly distributed.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate, medium bowl, whisk together the milk, maple syrup, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Mix and Pour: Pour the wet ingredients over the oat and apple mixture. Stir everything together until just combined—no need to overmix.
6. Bake: Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
7. Cool and Serve: Let the baked oatmeal cool for about 10 minutes before scooping. It’s delicious served warm, just as it is, or with a splash of milk or a dollop of yogurt.

Recipe Notes:

• Best Apples to Use: Firm, sweet apples like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Braeburn work best as they hold their shape well when baked. For a tarter flavor, you can use Granny Smith.
• Meal Prep Perfection: This is an ideal make-ahead breakfast. Once cooled completely, cover the dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick and warm breakfast.
• Get That Crumble Top: For a more distinct, crisp topping like a fruit crumble, mix ½ cup rolled oats, ¼ cup flour, ¼ cup brown sugar, and 3 tablespoons of cold, cubed butter in a small bowl with your fingertips until crumbly. Sprinkle this over the oatmeal before baking.
• Dietary Variations: To make this vegan, use plant-based milk, substitute the egg with one “flax egg” (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 mins), and use maple syrup and coconut oil.
• Fruit and Nut Swaps: Feel free to swap the apples for pears, or use other dried fruits like cranberries or chopped dates. Adding ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans would also be delicious.

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There you have it—a simple, wholesome, and incredibly satisfying baked oatmeal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the comforting flavors of baked apples and spice in a healthy, easy-to-make dish. We hope you love it! Happy baking!

Estimated Nutritional Information (per serving, if making 8)

Calories: 285; Protein: 8g; Fat: 9g (Saturated Fat: 4g); Carbohydrates: 45g; Fiber: 6g; Sugar: 24g.

Disclaimer: Nutritional information is estimated and can vary depending on specific ingredients, brands, and serving sizes used. This information is provided for guidance only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or nutritional advice.