Laura Mariano
A Warm Slice of Amish Comfort
Amish-style baked oatmeal is more than just breakfast—it’s a cozy tradition rooted in simplicity and nourishment. Beloved in Amish communities for its heartiness and ease, this dish transforms humble pantry staples into a warm, satisfying start to the day. Inspired by comforting recipes from Mel’s Kitchen Cafe, Life with Janet, and Paula Cooks, baked oatmeal has become a staple for fall mornings, holiday brunches, and meal prep routines.
Unlike stovetop oats, this version bakes into a soft, cake-like texture with golden edges and customizable flavors. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping for the week, it’s a dish that delivers comfort and convenience. Add apples, nuts, or spices to make it your own, and enjoy it warm from the oven or chilled with a splash of milk. It’s the kind of breakfast that feels like a hug—and keeps you full all morning long.
What Is Amish-Style Baked Oatmeal?
Amish-style baked oatmeal is a rustic, nourishing breakfast that’s both hearty and versatile. Unlike traditional oatmeal, which is simmered on the stove, this version is baked in the oven until golden and set. The result is a soft, slightly chewy texture that holds its shape—perfect for slicing and serving.
The base is simple: rolled oats, eggs, milk, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. It’s lightly sweetened with brown sugar or maple syrup and often includes fruit, such as chopped apples or berries. Nuts and shredded coconut are popular add-ins, adding crunch and richness.
This dish is a reflection of Amish cooking values—wholesome, practical, and made with love. It’s ideal for busy mornings, as it can be made ahead and reheated throughout the week. Whether served warm with a drizzle of cream or cold with yogurt, Amish baked oatmeal is a comforting way to start the day.
Ingredient Overview
Here’s what you’ll need to make a classic Amish-style baked oatmeal:
Base Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 2 large eggs
- 1½ cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
Flavor Boosters
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Sweeteners
- ⅓ cup brown sugar or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
Fruit
- 1½ cups chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
Optional Add-Ins
- ½ cup raisins
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ¼ cup shredded coconut
Tip: Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a balanced flavor and firm texture. Avoid softer varieties like Red Delicious, which can turn mushy during baking. You can also swap apples for pears, bananas, or berries depending on the season or your preferences.
This ingredient list is flexible—feel free to adjust sweetness, spice, or add-ins to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make Amish-style baked oatmeal:
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or similar size with butter or nonstick spray.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, combine oats, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Stir in any dry add-ins like raisins, nuts, or coconut.
3. Whisk Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and sweetener (brown sugar or maple syrup).
4. Combine and Fold
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
- Fold in chopped apples gently to distribute evenly.
5. Bake
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
6. Rest and Serve
- Let the oatmeal rest for 10 minutes after baking. This helps it firm up and enhances the flavor.
- Serve warm with a splash of milk, a dollop of yogurt, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
You can also chill and slice it for grab-and-go breakfasts. It’s delicious cold or reheated, and pairs beautifully with coffee or tea.
Make-Ahead & Overnight Prep
Baked oatmeal is perfect for prepping ahead:
- Night Before: Assemble the mixture, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply bake as directed.
- Batch Cooking: Bake a double batch and store slices in the fridge or freezer.
- Freezing: Wrap individual portions and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
This make-ahead method is ideal for busy mornings, holiday brunches, or feeding a crowd. It’s a no-fuss way to enjoy a warm, nourishing breakfast without the morning rush.
Amish-Style Apple and Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe | Cozy Make-Ahead Breakfast with Warm Spices
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- 9x9-inch baking dish or ceramic dish
- Oven
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Parchment paper (optional)
Ingredients
Base:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 2 large eggs
- 1½ cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
Flavor:
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Sweetener:
- ⅓ cup brown sugar or maple syrup
Fruit:
- 1½ cups chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x9-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine oats, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and optional dry add-ins.
- Whisk Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, vanilla, and sweetener until smooth.
- Combine & Fold: Pour wet mixture into dry ingredients and stir to combine. Fold in chopped apples.
- Bake: Pour into prepared dish and bake for 35–40 minutes, until golden and set.
- Rest & Serve: Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with milk, yogurt, or maple drizzle.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for best texture and flavor.
- Avoid quick oats—they can make the dish mushy.
- For vegan version: use flax eggs and plant-based milk.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for 2 months.
- Reheat with a splash of milk to restore moisture.
- Great for overnight prep—assemble and refrigerate, then bake fresh in the morning.
