Creamy Apple Baked Oatmeal is a warm, comforting breakfast dish that combines wholesome oats with tender apples and a rich, silky caramel sauce. This delicious recipe is perfect for a cozy morning or as a make-ahead option for busy weekdays. It’s nutritious, filling, and can be enjoyed by the whole family!
Ingredients List
For the Baked Oatmeal:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional, such as walnuts or pecans)
For the Silky Caramel Sauce:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Timing
Preparing Creamy Apple Baked Oatmeal takes about 15 minutes for prep and 40 minutes for baking, totaling approximately 55 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or similar size.
Step 2: Prepare the Oatmeal Mixture
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, milk, eggs, brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir until well combined.
- Add Apples and Nuts: Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped nuts (if using).
Step 3: Bake the Oatmeal
- Pour into Dish: Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until set and lightly golden on top.
Step 4: Prepare the Silky Caramel Sauce
- Melt Sugar: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the granulated sugar. Stir constantly until the sugar melts and turns a deep amber color.
- Add Butter: Once melted, carefully add the butter and stir until melted and combined.
- Add Cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. Be cautious, as the mixture may bubble up. Stir until smooth.
- Finish with Vanilla and Salt: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Allow to cool slightly.
Step 5: Serve
- Slice and Serve: Once the baked oatmeal is done, let it cool for a few minutes. Slice into squares and serve warm, drizzled with silky caramel sauce.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Creamy Apple Baked Oatmeal (per serving, assuming 8 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Fiber | 4g |
Tips for Customization
- Add Spices: Enhance the flavor by adding nutmeg or ginger to the oatmeal mixture.
- Use Different Fruits: Substitute apples with pears or berries for variety.
- Make it Vegan: Use plant-based milk and flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) instead of eggs.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy Apple Baked Oatmeal pairs well with:
- A dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped cream.
- A sprinkle of extra cinnamon or nuts on top.
- Fresh fruit on the side.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the oatmeal to prevent it from drying out; it should be set but still moist.
- Not Mixing Well: Ensure all ingredients are well combined to avoid dry spots in the oatmeal.
- Using Unripe Apples: Choose ripe, sweet apples for the best flavor and texture.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Creamy Apple Baked Oatmeal can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven before serving. The caramel sauce can also be stored in the fridge and reheated as needed.
Conclusion
In just under an hour, you can create Creamy Apple Baked Oatmeal, a warm and satisfying breakfast that is both nutritious and indulgent. With its rich flavor and silky caramel sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the oatmeal mixture the night before and refrigerate it. Just bake it in the morning.
Can I freeze the baked oatmeal?
Yes! You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
What if I don’t have heavy cream for the caramel sauce?
You can substitute with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
Can I add chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Fold in some chocolate chips with the apples for an extra treat.
Creamy Apple Baked Oatmeal with Silky Caramel Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- For the Baked Oatmeal:
- • 2 cups rolled oats
- • 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- • 2 large eggs
- • 1/2 cup brown sugar
- • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- • 1/2 teaspoon salt
- • 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional, such as walnuts or pecans)
- For the Silky Caramel Sauce:
- • 1 cup granulated sugar
- • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- • 1/2 cup heavy cream
- • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- • A pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking dish or similar size.
- Prepare the Oatmeal Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, milk, eggs, brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir until well combined. Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped nuts (if using).
- Bake the Oatmeal: Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until set and lightly golden on top.
- Prepare the Silky Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the granulated sugar. Stir constantly until the sugar melts and turns a deep amber color. Once melted, carefully add the butter and stir until melted and combined. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. Stir until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Allow to cool slightly.
- Serve: Once the baked oatmeal is done, let it cool for a few minutes. Slice into squares and serve warm, drizzled with silky caramel sauce.
