Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups

If you’re looking for a delightful breakfast that’s both comforting and nutritious, look no further than these Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups. They are like little hugs in the morning, filled with warm apple and cinnamon goodness. This recipe has become a favorite in my home because it’s so easy to whip up and perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends alike. Whether you’re feeding a crowd at a family gathering or just treating yourself, these oatmeal cups will surely bring smiles all around.

These little delights are not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients. They make for a fantastic meal prep option, allowing you to grab one on the go during your hectic weekdays. Trust me; once you try them, they’ll be a staple in your breakfast rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: With just ten minutes of prep time, you’ll be on your way to enjoying these tasty treats without any stress.
• Kid-Approved Flavor: The sweet apples and warm spices meld beautifully, making them irresistible to kids and adults alike!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Bake a batch ahead of time and enjoy throughout the week—just pop them in the microwave for a quick breakfast.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with oats, fruit, and natural sweeteners, they’re as nourishing as they are delicious.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or fruits for a personal touch!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully! Gathering them is half the fun, so let’s get started.

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 Mix-Ins

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

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 28 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

This recipe is so flexible! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the nuts: Feel free to use your favorite nuts like almonds or hazelnuts instead of walnuts or pecans.
• Add dried fruit: Toss in some raisins or cranberries for an extra burst of flavor.
• Make it grain-free: Substitute oats with quinoa flakes for a gluten-free version.
• Change the spices: Experiment with pumpkin pie spice instead of cinnamon for a seasonal twist.

How to Make Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—let’s preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential because starting with a hot oven ensures that your oatmeal cups rise perfectly and have that delightful golden color.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, maple syrup, applesauce, and vanilla essence until well combined. This mixture is where all the moisture comes from; it’s crucial for keeping your oatmeal cups tender and flavorful!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the oats, baking powder, cinnamon powder, nutmeg powder, and salt. Stirring these dry ingredients helps distribute the flavors evenly throughout the mixture.

Step 4: Fold Everything Together

Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix! We want those lovely textures from the oats to shine through.

Step 5: Add Apples and Nuts

Now it’s time to add in those chopped apples and optional nuts if you’re using them. Mixing these in adds freshness and crunch—yum!

Step 6: Bake!

Scoop the mixture into greased muffin tins or silicone molds—fill each cup about three-quarters full. Bake in your preheated oven for about 28 minutes or until they are golden brown on top. The aroma will fill your kitchen with warmth!

Step 7: Cool & Enjoy

Once baked, let them cool for a few minutes before removing them from their molds. Enjoy them warm as they are or sprinkle some coarse sugar on top for an extra touch of sweetness.

And there you have it! Your Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups are ready to be devoured. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups

Making these oatmeal cups is a breeze, but a few tips can help you elevate them to the next level.

• Use ripe apples: Choosing apples that are perfectly ripe enhances the natural sweetness and flavor of your oatmeal cups, making each bite more delightful.
• Mix in extra spices: If you love a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cloves or ginger. These spices complement the cinnamon beautifully and add depth to the flavor.
• Customize with toppings: Feel free to experiment with different nuts or dried fruits. This not only adds texture but also makes your oatmeal cups unique and personalized.
• Let them cool before serving: Allowing the oatmeal cups to cool slightly helps them set up better, making them easier to remove from the muffin tin and giving them a perfect texture.
• Batch cook for convenience: These oatmeal cups store well in the fridge or freezer. Prepare a larger batch and enjoy quick breakfasts throughout the week!

How to Serve Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups

These oatmeal cups are not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some fun ideas to present this dish beautifully at your breakfast table!

Garnishes

• Drizzle of almond butter: A light drizzle of almond butter adds creaminess and an extra layer of flavor that perfectly complements the apples and cinnamon.
• Sprinkle of cinnamon sugar: For an added touch of sweetness and crunch, sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top right before serving.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing bowl of mixed seasonal fruits provides a bright contrast to the warm oatmeal cups, enhancing your breakfast experience.
• Greek yogurt with honey: Creamy Greek yogurt drizzled with honey adds protein and richness, making your meal more satisfying while balancing out the flavors.
• Chia seed pudding: This nutritious side dish can be made ahead of time and offers a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the warm oats.
• Smoothie: A fruity smoothie can be a great accompaniment, offering hydration and additional vitamins while being easy to whip up in minutes.

With these serving ideas and pro tips, you’ll create not just tasty baked apple cinnamon oatmeal cups but an entire breakfast experience that everyone will love!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prepping! You can easily whip up a batch at the start of your week for quick breakfasts or snacks.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover oatmeal cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Allow the oatmeal cups to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from the fridge, simply microwave each cup for about 30-45 seconds or until heated through.
• If reheating from frozen, microwave on low power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delightful oatmeal cups!

Can I make Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute regular milk with any non-dairy milk of your choice, like almond or oat milk.

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

They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I use other fruits instead of apples in these oatmeal cups?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other fruits such as pears, berries, or bananas to create your own unique flavor combinations.

Are Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! These oatmeal cups are easy to prep ahead of time and can be stored in the fridge or freezer for a convenient breakfast option throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups as much as I do! They’re a wholesome and delightful way to start your day. Whether you savor them fresh out of the oven or grab one on-the-go, they’re sure to bring a smile to your face. Happy baking!