Looking for a warm, hearty, and naturally sweet breakfast that feels like a hug in a bowl? This Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal is your answer. Rooted in traditional Amish cooking, this dish is a beloved classic for busy mornings, relaxed weekends, or even as an unexpected breakfast-for-dinner treat. With tender chunks of fresh apples, the warm spice of cinnamon and nutmeg, and a satisfying oat base baked to golden perfection, it’s a simple dish that nourishes both body and soul.

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What Makes This Amish-Style Baked Oatmeal So Special?

Baked oatmeal is a smart twist on your usual breakfast bowl, offering a comforting texture somewhere between oatmeal and cake. This Amish-style version is particularly enticing thanks to its mild sweetness, hearty oats, and fresh apples that burst with juicy flavor during baking. The cinnamon and nutmeg add a cozy fall-spice aroma that fills your kitchen and lets everyone know something warm and wonderful is coming out of the oven.

Whether your mornings are hectic or you want to unwind with a weekend brunch, this dish is easy to prepare with simple pantry staples and fresh fruit. Plus, it works beautifully as meal prep you can make it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning, saving time without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.

Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

George Law

This cozy Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal combines tender apples, hearty oats, and warm spices for a comforting, make-ahead breakfast. Lightly sweetened with brown sugar and baked to golden perfection, it’s a wholesome start to any day.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 45

Total Time 1

Course Breakfast, Brunch

Cuisine American, Amish

Servings 8 squares

Calories 260 kcal

Equipment

9×13 inch baking dish
large mixing bowl
medium mixing bowl
whisk
spatula or wooden spoon
knife and cutting board
oven mitts

Ingredients

3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup lightly packed brown sugar
2 1/2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
4 tbsp melted butter or coconut oil
2–3 large apples, peeled and diced
1/2 cup optional chopped walnuts or pecans
1/2 cup optional raisins or dried cranberries

Instructions

Bake for 35-45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set. The texture should resemble a soft baked custard.
In a large bowl, combine oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and brown sugar. Stir to distribute evenly.
In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir to combine, then add melted butter or coconut oil and mix thoroughly.
Scatter diced apples evenly across the greased baking dish, then pour the oatmeal mixture on top. Spread evenly.
Bake for 35-45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set. The texture should resemble a soft baked custard.
Let the baked oatmeal cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with a splash of milk or drizzle of maple syrup.

Notes

Use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option, or swap brown sugar for maple syrup or honey. Add nuts or raisins for extra texture and flavor. Make ahead and bake fresh in the morning for a warm, nourishing breakfast that fills the kitchen with the scent of cinnamon and apples.

Keyword Amish breakfast, apple cinnamon oatmeal, baked oatmeal, fall recipes, make-ahead breakfast

Why You’ll Love This Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

Effortlessly delicious: Minimal prep and straightforward ingredients make this a winner for busy cooks.
Hearty and filling: Loaded with oats and apples, it provides lasting energy.
Naturally sweetened: Brown sugar and fruit add sweetness without overwhelming.
Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert even breakfast-for-dinner!
Family-friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, with simple flavors and textures.
Make-ahead friendly: Assemble the night before to save time in the morning.
Customizable: Easily add nuts, seeds, or swap milk options to suit your diet.

Amish Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal 2

Ingredients for Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal

3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1½ teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¾ teaspoon salt
½ cup lightly packed brown sugar
2½ cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil
2-3 large apples (Honeycrisp or Gala), peeled and diced

Substitutions and Add-Ins:

Use almond, oat, or soy milk for a dairy-free version.

Swap brown sugar for maple syrup or honey (reduce liquid slightly if using honey).

Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins for extra texture and flavor.

For a vegan version, replace eggs with flax eggs and use coconut oil or vegan butter.

Step-by-Step Instructions with Tips for Success

Prep the Baking Dish and Oven
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or oil. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This ensures your oatmeal bakes evenly and doesn’t stick.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and brown sugar. This distributes the spices and leavening agent evenly throughout the dish.
Combine Wet Ingredients Separately
In another bowl, whisk the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. This helps create a creamy custard-like binder for the oatmeal.
Assemble the Mixture
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ones, stirring thoroughly. Then add the melted butter or coconut oil and mix well. This enriches the dish and adds a lovely buttery flavor.
Layer Apples and Pour Oatmeal Mix
Scatter the diced apples evenly in the prepared baking dish, then pour the oatmeal mixture over the fruit. The apples will soften during baking and blend into the oats beautifully.
Bake Until Golden and Set
Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until the oatmeal is golden on top and set in the center. It should look almost like a baked custard or cake. Let it cool slightly before serving to firm up.

Recipe Details and Timing

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 8

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Make-Ahead: Prepare the entire dish up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning for even fresher taste.
Storage: Keep leftovers airtight in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Freezing: Portion leftovers and freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Serving Suggestions and Garnishes
Top warm oatmeal with a splash of milk or cream, a drizzle of maple syrup or honey, and perhaps a sprinkle of chopped nuts for crunch. For extra indulgence, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if serving as dessert.
Optional Variations to Customize Your Baked Oatmeal
Add ½ cup chopped toasted walnuts or pecans for extra texture.
Stir in ½ cup fresh or dried cranberries for a tart contrast.
Swap apples for pears or mix apples with diced pears for fall variety.
For a spicier kick, increase cinnamon or add a pinch of ground ginger.
Mix in 1 tablespoon chia or flax seeds for added nutrients.

Cultural Note: Amish-Inspired Comfort Food

The Amish are known for their simple, wholesome cooking with an emphasis on hearty, comforting meals. Baked oatmeal like this is a modern take on their traditional breakfasts, designed to nurture the family with minimal fuss. Using apples and warming spices highlights the seasonal flavors of American autumn, making it a timeless dish that feels both nostalgic and nourishing.