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Looking for a tasty and simple treat that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack? You’ll love these Cinnamon Apple Baked Oatmeal Cups! They are easy to make and full of flavor. In this post, we’ll go over the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips, and variations. Plus, I’ll share storage methods to keep them fresh. Ready to start baking? Let’s dive in and create something delicious together!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Healthy Start: These oatmeal cups are packed with fiber and nutrients, making them a wholesome breakfast option that keeps you full throughout the morning.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe comes together quickly, perfect for busy mornings.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients by adding your favorite fruits, nuts, or sweeteners to suit your taste.
- Meal Prep Friendly: These baked oatmeal cups store well in the fridge or freezer, making them an ideal choice for meal prep and on-the-go breakfasts.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make Cinnamon Apple Baked Oatmeal Cups, gather these ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 cups unsweetened applesauce
– 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup diced apples (about 1 large apple)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
– 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
Substitutions for Common Ingredients
You can swap ingredients based on your taste or needs. Here are some ideas:
– Rolled oats can be replaced with quick oats.
– Use agave syrup instead of honey or maple syrup for a vegan option.
– If you’re allergic to nuts, skip the walnuts or pecans.
– Unsweetened applesauce can be substituted with mashed bananas for a different flavor.
Nutritional Information
Each oatmeal cup provides a good balance of nutrients. Here’s a quick breakdown:
– Calories: Approximately 150 per cup
– Protein: About 3 grams
– Fiber: Around 4 grams
– Sugars: Depends on your sweetener choice, but generally low
– Fats: If you add nuts, fats will increase, mainly healthy fats from nuts
These cups are not only tasty, but they’re also a smart choice for breakfast or snacks. Enjoy these wholesome treats!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Muffin Tin
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step helps your oatmeal cups bake evenly. Next, grab a muffin tin. You can use paper liners or grease the tin with cooking spray. This helps the cups come out easily after baking.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add 2 cups of rolled oats, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Use a whisk or spoon to mix these dry ingredients well. Make sure they are evenly combined. This step ensures every bite is full of flavor.
Combining Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of unsweetened applesauce, 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. This blend adds moisture and sweetness to the oatmeal cups.
Baking Process and Tips
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently until they are just combined. Then, fold in 1 cup of diced apples and any optional add-ins like 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or 1/4 cup of raisins.
Now, scoop the oat mixture into the muffin cups. Fill each cup about three-quarters full. This allows the cups to rise without spilling over. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes. The tops should turn golden brown. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
Once baked, let the cups cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to handle. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and apple!
Tips & Tricks
How to Ensure Perfect Texture
To get the best texture, use rolled oats. Quick oats can make the cups mushy. Mix your dry ingredients well. This helps the baking powder spread evenly. When adding wet ingredients, stir gently. Over-mixing can lead to tough oatmeal cups. Filling the muffin cups three-quarters full allows them to rise nicely.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Serve these oatmeal cups warm for the best taste. Drizzle extra honey on top for added sweetness. A sprinkle of cinnamon makes them look great and taste even better. Pair them with yogurt for a creamy contrast. You can also enjoy them with fresh fruit on the side.
Storage Tips for Freshness
Let the oatmeal cups cool completely before storing. Keep them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for about a week in the fridge. You can freeze them too! Just wrap them well and store in a freezer bag. Thaw them overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven or microwave. This keeps them tasting fresh and delicious.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Apples: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh, crisp apples instead of canned or jarred options. Varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonderfully.
- Customize Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup based on your taste preference and the sweetness of your applesauce. You can also omit sweeteners entirely if you prefer a less sweet option.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add other mix-ins like shredded coconut, chocolate chips, or different nuts to vary the flavor profile and texture of your oatmeal cups.
- Store for Later: These oatmeal cups can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They also freeze well, making them a great option for meal prep!

Variations
Flavor Variations
You can change the flavors of your oatmeal cups easily. Try adding pumpkin puree instead of applesauce. This gives a warm, cozy taste. You can also mix in fresh blueberries for a burst of sweetness. If you want a fun twist, add mashed bananas for a rich flavor. Each option keeps the same base but changes the taste.
Dietary Modifications
If you follow a vegan diet, swap the egg for a flax egg. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. For gluten-free options, just use gluten-free rolled oats. This way, you can enjoy the oatmeal cups without worries.
Ingredient Swaps for Healthier Options
To make the cups even healthier, you can reduce the sweetener. Use only two tablespoons of honey or maple syrup instead of a quarter cup. Also, try using almond butter instead of nuts for added creaminess. Adding chia seeds can boost the fiber content. These small swaps make the recipe better while still tasting great.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Refrigeration
To keep your Cinnamon Apple Baked Oatmeal Cups fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers if stacking. This helps prevent sticking. They stay good in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze oatmeal cups for longer storage. Let them cool completely before freezing. Wrap each cup in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible. These can last up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating Tips for Leftovers
To enjoy your oatmeal cups again, simply reheat them. Pop them in the microwave for 30-45 seconds. If you prefer the oven, heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch.
FAQs
Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats. However, rolled oats give better texture. Instant oats may result in a softer cup. If you use them, reduce the baking time slightly.
How do I make these oatmeal cups dairy-free?
To make these oatmeal cups dairy-free, swap the egg for a flax egg. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes until it thickens. You can also use a dairy-free milk option if you want.
What can I use instead of honey or maple syrup?
If you want a substitute for honey or maple syrup, try agave nectar or brown sugar. You can also use coconut sugar, which adds a lovely flavor. Just keep the sweetness to your taste.
How long do these oatmeal cups last?
These oatmeal cups last about five days in the fridge. Make sure to store them in an airtight container for freshness. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw them in the fridge before eating.
We explored how to make delicious oatmeal cups. We looked at key ingredients, substitutions, and nutritional info. I shared step-by-step instructions to guide your baking process and tips for perfect texture. We also discussed flavor variations and storage methods to keep them fresh. These cups can fit many diets and preferences. Remember, adjust to your taste, and have fun. With these tips, you can enjoy tasty, healthy oatmeal cups any tim
Cinnamon Apple Baked Oatmeal Cups
Delicious and healthy oatmeal cups baked with apples and cinnamon, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 30 minutes mins
Total Time 40 minutes mins
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 150 kcal
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups unsweetened applesauce
- 0.25 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup diced apples
- 0.5 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 0.25 cup raisins or dried cranberries
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a muffin tin by lining it with paper liners or by greasing it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the applesauce, honey (or maple syrup), egg, and pure vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
Gradually pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until everything is just combined. Carefully fold in the diced apples and optional nuts, as well as the raisins or dried cranberries, if using.
Evenly distribute the oat mixture into the prepared muffin cups, filling each one about three-quarters full to allow for rising.
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the centers have set.
Let the oatmeal cups cool in the tin for approximately 5 minutes. Afterward, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely and firm up.
For an inviting serving, enjoy these oatmeal cups warm, drizzled with a touch of extra honey.
Keyword apple, baked, breakfast, healthy, oatmeal
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