Tasty Baked Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cups

I enjoy how easy these oatmeal cups are to prepare with basic pantry ingredients. I mix everything in one or two bowls, pour the batter into a muffin tin, and let the oven do the rest.

I also appreciate how naturally sweet they are from maple syrup and applesauce, which means I don’t need refined sugar. The apples add moisture and texture, while cinnamon and nutmeg give them that classic cozy flavor I crave in the mornings.

I find them perfect for meal prep because I can store them and reheat them quickly during busy weekdays.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 and 1/2 cups milk (360ml, either dairy or non-dairy)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup pure maple syrup (120ml)
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce (120g)
3 cups old-fashioned whole oats (255g)
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 and 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon powder
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg powder
1/2 teaspoon vanilla essence
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 generous cup chopped peeled apple (120g)
Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (50g)
Optional: coarse sugar for sprinkling

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin or line it with paper liners.

2. In a large bowl, I whisk together the milk, eggs, maple syrup, applesauce, and vanilla essence until smooth.

3. In another bowl, I mix the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

4. I combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients and stir until everything is well incorporated.

5. I fold in the chopped apple and, if I’m using them, the chopped walnuts or pecans.

6. I divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups, filling each almost to the top. If I want a slightly crisp top, I sprinkle a little coarse sugar over each cup.

7. I bake for about 25–30 minutes, or until the tops are set and lightly golden.

8. I let them cool in the pan for about 5–10 minutes before removing them to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 servings, with about 2 to 3 oatmeal cups per serving depending on the size of my muffin tin.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: About 40 minutes

Variations

I sometimes swap the chopped apple for diced pear when I want a slightly different fruity flavor.

I like adding raisins or dried cranberries for extra sweetness and texture.

For a dairy-free version, I use almond milk or oat milk.

When I want extra crunch, I stir in sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead of nuts.

If I’m in the mood for a richer taste, I add a tablespoon of melted butter or coconut oil to the batter.

storage/reheating

I store the cooled oatmeal cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

For longer storage, I freeze them in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.

When I’m ready to eat one, I reheat it in the microwave for about 20–30 seconds if refrigerated, or about 45–60 seconds if frozen. I sometimes warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–10 minutes for a fresher-baked texture.

FAQs

Can I make these oatmeal cups ahead of time?

Yes, I often make them at the beginning of the week and store them in the fridge. They reheat beautifully and save me time on busy mornings.

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

I can use quick oats, but I find the texture slightly softer and less hearty. Old-fashioned oats give me a better structure.

Can I make this recipe without eggs?

I sometimes replace each egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water). The texture is a bit softer, but it still works well.

How do I know when they are done baking?

I check that the tops are set and lightly golden. When I insert a toothpick in the center, it should come out mostly clean.

Can I make this recipe sweeter?

If I prefer a sweeter result, I add an extra tablespoon or two of maple syrup or sprinkle a bit more coarse sugar on top before baking.

Conclusion

I love how these baked apple cinnamon oatmeal cups combine simple ingredients with comforting flavors. They make my mornings easier, healthier, and more satisfying. Whether I enjoy them fresh from the oven or reheated during the week, they always bring warmth and homemade goodness to my table.