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As I was making my grocery list the other day (I feel like it’s actually a daily occurrence), I realized that all I ever seem to have on the list is eggs and cottage cheese. Now, some of you might be saying, “but what does that have to do with this recipe?”, and the answer to that is not much except that the title in almost every one of my recipes lately has the word “protein” in it. Protein is top of mind for women these days, and I am here for it! I make sure that every meal is focused on protein, and that includes breakfasts and desserts!
Apple season is here. I hate saying goodbye to our ridiculously short summer, but seasons change. God, everything changes, and the wiser I get, the more I learn that the more we attach to anything, therein lies the suffering, so bye-bye summer and hello fall! I do love fall, and this year is going to be a WHOLE LOT BETTER than last year (iykyk), so grab some apples because apple season has officially started on this website.
This isn’t your average oatmeal. We’re talking about a baked apple breakfast that tastes like dessert but fuels you like a proper meal. With rolled oats, warm spices, and plenty of chopped apples, it brings the comfort of pie with the staying power of a protein-packed breakfast. If you’re trying to increase your protein, curb your sugar intake, or simply want more breakfast ideas with apples, this is the recipe to bookmark!
Both overnight oats and baked oats start with the same base, rolled oats. The texture and experience of each dish are totally different. Overnight oats are cold, creamy, and grab-and-go, while baked oats are warm, soft, and spoonable, more like cake or pudding. Don’t get me wrong, you can eat baked oats cold, and it’s actually quite delicious, but nothing beats it straight out of the oven! This apple cinnamon baked version brings a little extra comfort to your breakfast routine, especially in the cooler months.
Baked oatmeal has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s incredibly versatile; you can swap in different fruits, spices, or toppings depending on the season or your mood. It’s also make-ahead friendly and reheats like a dream, making it perfect for busy mornings. Beyond convenience, it’s a nutritious option that’s packed with protein and fibre, especially when made with whole food ingredients. Since it’s naturally gluten-free when using GF oats and flour, it’s accessible to more people. Best of all, it requires minimal effort: just stir, pour, and bake.
This recipe brings together simple pantry and fridge staples with a few healthy swaps:
And for the optional glaze? Just yogurt and maple syrup stirred together. It’s simple, delicious, and adds a creamy finish.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a large ramekin.
In a medium-sized bowl, mash the ripe banana until smooth. Add the egg, olive oil, applesauce, and vanilla, then whisk everything together until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the oats, protein powder, almond flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until mostly incorporated, then stir in the milk to create a smooth, pourable batter. Fold in most of the diced apple, reserving a few pieces for topping.
Transfer the mixture to the greased ramekin, smoothing out the top with a spoon or spatula. Press the reserved apple pieces into the surface. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool slightly before serving.
While the oatmeal bake cools, whisk together the yogurt and maple syrup in a small bowl to create the optional glaze. Drizzle it over the top of the baked oats and dig in!
This baked apple breakfast is best served warm with a generous drizzle of creamy yogurt glaze over the top. For extra texture or indulgence, try adding a dollop of nut butter, a sprinkle of chopped nuts or granola for crunch, or even a spoonful of coconut cream or whipped cream if you’re leaning more toward dessert. A splash of warm milk poured over the oats also adds cozy, comforting vibes that take this breakfast to the next level.
Want to meal prep? This is a great apple cinnamon baked oatmeal to make in batches. Double or triple the recipe and bake in a larger dish, then portion out servings throughout the week.
To reheat baked oatmeal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply microwave it for 45 to 60 seconds, or warm it in the oven at 300°F for 8 to 10 minutes. If the oatmeal feels a bit dry after reheating, add a splash of milk or a spoonful of yogurt on top to bring back that moist, creamy texture.
This is a baked apple with oats breakfast that feels like dessert but delivers real nourishment. It’s gluten-free, protein-rich, and made with whole food ingredients you likely already have. Whether you serve it for breakfast, a snack, or a dessert, this apple pie oats recipe is one you’ll want on repeat.
Can I make baked oatmeal without eggs? Yes, you can! Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flax + 3 tablespoons water, mixed and rested for 5 minutes).
How can I make my baked oatmeal sweeter? This recipe is naturally sweetened with banana and applesauce, but you can easily increase the sweetness by adding a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey to the batter. You can also top with extra yogurt glaze, nut butter, or a drizzle of date syrup.
Do I have to use protein powder? No, but it does boost the protein content significantly. If you want to skip it, try replacing it with ¼ cup of hemp seeds, almond flour, or additional oats.
Can I make this recipe in advance? Absolutely. Baked oatmeal stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheats beautifully. It’s perfect for meal prep breakfasts.
Can I freeze baked oats? Yes! Once baked and cooled, wrap individual portions tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats? No, steel-cut oats won’t cook through properly in this recipe. Stick to rolled oats or quick oats for the best texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats and a gluten-free protein powder or flour substitute.
Food Photographer and Recipe Developer based in Toronto, Canada.
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*Macros are provided as an estimate for convenience. Your final numbers will vary depending on ingredient brands, substitutions, and how you portion the recipe.
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6 Responses
Used some apples from my neighbours orchard to make this for breakfast – just perfect
Well that sounds amazing!
Can I use something else other than banana am allergic
Hello! You could use apple sauce instead.
Best baked oatmeal I have ever had! Doubled the recipe and used a cherished fall pie plate. So delish and satisfying!
Thank you so much Nancy!