Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Breakfast Bake
Highlighted under: Creative Baking Ideas
I absolutely love starting my day with something warm and comforting, and this Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Breakfast Bake truly hits the spot. The combination of creamy yogurt, sweet apples, and warm cinnamon creates a deliciously satisfying breakfast that’s perfect for both busy weekdays and leisurely weekends. I enjoy making this recipe for my family, as it feels indulgent yet is simple to prepare. The best part? It fills the kitchen with an enticing aroma that invites everyone to the breakfast table!
When I first created this recipe, I was inspired by the simple joys of breakfast gatherings with family. I wanted to make a dish that was hearty yet healthy, with flavors we all love. The yogurt provides a creamy base, while the baked apples bring a wonderful sweetness that pairs perfectly with the warmth of cinnamon. By using rolled oats, I also add a nice texture and fiber, making it a wholesome choice.
One of the tips I learned while experimenting is to let the bake sit for a few minutes before cutting into it. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste. Plus, serving it warm is key; the comforting aroma and flavors will undoubtedly win over anyone sitting at the breakfast table!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Warm and comforting flavors of cinnamon and apple
- Healthy balance of yogurt and oats for a nutritious start
- Perfectly sweetened without refined sugars
Understanding the Ingredients
The star ingredients in this breakfast bake are Greek yogurt and rolled oats, which not only provide creaminess but also pack a punch of protein and fiber. Greek yogurt contributes to a rich texture while adding beneficial probiotics to your meal. The oats serve as a fantastic base, providing chewiness that contrasts beautifully with the tender diced apples, which enhance the dish with natural sweetness and moisture.
Diced apples are essential in this recipe as they will soften during baking, releasing their juices and creating a sweet, pie-like flavor. Opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for balanced sweetness. Additionally, you can experiment with different varieties to find your favorite blend. Just be sure to cut them into uniform pieces for even cooking.
Perfecting the Baking Technique
When baking, it's crucial to monitor the timing closely. After about 30 minutes in the oven, check for doneness by looking for a firm center and lightly golden edges on top. If the center is still wobbly or too moist, bake for an additional 5 minutes, checking every few minutes until set. This ensures you're achieving the perfect texture without drying it out or undercooking.
Allowing the breakfast bake to cool for a few minutes before slicing helps it set further, making it easier to cut into squares. If you find it sticking to the pan, a non-stick spray or parchment paper works wonders for easy removal, preserving those beautiful edges and preventing any waste.
Ingredients
For the Bake
- 2 cups Greek yogurt
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 cups diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
- 1/2 cup almond milk (or dairy milk)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
Preparation Steps
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, eggs, almond milk, honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt until smooth. Then, fold in the rolled oats and diced apples.
Bake
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until set and the top is lightly golden.
Cool and Serve
Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes before cutting into squares. Serve warm with extra yogurt on the side if desired.
Enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For added texture, consider mixing in some chopped nuts or seeds before baking. A dollop of yogurt on top during serving adds creaminess and enhances the flavor!
Storage and Reheating Tips
To enjoy your Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Breakfast Bake throughout the week, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. You can reheat individual squares in the microwave for about 30-40 seconds, or until warm. Alternatively, for a crispier top, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 10 minutes.
If you're planning to enjoy this bake later, consider freezing portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. This way, you'll maintain the flavor and moisture. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as mentioned.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
This breakfast bake is versatile and can easily be dressed up. For a delightful touch, serve with a dollop of additional Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. You can also add some chopped nuts or a drizzle of maple syrup for extra flavor and texture, which pairs beautifully with the warmth from the baked apples.
Feel free to change up the flavors by incorporating different fruits like berries or pears, or even adding spices such as nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist. For a dairy-free version, almond yogurt can be substituted for Greek yogurt, maintaining a creamy texture, while plant-based milk options ensure everyone at the table can enjoy this comforting dish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this bake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the mixture the night before, cover it, and let it sit in the fridge. In the morning, just pour it into the baking dish and bake.
→ What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?
You can use regular yogurt, but for a creamier texture, be sure to choose a full-fat version.
→ Can I use frozen apples?
Yes, you can use frozen apples, but make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before adding them to the mixture.
→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, and you can easily reheat individual portions in the microwave.
Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Breakfast Bake
I absolutely love starting my day with something warm and comforting, and this Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Breakfast Bake truly hits the spot. The combination of creamy yogurt, sweet apples, and warm cinnamon creates a deliciously satisfying breakfast that’s perfect for both busy weekdays and leisurely weekends. I enjoy making this recipe for my family, as it feels indulgent yet is simple to prepare. The best part? It fills the kitchen with an enticing aroma that invites everyone to the breakfast table!
Created by: Allegra Stone
Recipe Type: Creative Baking Ideas
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: Serves 6
What You'll Need
For the Bake
- 2 cups Greek yogurt
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 cups diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
- 1/2 cup almond milk (or dairy milk)
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, eggs, almond milk, honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt until smooth. Then, fold in the rolled oats and diced apples.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until set and the top is lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes before cutting into squares. Serve warm with extra yogurt on the side if desired.
Extra Tips
- For added texture, consider mixing in some chopped nuts or seeds before baking. A dollop of yogurt on top during serving adds creaminess and enhances the flavor!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 180mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 56g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 12g