Baked Oatmeal with Banana, Apple, and Cinnamon

Baked oatmeal is one of those breakfasts that feels comforting and practical at the same time. It has the cozy flavor of a warm bowl of oats but with the structure of a soft, sliceable bake. This version, made with banana, apple, and cinnamon, is naturally sweet, gently spiced, and perfect for everyday mornings. It’s ideal for meal prep, easy to reheat, and flexible enough to adapt to what you have on hand.

The combination of mashed banana and diced apple gives this baked oatmeal a tender texture and balanced sweetness, while cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth without overpowering. Serve it straight from the oven, chilled and sliced, or reheated with a splash of milk. However you enjoy it, this recipe makes mornings easier and more satisfying.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 40 minutes

Total Time 55 minutes

Servings 6 servings

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

Rolled oats: 1½ cups

Baking powder: 1 tsp

Ground cinnamon: 1 tsp, plus extra for sprinkling

Salt: ¼ tsp

Ground nutmeg (optional): ⅛ tsp

Chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins (optional): ½ cup

Wet Ingredients

Milk (dairy or plant-based): 1½ cups

Eggs, beaten: 2 large

Maple syrup or honey: ⅓ cup

Vanilla extract: 1 tsp

Melted butter or coconut oil (optional): 2 tbsp

Fruits

Banana: 1 large, mashed

Apples: 2 medium, peeled, cored, and diced

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.

In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg if using, and any optional dry add-ins.

In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, and melted butter or oil if using.

Stir the mashed banana into the wet ingredients until well combined.

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined.

Fold in the diced apples, distributing them evenly.

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon over the top if desired.

Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.

Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips

Use rolled oats, not quick oats, for best texture.

Dice apples evenly so they cook through.

Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture.

Let the mixture rest briefly before baking if oats seem dry.

Avoid overmixing to keep the bake tender.

Check doneness by inserting a knife into the center.

Let it cool slightly to help it set before cutting.

Serve with milk or yogurt for added creaminess.

Store leftovers covered in the fridge.

Reheat gently to preserve texture.

Variations

Add blueberries or chopped pears for variety.

Use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.

Make it vegan by using flax eggs.

Add shredded coconut for texture.

Swap maple syrup for date syrup.

Add pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.

Use grated apple instead of diced for softer texture.

Stir in chia seeds for extra fiber.

Top with sliced bananas before baking.

Add a crumble topping for a dessert-style version.

Q&A

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep and reheats well.

Can I freeze baked oatmeal?
Yes, slice and freeze for up to 2 months.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s mildly sweet and soft in texture.

Can I reduce the sweetener?
Yes, bananas and apples provide natural sweetness.

Do I need to peel the apples?
Peeling is recommended for smoother texture.

Can I use quick oats?
Rolled oats give better structure, but quick oats can work.

How do I know when it’s done?
The center should be set, not wet.

Can I add protein?
Yes, add nuts, seeds, or protein powder.

Is this gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free oats if needed.

What’s the best way to serve it?
Warm with milk, yogurt, or nut butter.

Nutrition

(Approximate Per Serving)

Calories: 310
Protein: 9 g
Carbohydrates: 46 g
Fiber: 6 g
Fat: 9 g
Sugar: Naturally occurring and from sweetener

Conclusion

Baked Oatmeal with Banana, Apple, and Cinnamon is a dependable, comforting breakfast that fits seamlessly into everyday life. It’s easy to prepare, nourishing, and endlessly adaptable, making it a great choice for busy mornings or relaxed weekends. With warm spices, fruit-forward sweetness, and wholesome ingredients, this baked oatmeal is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.