Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Breakfast Bake
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I love starting my day with a warm and comforting breakfast, and this Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Breakfast Bake always delivers. The blend of creamy yogurt, sweet apples, and fragrant cinnamon creates a dish that's both nutritious and satisfying. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, which is a must for busy mornings. With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip up this bake and enjoy a delicious meal that feels indulgent but is wholesome at the same time.
When I first crafted this recipe, I wanted to merge my love for baked goods with a healthy twist. The combination of yogurt and oats not only provides a delightful creaminess but also keeps me full longer. I added in fresh apples for a little extra sweetness and a punch of fiber, which has made this dish a family favorite.
Over time, I've discovered that letting the dish sit for a few minutes after baking helps enhance the flavors as everything melds together beautifully. This tip has truly transformed my breakfast routine and brought a new level of enjoyment to our mornings!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy yogurt texture combined with soft, baked apples
- A delightful hint of cinnamon that warms your soul
- Perfect for meal prep; just reheat for a quick breakfast
Ingredient Insights
Using plain Greek yogurt in this breakfast bake adds creaminess and a significant protein boost, making it both filling and nutritious. Greek yogurt also helps achieve a velvety texture that pairs wonderfully with the baked apples. If you prefer a dairy-free option, consider unflavored coconut yogurt; it adds a subtle sweetness while keeping the richness intact. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will shift slightly with this substitution.
The sweetness in this dish largely comes from the apples and honey or maple syrup. Choose naturally sweet apple varieties, such as Fuji or Honeycrisp, to enhance the overall flavor without needing excessive added sugars. As for honey or maple syrup, you can adjust the sweetness to your taste, starting with less and adding more as needed, especially if you're using tart apples.
Baking Tips
Properly greasing your baking dish is essential to ensure the breakfast bake doesn't stick and makes for easy serving. Use a non-stick spray or rub the dish with a small amount of oil or butter. You can go for a glass or ceramic dish, which allows for even baking; just avoid using a flimsy aluminum pan to prevent over-browning on the edges.
When it comes to baking, keep an eye on the color and texture as you approach the 30-minute mark. The edges should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. If you find the edges browning too quickly, consider covering the dish with aluminum foil during the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning.
Storage and Reheating
This Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Breakfast Bake is perfect for meal prep! After it cools completely, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Alternatively, it can be frozen for longer storage; cut it into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for about 2 months.
To reheat, simply place a portion in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through. For those who prefer a crispy texture, pop it in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated and slightly crisped on top. This ensures you can enjoy a warm breakfast even after prepping ahead.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:
Ingredients
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup milk (or non-dairy alternative)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your breakfast bake:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, eggs, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and diced apples.
Combine and Add Milk
Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir in the milk until well combined.
Bake
Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish and sprinkle with chopped nuts, if using. Bake for 30 minutes until set and golden brown.
Cool and Serve
Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into squares. Enjoy warm!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, try mixing in some dried fruits or spices like nutmeg. This breakfast bake can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheats beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This breakfast bake is delightful on its own but can be elevated with a few toppings. Adding a dollop of almond butter or a sprinkle of granola on top provides a nice crunch and extra flavor. If you enjoy a bit of indulgence, consider serving it with a drizzle of yogurt and a dusting of cinnamon for an appealing presentation.
Pair this bake with a fresh fruit salad or a green smoothie for a balanced breakfast. The freshness of the fruit will complement the warm cinnamon and apples beautifully, making your breakfast not just filling but also incredibly refreshing.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with the types of fruits you use! Pears or berries can be excellent substitutions for apples, giving the dish a different flavor profile. Additionally, you might try adding a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for extra texture and sweetness, which can also cater to those who prefer dried fruits over fresh.
If you're looking for a higher fiber option, consider using a mix of rolled oats and ground flaxseed. This not only improves the nutrient density but adds a nuttiness that complements the cinnamon and apples perfectly. Adjust the liquid content slightly if adding ground flax, as it absorbs moisture well.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use non-dairy yogurt?
Yes, feel free to substitute with any non-dairy yogurt of your choice.
→ What types of apples work best?
I recommend using tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweetness and acidity.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and simply bake it in the morning for a quick breakfast.
→ How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Breakfast Bake
I love starting my day with a warm and comforting breakfast, and this Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Breakfast Bake always delivers. The blend of creamy yogurt, sweet apples, and fragrant cinnamon creates a dish that's both nutritious and satisfying. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, which is a must for busy mornings. With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip up this bake and enjoy a delicious meal that feels indulgent but is wholesome at the same time.
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups plain Greek yogurt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup milk (or non-dairy alternative)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, eggs, honey, and vanilla extract until smooth.
In another bowl, mix the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and diced apples.
Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir in the milk until well combined.
Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish and sprinkle with chopped nuts, if using. Bake for 30 minutes until set and golden brown.
Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into squares. Enjoy warm!
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, try mixing in some dried fruits or spices like nutmeg. This breakfast bake can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheats beautifully.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 60mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 11g