Name: Creamy Vegan Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups old-fashioned oats; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup applesauce; 2 1/2 cups nondairy milk (such as oat milk); 4 tbsp vegan butter, melted; 2 tbsp ground flaxseed; 2 tbsp hemp hearts; 1 tsp apple pie spice; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup walnuts; 1 apple, diced small (about 1 cup)

This creamy vegan apple cinnamon baked oatmeal is one of my favorite cozy breakfasts. It’s warm, lightly spiced, and filled with tender apples and crunchy walnuts, all baked into a hearty oatmeal base. I love how comforting it feels on a chilly morning, and it makes the kitchen smell amazing while it bakes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s easy to prepare and perfect for both meal prep and family breakfasts. The apples add natural sweetness and juiciness, while the cinnamon and apple pie spice give that classic fall flavor. I also like how creamy the oatmeal turns out thanks to the applesauce and oat milk. It’s nourishing, filling, and feels like a treat while still being wholesome.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

2 ¼ cups old-fashioned oats I recommend One Degree Organics
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup applesauce
2 ½ cups nondairy milk I used oat milk
4 tablespoon vegan butter melted
2 tablespoon ground flaxseed
2 tablespoon hemp hearts
1 teaspoon apple pie spice
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
½ cup walnuts
1 apple diced small (about 1 cup)

Directions

I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
In a large bowl, I mix the oats, brown sugar, flaxseed, hemp hearts, apple pie spice, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, I whisk together the oat milk, applesauce, melted vegan butter, and vanilla extract.
I pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
I fold in the diced apple and walnuts.
I transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
I bake for 40–45 minutes, until the oatmeal is set and the top is golden brown.
I let it cool slightly before slicing and serving warm.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings. It takes around 15 minutes to prepare and 40–45 minutes to bake, so I usually have it ready in about 1 hour.

Variations

I like swapping the walnuts for pecans or almonds for a different crunch. Sometimes I add raisins or dried cranberries for extra sweetness. For a creamier version, I drizzle a little warm oat milk over each serving. If I’m craving dessert, I even top it with a dollop of vegan whipped cream or vanilla yogurt.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm slices in the microwave for about a minute or in the oven at 325°F until heated through. This baked oatmeal also freezes well I cut it into portions, wrap them individually, and reheat as needed.

FAQs

Can I make this baked oatmeal ahead of time?

Yes, I often bake it the night before and simply reheat it in the morning.

Do I need to peel the apple?

No, I like leaving the skin on for extra texture and nutrients, but peeling works too.

Can I make this without nuts?

Yes, I just leave them out or replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower.

What nondairy milk works best?

I prefer oat milk for creaminess, but almond, soy, or coconut milk also work well.

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

I don’t recommend it since they get mushier, but they’ll still work if that’s all I have.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as I use certified gluten-free oats.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, I often cut the brown sugar in half or replace it with maple syrup for a lighter version.

How do I make this oil-free?

I skip the vegan butter and use a little more applesauce instead.

Can I add protein powder to this recipe?

Yes, I sometimes stir in a scoop of plant-based protein powder to make it more filling.

Can I eat this cold?

Yes, I enjoy leftovers straight from the fridge, especially in the summer.

Conclusion

This creamy vegan apple cinnamon baked oatmeal is one of my favorite breakfast bakes because it’s cozy, flavorful, and nourishing. I love how it’s simple to prepare yet feels special enough to serve to family or guests. It’s a warm, hearty dish that makes mornings feel comforting and delicious.