Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of warm cinnamon, sweet apples, and toasted pecans filling your kitchen - that's exactly what this Apple Cinnamon Pecan Baked Oatmeal promises! This isn't just another boring breakfast; it's a culinary experience that turns ordinary mornings into extraordinary moments of pure deliciousness. Whether you're a busy professional, a health-conscious foodie, or a weekend brunch enthusiast, this recipe will revolutionize your breakfast game with its perfect blend of comfort, nutrition, and mouthwatering flavor.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 large eggs
- 1 apple, diced
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, chopped pecans, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix thoroughly to distribute ingredients evenly.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together milk, maple syrup, and eggs until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Dice the apple into small, uniform cubes, approximately 1/4-inch in size. If desired, leave the apple skin on for added texture and nutrition.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until completely incorporated. The mixture should have a smooth, slightly runny consistency.
- Fold the diced apples into the oatmeal mixture, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout.
- Transfer the entire mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle additional chopped pecans on top for extra crunch and visual appeal.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oatmeal is set in the center.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. The baked oatmeal will continue to set as it cools.
- Serve warm, optionally topped with additional maple syrup, a dollop of yogurt, or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon.
Tips
- Use fresh, crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best texture and flavor balance.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk.
- Toast the pecans briefly before adding them to enhance their nutty flavor.
- Make sure to grease your baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Allow the baked oatmeal to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking - this helps it set and makes serving easier.
- Prep this dish the night before and refrigerate, then bake in the morning for a quick, hassle-free breakfast.
- Experiment with additional mix-ins like dried cranberries or a sprinkle of nutmeg for variety.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 270kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 60mg
