Get your meal prep on this week with these delicious baked apple oatmeal cups, brightened with a homemade chai spice blend. These sturdy, chewy cups bake up quickly and keep well—enjoy them warm right away or cool them for breakfasts and snacks throughout the week.
Best Fall Baked Oatmeal!
If you love oatmeal and apples, you’ll adore these healthy baked apple oatmeal cups. They capture everything you want in a fall breakfast: cozy spices, tender apple pieces, and a naturally sweet, wholesome base. These cups are:
- seasonal and warming
- chewy with a tender crumb
- infused with chai-style spices
- filling enough for breakfast or a snack
- perfect for batch baking and meal prep
They aren’t just for mornings—these cups make a satisfying snack, afternoon pick-me-up, or even a simple dessert when paired with a spoonful of nut butter or yogurt.
Here’s what you need
This recipe is short on ingredients but big on flavor. Most components are pantry staples, and apples are available year-round, so you don’t have to wait for autumn to enjoy them.
- Rolled oats: use rolled oats for best texture; quick oats can be used if needed.
- Homemade chai spice: a simple mix of warming spices gives these cups their signature flavor.
- Apple: any variety works—green or red—peeled and finely diced for even distribution.
- Eggs: two large eggs bind the mixture; for egg-free options, see the variations section below.
- Maple syrup: provides natural sweetness and a subtle fall flavor; you can substitute another liquid sweetener if preferred.
- Coconut oil: melted before measuring to ensure accuracy and added tenderness.
- Banana: mashed banana adds natural sweetness and moisture; applesauce can substitute, though you may want a touch more syrup.
- Milk: any milk or plant-based milk works to loosen the batter.
Homemade Chai Spice
For the spice blend, combine warm, aromatic ground spices. If you already have a chai mix, use about 2½ teaspoons. Otherwise mix:
- ground nutmeg
- ground cardamom
- ground allspice
- ground cinnamon
This small blend adds depth without overpowering the apple and oat flavors.
Storage
These baked apple oatmeal cups are ideal for meal prep because they’re made with whole grains and fruit and are relatively low in fat. They store and freeze well, making them convenient for busy mornings.
Weekly meal prep: Allow the cups to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container or a sealed plastic bag and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Freeze for later: Cool completely, place the cups on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 2 hours). Then move them into a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
More Baked Oatmeal Ideas
- Strawberry Rhubarb Oatmeal Bake
- Banana Berry Baked Oatmeal
- Lemon Blueberry Vegan Baked Oatmeal
Baked Apple Oatmeal Cups
Get your meal prep on this week with these delicious baked apple oatmeal cups made with a homemade chai spice. Eat them immediately or save them for later.
Author: Lee Funke
Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Total: 30 mins | Servings: 12
Ingredients
Dry
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 large apple, peeled and minced
Wet
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil
- 1 medium banana, mashed
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or any milk)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-count muffin tin with liners and lightly spray or grease the liners.
- In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, and the spice blend.
- Peel and finely dice the apple and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, mash the banana. Add the eggs, maple syrup, and almond milk, stirring to combine. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until mostly combined.
- Add the melted coconut oil and diced apple, stirring gently to distribute evenly.
- Fill each muffin liner to the top—about two heaping tablespoons per cup. Smooth the tops if needed.
- Bake at 350°F for 19–21 minutes, until the tops are set and slightly golden.
- Let the cups cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove them to a wire rack to cool completely before storing.
- Serve topped with your favorite nut butter, yogurt, or a drizzle of extra maple syrup.
Nutrition
Approximate per serving:
- Calories: 127 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 4 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 5 g
Nutrition information is an estimate and should be used as a guideline.
Tips & Variations
- For a vegan version, replace eggs with flax or chia egg and use applesauce instead of mashed banana; expect a slightly different texture and you may need a touch more sweetener.
- Swap spices to taste—add a pinch of ginger or cloves for more warmth.
- Mix in a handful of chopped nuts or raisins for extra texture.
- To reheat, microwave for 30–45 seconds or warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.