Hearty Apple Cinnamon Pecan Baked Oatmeal: Your Ultimate Fall Breakfast Recipe
As the leaves begin to turn vibrant shades of crimson and gold, there’s a certain magic in the air, signaling the arrival of autumn. And what better way to embrace this cozy season than with a breakfast that captures its very essence? This Apple Cinnamon Pecan Baked Oatmeal is truly autumn in a bowl, a comforting blend of sweet apples, warming cinnamon, and crunchy pecans, all baked into a wholesome oatmeal, ready to be served for a truly hearty and satisfying start to your day.
Embracing the Beauty of Fall: A Personal Journey
Just last weekend, my family and I embarked on our cherished annual pilgrimage to the majestic Utah mountains, eager to witness the breathtaking spectacle of fall colors. We wound our way up a nearby canyon road, “oohing” and “ahhing” at every turn as the golden aspens shimmered against the crisp blue sky. After a delightful, toddler-friendly hike at the top of the pass, soaking in the panoramic views, we descended into a quaint mountain town. There, upholding a treasured tradition, we indulged in a decadent banana split, capping off a perfect day.
It was, as always, a truly fabulous little excursion, one I eagerly anticipate every single year. Utah, in all its diverse glory, is undeniably beautiful year-round. However, there’s something uniquely enchanting about the golden aspens in the fall that never fails to take my breath away. The air is crisp, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth, and the light takes on a soft, ethereal quality that transforms the landscape into a living painting. These moments of natural beauty are precisely what make living here so special, reminding me of the simple joys that each changing season brings.
I genuinely adore where I live for countless reasons, and the fact that we experience four distinct and characteristic seasons is undoubtedly high on that list. While winter’s chill will arrive all too soon, I’m currently savoring these precious days of mild temperatures, the absolutely gorgeous fall colors, and a wonderful mixture of gentle sunshine and refreshing rain. These conditions not only make for stunning scenery but also create the perfect ambiance for cozy mornings indoors, where a warm and comforting breakfast becomes an absolute necessity.
Why This Apple Cinnamon Pecan Baked Oatmeal is Your Fall Essential
This particular baked oatmeal, laden with juicy apples, crunchy pecans, and a symphony of warm spices, is undoubtedly designed for those gloriously gloomy fall days. You know the ones – when all you desire is to stay indoors, snuggled deeply in a warm blanket, and you crave something profoundly warm and cozy to kickstart your morning. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience, a delightful embrace of the season’s best flavors and comforts.
But beyond its undeniable charm, this Apple Cinnamon Pecan Baked Oatmeal offers so much more. Not only is it incredibly delicious – truly reminiscent of a comforting apple crisp, but perfectly acceptable for breakfast! – it’s also wonderfully hearty and remarkably good for you. Packed with the wholesome goodness of old-fashioned oats, fresh apples, and beneficial pecans, it provides sustained energy and essential nutrients to fuel your day. This makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking for a breakfast that balances indulgence with nutrition.
Moreover, for those who appreciate efficiency and meal prep, this recipe is a game-changer. Unless you’re feeding a large crowd, it’s also a fantastic dish to bake once and then enjoy all week long. Imagine waking up each morning to a delicious, ready-made breakfast that only needs a quick reheat. This convenience makes busy weekdays much smoother, allowing you to savor a homemade, healthy meal without the morning rush. It’s truly a testament to thoughtful cooking that brings joy and ease to your daily routine.
Unlock Convenience: Make it Overnight Baked Oatmeal
Are you looking to make your morning routine even more effortless? This Apple Cinnamon Pecan Baked Oatmeal recipe is wonderfully adaptable for overnight preparation. Simply assemble the oatmeal the night before, following the recipe steps up to the point of baking, and then chill it in the refrigerator while you sleep. The magic happens overnight as the flavors meld and the oats absorb the liquid, preparing for a perfect bake.
The next morning, all you need to do is pull your baking dish straight from the fridge and pop it into the preheated oven. In less than an hour, you’ll have a warm, fragrant, and homemade breakfast ready to enjoy without any morning fuss or stress. This make-ahead method is a lifesaver for busy mornings, allowing you to enjoy a nourishing and delicious start to your day with minimal effort, truly embodying the spirit of cozy, stress-free autumn living.
Apple Cinnamon Pecan Baked Oatmeal
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Ingredients
For the cooked apples:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (28 grams)
- 3 medium apples , peeled and chopped
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons packed light or dark brown sugar
For the oatmeal:
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats (not quick cooking) (200 grams)
- ⅓ cup packed light or dark brown sugar (37 grams)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ cup chopped pecans (57 grams)
- 2 cups milk (475 ml)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Cooked apples , from above
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350° F (175° C). Grease an 8-inch (20 cm) square baking dish, or dish of similar size.
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Place the butter, apples, cinnamon and brown sugar in a skillet and set over medium heat. Bring mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar. Reduce heat to low and simmer until apples are tender, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
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In a large bowl, combine the oats, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg and pecans. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg and vanilla extract until well combined. Add the wet mixture to the oat mixture and stir until everything is thoroughly combined. Pour this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Gently spoon the cooked apples on top of the oatmeal mixture.
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Bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oatmeal is set. Serve warm, optionally with additional milk or a drizzle of maple syrup, if desired. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
Notes
Carbohydrates: 53g,
Protein: 8g,
Fat: 16g,
Saturated Fat: 5g,
Cholesterol: 45mg,
Sodium: 247mg,
Potassium: 433mg,
Fiber: 6g,
Sugar: 30g,
Vitamin A: 337IU,
Vitamin C: 4mg,
Calcium: 168mg,
Iron: 2mg
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Beyond the Recipe: The Joy of Seasonal Eating
Preparing and enjoying dishes like this Apple Cinnamon Pecan Baked Oatmeal isn’t just about feeding our bodies; it’s about nourishing our souls and connecting with the rhythm of the seasons. There’s a profound satisfaction in using fresh, seasonal ingredients – the crispness of autumn apples, the comforting warmth of cinnamon, and the earthy crunch of pecans. These aren’t just flavors; they are sensory triggers that evoke memories of fall festivals, cozy evenings by the fire, and the simple beauty of nature’s bounty.
This recipe serves as a gentle reminder to slow down, appreciate the cooler weather, and indulge in the simple pleasures that autumn brings. Whether you’re making it for a bustling family breakfast or a quiet morning moment of self-care, this baked oatmeal promises to deliver comfort, warmth, and a taste of the season. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with a sprinkle of brown sugar on top before baking for an extra sweet crust, or served with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added protein and tang. The possibilities are endless, making it a staple for your fall recipe repertoire.
So, as the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, I encourage you to whip up a batch of this delightful Apple Cinnamon Pecan Baked Oatmeal. Let the aromas of baked apples and spices fill your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that truly captures the spirit of fall. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to savor the moments, embrace the seasonal changes, and create new cherished traditions around your breakfast table.