Introduction
Imagine waking up to the comforting aroma of baked apples and cinnamon wafting through your kitchen, promising a delicious and nutritious start to your day. This Baked Apple Cinnamon Steel Cut Oats recipe is a delightful twist on the classic oatmeal dish, offering a perfect blend of sweetness and warmth that will surely satisfy your taste buds. Whether you are a busy professional looking for a quick and wholesome breakfast option or a food enthusiast eager to explore new flavors, this one-pot recipe is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.
What makes this recipe truly special is the harmonious combination of hearty steel-cut oats, tender baked apples, and fragrant cinnamon. Not only does it deliver a burst of flavors and textures, but it also provides a healthy dose of fiber, vitamins, and minerals to fuel your day. This dish is not just about nourishment; it’s about indulging in a cozy and satisfying breakfast experience that will leave you feeling energized and ready to tackle whatever the day may bring.
Throughout history, apples and cinnamon have been celebrated for their culinary versatility and health benefits. From ancient folklore to modern-day superfood status, these ingredients have stood the test of time, captivating taste buds and offering a myriad of nutritional advantages. By incorporating them into this wholesome oatmeal recipe, you are not only honoring tradition but also embracing a time-honored flavor combination that never fails to impress.
So, grab your apron, preheat your oven, and let’s embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the simple joys of homemade goodness and the cozy charm of a warm breakfast hug in a bowl.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Prepare to be enchanted by the irresistible charm of this Baked Apple Cinnamon Steel Cut Oats recipe. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this delightful dish:
First and foremost, this recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll appreciate the straightforward instructions and one-pot convenience of this breakfast gem.
Furthermore, this dish offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The natural sweetness of the baked apples pairs beautifully with the warm spiciness of cinnamon, creating a symphony of tastes that will awaken your senses and leave you craving more. Each spoonful is a delightful medley of creamy oats, tender fruit, and aromatic spice—a true comfort food experience.
In addition to its delectable taste, this recipe boasts impressive nutritional benefits. Steel-cut oats are a rich source of fiber and protein, keeping you full and satisfied for hours. Apples are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, promoting overall health and well-being. And cinnamon not only adds a warm and cozy flavor but also offers potential health perks, including blood sugar regulation and anti-inflammatory properties.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday breakfast or a leisurely weekend treat, this Baked Apple Cinnamon Steel Cut Oats recipe is a versatile option that caters to all occasions. It’s a wholesome, delicious, and heartwarming dish that will soon become a staple in your morning routine.
Ingredients
Oat Base
- 1 cup steel cut oats
- 2 cups milk (or almond/oat milk)
- 1 cup water
- 2 medium apples, diced (peeled or unpeeled)
- ¼ cup maple syrup or brown sugar
- 2 tbsp melted butter or coconut oil
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ tsp baking powder
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Dish
Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease 8×8 baking dish.
Step 2: Mix Dry
Combine oats, baking powder, cinnamon, salt in dish.
Step 3: Add Apples
Scatter diced apples evenly over oats.
Step 4: Pour Wet
Whisk milk, water, maple syrup, melted butter, vanilla. Pour over oats. Shake pan gently to distribute.
Step 5: Bake
Cover with foil. Bake 35 minutes. Uncover, stir, bake 20-25 minutes more until liquid absorbed and top golden.
Step 6: Rest & Serve
Let sit 5 minutes. Fluff with fork. Add milk/nuts as desired.
Expert Tips
- Steel cut oats need higher liquid ratio than rolled oats.
- Dice apples small (½-inch) for even cooking.
- Overnight option: Assemble, cover, refrigerate, bake straight from cold +15 min.
- Foil first half prevents drying out top layer.
Variations & Substitutions
Pear Ginger: Pears + ½ tsp ground ginger.
Vegan: Plant milk + coconut oil.
Peanut Butter Banana: Sliced bananas + 2 tbsp PB swirled in.
Berry: Frozen blueberries/raspberries instead of apple.
Pumpkin: ½ cup pumpkin puree + pumpkin pie spice.
Storage
Fridge: 5 days in airtight container.
Freeze: 2 months in portions.
Reheat: Microwave with splash milk 1-2 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Top with:
- Greek yogurt + granola
- Chopped pecans/walnuts
- Fresh apple slices + cinnamon
- Maple syrup drizzle
Perfect brunch buffet or meal prep staple.
FAQs
Too soupy?
Bake uncovered longer or use less liquid next time.
Dry/crumbly?
Add extra milk before baking; stir midway.
No apples?
Any firm fruit—pears, peaches, frozen berries.
Gluten-free?
Certified GF steel cut oats.
Sweetener swap?
Honey, coconut sugar same amount.
Final Thoughts
Baked Apple Cinnamon Steel Cut Oats transform humble pantry staples into breakfast bliss—chewy, apple-studded comfort ready when you are.
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Overnight prep Sunday, weekday mornings solved, classic apple or PB banana twist?
Baked Apple Cinnamon Steel Cut Oats (One Pot Recipe!)
A delightful twist on classic oatmeal, this Baked Apple Cinnamon Steel Cut Oats recipe delivers a perfect blend of sweetness and warmth, making it a comforting and nutritious breakfast option. With hearty steel-cut oats, tender baked apples, and fragrant cinnamon, this one-pot dish offers a burst of flavors and textures along with essential nutrients to fuel your day.
Ingredients
- 1 cup steel-cut oats
- 2 medium apples, cored and sliced
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 3 cups water
- Pinch of salt
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large oven-safe pot, combine steel-cut oats, sliced apples, ground cinnamon, maple syrup, water, and a pinch of salt.
- Cover the pot and bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until the oats are cooked and the apples are tender.
- Remove from the oven and stir the oats mixture well.
- Serve hot in bowls, optionally garnished with additional cinnamon or a drizzle of maple syrup.
- Enjoy the warm and comforting flavors of the Baked Apple Cinnamon Steel Cut Oats!
