Name: Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups old-fashioned oats; 1 1/2 cups milk (whole, almond, oat, or coconut milk); 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup maple syrup (Coombs Family Farms organic recommended); 1 tsp baking powder; 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 tsp nutmeg; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 cup chopped peeled apple (firm, sweet-tart varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith); 1/2 cup chopped walnuts; Coarse sugar for sprinkling (optional)

Introduction

Baked apple cinnamon oatmeal cups offer a cozy, delicious start to your day with the convenience of a grab-and-go treat. Sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and hearty oats combine to create a comforting breakfast that’s perfect for busy mornings. These portioned cups can be made ahead and enjoyed throughout the week.

The image shows several small oatmeal cups arranged on a white marbled surface. Each oatmeal cup has a base and sides made of cooked oats mixed with a cinnamon or spice blend giving a light brown color with a textured, grainy look. On top of each cup, there are five thin slices of pale yellow apple, arranged in a circular pattern like petals, some with a hint of red skin. In the center of the apple slices, there is a small mound of coarse white sugar crystals, adding a sparkly touch. The surface of the oatmeal looks moist and slightly glossy. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 cups old-fashioned oats

1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

2 large eggs

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

1 cup chopped peeled apple (firm, sweet-tart variety)

1 tsp baking powder

1 1/2 cups milk

1/2 cup chopped walnuts

1 1/2 tsp cinnamon

1/4 tsp nutmeg

1/2 cup maple syrup

1/4 tsp salt

Coarse sugar for sprinkling (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Generously spray a muffin pan with nonstick spray. If using muffin liners, spray them as well, though liners are optional since oatmeal cups can stick to them.

Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together all ingredients except the apples, walnuts, and coarse sugar. Gently fold in the chopped apples and walnuts with a spoon or spatula. The batter will be slightly liquidy.

Step 3: Spoon the batter evenly into the muffin cups, filling each all the way to the top to ensure full muffins. Optionally, sprinkle coarse sugar on top for extra sweetness and crunch.

Step 4: Bake for 28-30 minutes until edges are lightly browned and tops are set. If tops brown too quickly, cover the pan loosely with foil to prevent burning.

Step 5: Let the oatmeal cups cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes before serving to help them set and make handling easier.

Step 6: Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to one week.

Tips & Variations

Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture; quick oats can make cups mushy, and steel-cut oats won’t soften enough.

Swap maple syrup with honey, agave nectar, or brown sugar (use 1/3 cup for brown sugar) to change the sweetness.

Replace applesauce with mashed banana, pumpkin puree, or mashed pear for a different flavor and moisture.

Try other fruits like pears or berries (frozen can be used without thawing) instead of apples.

Use any nuts you prefer, or skip nuts for a nut-free option.

Fill muffin cups only about 3/4 full to allow for rising and even baking to avoid overly dense cups.

Storage

Store baked oatmeal cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making them a perfect meal prep breakfast. They also freeze well for up to 3 months; wrap each cup individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. To reheat, microwave refrigerated cups for about 30 seconds; frozen cups can be thawed overnight or microwaved for 60 seconds. Adding a splash of milk while reheating keeps them moist.

FAQs

What kind of oats work best for oatmeal cups?

Old-fashioned rolled oats are best because they hold their shape and provide a hearty texture. Quick oats may result in mushy cups, and steel-cut oats won’t soften enough during baking.

Can I make these oatmeal cups vegan?

Yes, substitute the eggs with flax or chia egg substitutes and use a plant-based milk. Also, replace the maple syrup with a vegan-friendly sweetener if desired.