Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups
If you’re looking for a delightful breakfast that feels like a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place! Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups are not just delicious; they are also incredibly easy to make. These little gems combine the comforting flavors of apple and cinnamon with wholesome oats, making them perfect for busy mornings or cozy family gatherings. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and stored for later, which is a total win in my book!
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can enjoy them fresh out of the oven or as an on-the-go snack during hectic weekdays. Trust me, once you try these oatmeal cups, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch in no time!
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and warm flavors.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare them in advance for quick breakfasts all week long.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome oats and fruit, they’re a guilt-free treat.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! You likely have many of these staples on hand already. Here’s what you will need to create these scrumptious Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups:
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 Add-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
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have at home or your personal taste preferences. Here are some tasty variations to consider:
- Add More Fruit: Toss in some dried cranberries or raisins for an extra burst of sweetness.
- Switch Up the Nuts: Use almonds or sunflower seeds instead of walnuts or pecans for a different crunch.
- Make It Vegan: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg).
- 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
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your oatmeal cups cook evenly and get that lovely golden color.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, maple syrup, applesauce, and vanilla essence. This mixture brings moisture and sweetness to our oatmeal cups. Make sure everything is well combined!
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together the oats, baking powder, cinnamon powder, nutmeg powder, and salt. Combining dry ingredients first helps distribute the baking powder evenly throughout the mixture.
Step 4: Combine Everything Together
Now it’s time to mix! Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with dry ingredients. Stir gently until combined. Don’t worry about overmixing; we just want everything to come together nicely.
Step 5: Add Apples and Nuts
Fold in your chopped apples and any nuts you’ve chosen to include. This step adds flavor and texture that makes each bite so enjoyable.
Step 6: Bake
Spoon your mixture into muffin tins lined with paper liners or greased lightly. If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle some coarse sugar on top before baking. Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for about 28 minutes until they are set and golden brown.
Step 7: Cool & Enjoy
Once baked, let them cool for a few minutes before removing from the muffin tin. Serve warm or store them in an airtight container for later enjoyment!
I hope you enjoy making these Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups as much as I do! They truly are a delightful way to start your day!
Pro Tips for Making Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups
Making oatmeal cups can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help ensure yours turn out perfectly every time!
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Use ripe apples: Ripe apples not only add sweetness to your oatmeal cups but also enhance the overall flavor. Look for varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp for the best results.
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Experiment with spices: While cinnamon and nutmeg are classic choices, feel free to mix in a pinch of cardamom or ginger to give your oatmeal cups a unique twist. This adds depth to the flavor profile.
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Adjust sweetness: If you prefer your oatmeal cups on the sweeter side, consider adding a bit more maple syrup or even some dried fruits like raisins or cranberries. Just remember that balance is key!
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Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the mixture to rest for about 10 minutes before baking helps the oats absorb the liquid fully, resulting in a creamier texture throughout.
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Try different nuts: While walnuts and pecans are great options, you can also use almonds or hazelnuts for a different crunch. Each nut brings its own unique flavor that complements the apple cinnamon combination beautifully.
How to Serve Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups
These baked delights can be enjoyed in various ways, making breakfast even more exciting! Here are some fun ideas on how to present them:
Garnishes
- Maple syrup drizzle: A light drizzle of pure maple syrup just before serving adds an extra touch of sweetness and makes it look irresistible.
- Cinnamon sprinkle: A dusting of cinnamon on top not only enhances the aroma but also gives your oatmeal cups an appealing finish.
Side Dishes
- Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits like berries, bananas, and oranges provides a refreshing contrast and adds nutritional value.
- Yogurt parfait: Layer some dairy or non-dairy yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a creamy complement that balances the textures.
- Smoothie: A simple green smoothie made with spinach, banana, and almond milk pairs perfectly with these oatmeal cups, boosting your breakfast with extra nutrients.
- Nut butter spread: Serve these oatmeal cups alongside a small dish of almond or peanut butter for dipping; it’s a protein-packed way to enhance your meal!
With these tips and serving suggestions, your Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups will not only taste amazing but also look inviting on any breakfast table! Enjoy this warm and cozy meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.
Make Ahead and Storage
These Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a wholesome breakfast throughout the week! They store well and can be easily customized for your needs.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the oatmeal cups to cool completely.
- Place them in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing
- Cool the oatmeal cups thoroughly before freezing.
- Wrap each cup tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place wrapped cups in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Remove an oatmeal cup from the fridge or freezer.
- For refrigerated cups, simply microwave on high for about 30-60 seconds.
- For frozen cups, microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds until heated through.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups!
Can I make Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal! Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken before adding it to your mixture.
How do I customize my Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups?
Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins! Options like dried fruits, shredded coconut, or different nuts can add variety and flavor to your oatmeal cups.
Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
While old-fashioned oats give the best texture, you can use quick oats in a pinch. Just remember that they may result in a softer, less structured cup.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings of Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups, making them perfect for sharing or enjoying throughout the week!
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in making these Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups as much as I do! They offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will kickstart your day on a positive note. Enjoy experimenting with different toppings and mix-ins as you create your own version. Happy baking!
Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Start your day with a warm and comforting breakfast that’s both nutritious and easy to prepare—Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups! These delightful little cups blend the wholesome goodness of oats with the sweet flavors of apple and cinnamon, making them a perfect choice for busy mornings or cozy family gatherings. Not only are they simple to make, but they can also be prepared ahead of time, ensuring you always have a healthy breakfast option on hand. Enjoy them fresh from the oven or grab one for a quick snack on the go. Once you try these oatmeal cups, they’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 and 1/2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 3 cups old-fashioned whole oats
- 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
- 1 generous cup chopped peeled apple
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- Optional: coarse sugar for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, maple syrup, applesauce, and vanilla essence until well combined.
- In another bowl, mix the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients gently until just combined.
- Fold in chopped apples and optional nuts.
- Spoon the mixture into lined muffin tins and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.
- Bake for about 28 minutes until set and golden brown.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
