Description

These make-ahead apple cinnamon oatmeal cups are a stress-free, kid-approved breakfast solution. They are freezer-friendly, customizable, and provide sustained energy for busy mornings.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
2 large eggs
2 medium apples (peeled and diced small)
2 tablespoons melted butter (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Optional: ¼ cup dark chocolate chips
Optional: 1 scoop protein powder

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Wash, peel (optional), and dice apples into small, uniform pieces (about the size of blueberries). Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together milk, melted butter, eggs, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
Add rolled oats and cinnamon to the wet mixture. Stir well to ensure oats are submerged. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow oats to absorb liquid.
Add diced apples (and optional add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips) to the oat mixture. Stir until evenly distributed.
Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with oil or spray.
Spoon the batter into each muffin cup, filling them about ¾ full. Flatten tops slightly.
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let cups cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Notes

Do not use instant or steel-cut oats as they will alter the texture. Letting the oats soak in the milk for 5 minutes is crucial for tender results. For freezing, place cooled cups on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to bags to prevent sticking. Reheat in microwave for 30-60 seconds.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 oatmeal cup
Calories: 180
Sugar: 12
Sodium: 120
Fat: 6
Saturated Fat: 3
Carbohydrates: 28
Fiber: 3
Protein: 5

Keywords: apple cinnamon oatmeal cups, make-ahead breakfast, freezer-friendly breakfast, healthy oatmeal muffins, kid-friendly breakfast, meal prep breakfast