Baked Apple Oatmeal Cups are a cozy, make-ahead breakfast option perfect for busy mornings or fall-inspired meal prep. These wholesome cups are made with rolled oats, apples, and warm spices, giving you the taste of apple pie in a healthy, handheld form.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 ¼ cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• ⅓ cup maple syrup or honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil or butter
• 1 ½ cups finely chopped apples (peeled or unpeeled)
• Optional: ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• Optional: ¼ cup raisins or dried cranberries

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil or butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in the chopped apples and any optional add-ins like nuts or dried fruit.
6. Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
7. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let the oatmeal cups cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 140
• Total Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 90mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 20g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 8g
• Protein: 4g
• Vitamin A: 2% DV
• Vitamin C: 2% DV
• Calcium: 6% DV
• Iron: 6% DV

Health Benefits of Baked Apple Oatmeal Cups

Baked Apple Oatmeal Cups are not just delicious—they’re packed with health benefits that make them a smart choice for breakfast. Rolled oats are a powerhouse of fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which helps reduce cholesterol levels and supports heart health. Apples contribute vitamins like vitamin C and a good dose of antioxidants, while also adding natural sweetness. The inclusion of eggs provides high-quality protein to keep you full and energized throughout the morning. Using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup makes them a healthier alternative to sugar-laden pastries, while optional nuts and dried fruits enhance their nutrient density.

Perfect for Meal Prep and Busy Mornings

One of the greatest advantages of Baked Apple Oatmeal Cups is how well they suit meal prep routines. A single batch yields multiple servings that can be stored and quickly reheated, making them ideal for grab-and-go breakfasts during hectic mornings. Unlike traditional oatmeal, which requires stovetop or microwave prep, these cups are pre-baked and portable, saving time and effort. Their individual serving size also helps with portion control, making it easier to stay on track with dietary goals or family meal planning.

Kid-Friendly and Customizable

These oatmeal cups are a hit with both adults and kids. Their muffin-like shape makes them fun and easy for children to eat, whether at the breakfast table or packed in a lunchbox. Because the base recipe is neutral and mildly sweet, it’s easy to tailor to individual tastes. You can mix in chocolate chips for a treat, sneak in some grated carrots or zucchini for extra veggies, or adjust the spices for a stronger cinnamon or nutmeg flavor. This flexibility means you can easily cater to picky eaters or food allergies by using gluten-free oats or plant-based milk alternatives.

Great for Seasonal Cooking

Baked Apple Oatmeal Cups are particularly fitting for fall and winter when apples are in season and warm, spiced foods are most comforting. The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and baked apple evokes the flavor of apple pie, making it a nostalgic yet wholesome way to start the day. However, the recipe can be adapted to match other seasons too—swap apples for berries in the summer or pumpkin purée in the autumn for a different twist while still using the same method and ratios.

Pairing Suggestions

While these oatmeal cups are filling on their own, pairing them with other breakfast foods can elevate your morning spread. Serve them with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey for added protein and creaminess. Fresh fruit on the side, such as banana slices or a berry medley, complements the oats beautifully. For a heartier meal, combine them with a hard-boiled egg or turkey sausage. For beverages, hot tea, coffee, or even a homemade smoothie pairs well with their warm, mildly sweet flavor.

Storage and Freezing Tips

These oatmeal cups store exceptionally well, making them a reliable option for weekly meal plans. Once cooled, they can be placed in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, freezing is a great option. Wrap each cup individually in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, simply microwave one or two cups for 30–60 seconds, or pop them in a toaster oven until warmed through. They retain their texture and flavor well even after freezing and reheating.

Ideas for Add-Ins and Flavor Twists

Baked Apple Oatmeal Cups are a perfect canvas for creativity. Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch and healthy fats. Dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dates offer natural sweetness and chewiness. For a tropical variation, try adding shredded coconut and pineapple. A pinch of ground ginger or allspice can give a spicier profile, while a tablespoon of almond butter stirred into the batter can provide extra richness. If you’re feeling indulgent, a few dark chocolate chips scattered into the mix can transform them into a treat without making them overly sweet.

Dietary Modifications

This recipe is inherently adaptable to suit different dietary preferences or restrictions. To make it gluten-free, simply use certified gluten-free oats. For a dairy-free version, replace regular milk with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. The eggs can be substituted with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg) to make the recipe vegan-friendly. Replacing maple syrup or honey with a sugar-free sweetener can also make the oatmeal cups more suitable for low-carb or diabetic-friendly diets, depending on individual health needs.

Environmental and Budget-Friendly Qualities

Oatmeal cups are not only good for you—they’re good for your wallet and the planet. Oats and apples are generally affordable and widely available, making this a cost-effective recipe for feeding a family or meal prepping for the week. The recipe also minimizes food waste, as it can easily incorporate overripe apples or leftover nuts and dried fruits. By using reusable muffin liners or baking cups and storing in reusable containers, you can reduce single-use plastic consumption and make your breakfast routine more sustainable.

Make It a Brunch Favorite

If you’re hosting a brunch or potluck, baked apple oatmeal cups can be an excellent addition to the table. They offer a lighter, healthier contrast to richer brunch foods like quiche, pastries, or breakfast casseroles. Display them on a tray with garnishes like powdered cinnamon, yogurt, or apple slices for a beautiful presentation. Their ease of serving and finger-food nature make them perfect for group gatherings, and guests will appreciate the balance of nutrition and flavor they provide.

Conclusion

Baked Apple Oatmeal Cups are a wholesome, flexible, and flavorful way to make breakfast more convenient and satisfying. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student on-the-go, or someone trying to eat healthier, these cozy cups offer the perfect solution. They combine the comforting flavors of apple and cinnamon with the nutritional benefits of oats, eggs, and fruits, all in an easy-to-make, easy-to-store format.