A wholesome, naturally sweet breakfast bake made with tender apples, hearty oats, warm cinnamon, and crunchy almonds. This delicious recipe contains no added sugar and is perfect for a healthy breakfast, meal prep, or a satisfying afternoon snack!
Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 2 medium apples, peeled and finely diced
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (dairy or unsweetened almond milk)
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ¼ cup chopped almonds
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup dried cranberries (optional, preferably unsweetened)
- 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil or butter
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, applesauce, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil until well combined.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: Add the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Add the Apples: Fold in the diced apples, half of the chopped almonds, and dried cranberries if using.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the oat mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly and sprinkle the remaining chopped almonds over the top.
- Bake: Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the breakfast bake to cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with Greek yogurt, fresh apple slices, or a splash of milk.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–45 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 55–60 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Course: Breakfast
- Cuisine: Healthy American
- Diet: No Added Sugar
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 245 kcal
- Protein: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fat: 9 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Sugar: 10 g (naturally occurring)
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Sodium: 160 mg
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on the milk, almonds, and other ingredients used.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No added refined sugar.
- Naturally sweetened with fresh apples and applesauce.
- Packed with fiber from oats and apples.
- Almonds provide healthy fats and extra crunch.
- Great for breakfast meal prep.
- Easy to customize with your favorite fruits and nuts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is this apple oat bake completely sugar-free?
No. It contains naturally occurring sugars from apples, applesauce, and milk, but no added refined sugar.
Q2: Can I prepare it the night before?
Yes! Mix the ingredients, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning.
Q3: Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but the texture may be softer. Rolled oats give the best hearty texture.
Q4: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use unsweetened almond milk or oat milk.
Q5: Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Cut into individual portions, wrap well, and freeze for up to 2–3 months.
Q6: How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.
Q7: What can I use instead of almonds?
Try chopped walnuts, pecans, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds.
Q8: How do I know when it’s fully baked?
The center should be set, the edges lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted near the center should come out without wet batter.