Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups

If you’re looking for a breakfast that’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up, then you’ve come to the right place! These Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups are a family favorite in my home. They’re warm, cozy, and bursting with flavors that remind you of fall. What I love most about this recipe is how perfect it is for any occasion—whether you’re rushing out the door on a busy weekday or hosting a weekend brunch with friends and family.

The best part? You can make these oatmeal cups ahead of time, so they’re ready to grab as you head out or simply enjoy them fresh from the oven. Trust me, once you try these baked apple cinnamon oatmeal cups, they’ll quickly become a staple in your meal prep routine!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious cups ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet apple and cinnamon flavors packed into each cup.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake them ahead of time and store them for an easy breakfast throughout the week.
• Nutritious goodness: Packed with wholesome oats and fresh apples, these cups are a great start to your day!
• Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. These Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups come together quickly with just a few key items!

For the Base

• 1 and 1/2 cups milk (360ml, either dairy or non-dairy)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup (120ml)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce (120g)
• 3 cups old-fashioned whole oats (255g)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon powder
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg powder
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla essence
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Add-ins

• 1 generous cup chopped peeled apple (120g)
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (50g)
• Optional: coarse sugar for sprinkling

Variations

One of the best things about these oatmeal cups is how flexible they are! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or what you’re craving.

• Add dried fruit: Toss in some raisins or cranberries for an extra burst of sweetness.
• Change up the nuts: Use almonds or sunflower seeds instead of walnuts or pecans for a different crunch.
• Try different spices: Experiment with ginger or cardamom for an added layer of flavor.
• Make it chocolatey: Stir in some mini chocolate chips for a delightful twist that kids will adore!

How to Make Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that your oatmeal cups bake evenly and reach that perfect golden brown color.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk, eggs, pure maple syrup, and unsweetened applesauce. Whisk them together until everything is well-blended. This mixture creates a moist base that keeps your oatmeal cups soft and fluffy.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the old-fashioned oats, baking powder, cinnamon powder, nutmeg powder, vanilla essence, and salt. Stir well to ensure all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed. Mixing dry ingredients separately helps everything combine better later on.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the dry mixture into the bowl with wet ingredients. Gently fold them together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those lovely oats to stay intact!

Step 5: Add Apples

Fold in the chopped apples carefully—this adds natural sweetness and moisture to your oatmeal cups. If you’re using nuts, now’s the time to mix those in too!

Step 6: Bake

Spoon the mixture into greased muffin tins or silicone molds. Fill each cup about three-quarters full. If you’d like some added sweetness on top, sprinkle coarse sugar over each cup before placing them in the oven. Bake for about 28 minutes or until they are set and lightly golden.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy!

Once baked, let them cool slightly before removing from the tins. Enjoy these Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups warm or store them in an airtight container for later. They make fantastic grab-and-go breakfasts!

Pro Tips for Making Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups

Creating the perfect baked apple cinnamon oatmeal cups can be a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll be on your way to breakfast bliss!

• Choose the Right Apples: Opt for sweet and tart apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith. Their flavor pairs beautifully with the warm spices, giving your oatmeal cups that extra zing.

• Mix Ingredients Thoroughly: Mixing your wet and dry ingredients separately before combining ensures even distribution of flavors. This method helps each bite be just as delicious as the last!

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your oatmeal cups while they’re in the oven. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture; you want them to be firm but not hard. A golden-brown top is your cue!

• Experiment with Nut Varieties: If you have a nut allergy or want a different flavor, try adding seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds instead of nuts. They add crunch and nutrition without compromising taste.

• Make Ahead and Freeze: These oatmeal cups are perfect for meal prep! You can bake a batch and freeze them to enjoy later. Just pop them in the microwave for a quick breakfast on busy mornings.

How to Serve Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups

Serving these oatmeal cups is all about making them feel special while also keeping it simple. Here are some ideas to elevate your breakfast presentation!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Apples: A sprinkle of fresh chopped apples on top adds color and freshness, enhancing the apple flavor.
• Cinnamon Dusting: A light dusting of cinnamon powder brings out the warm spice aroma, making them even more inviting.

Side Dishes

• Yogurt: A serving of creamy dairy-free yogurt (like almond or coconut) adds a smooth texture and balances the sweetness of the oatmeal cups.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits complements the warm flavors of the oatmeal, providing a burst of freshness.
• Smoothie: Pair these oatmeal cups with a refreshing smoothie loaded with greens or berries for a nutritious start to your day.
• Nut Butter Spread: A dollop of almond or cashew butter offers healthy fats and protein, turning your breakfast into a fulfilling meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy your Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups in style! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy delicious, wholesome breakfasts all week long.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the oatmeal cups to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days!

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the oatmeal cups after they have cooled.
• Wrap each cup individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from the refrigerator, simply pop them in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warmed through.
• If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then microwave as above.
• Alternatively, you can warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions readers often have about this recipe.

Can I make Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups without eggs?

Absolutely! You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). This will help bind everything together nicely.

How do I customize my Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups?

Feel free to get creative! You can add your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or even different spices like ginger or cardamom. Experimenting is part of the fun!

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

Old-fashioned oats give these oatmeal cups their nice chewy texture, but if you only have quick oats on hand, you can use them. Just note that the texture may be slightly different.

How long do Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups as much as I do! They’re not just delicious; they’re also a fantastic way to start your day on a wholesome note. Whether you’re busy during the week or just want something comforting on a lazy weekend morning, these little cups will surely bring a smile to your face. Happy baking!