Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake

Name: Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 2 cups almond milk; 2 ripe apples, diced; 1/4 cup chia seeds; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

We love starting our mornings with a warm and comforting breakfast, and this Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake fits the bill perfectly. Combining the flavors of sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and nutty chia seeds creates a hearty dish that's not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. The best part is how easy it is to prepare. I can whip this up the night before, pop it in the oven in the morning, and enjoy a wholesome meal that fuels my day.

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-18T03:40:21.072Z

When I first made this Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake, I was genuinely surprised at how satisfying it turned out. I experimented with various spices, but cinnamon and apples became my unmatched favorites, creating a nostalgia that reminds me of my childhood mornings. I always recommend using tart apples, as they bring out the sweetness of the dish beautifully.

One of my best tips is to let the mixture sit for a few minutes before baking. This helps the chia seeds absorb the liquid, creating a perfect bake that holds together well while still being soft and delicious. It's a simple trick that makes a huge difference!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Warm and cozy blend of cinnamon and apples
Chia seeds add a delightful texture and nutritional boost
Perfectly sweetened and ideal for breakfast or a snack

      

The Role of Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are not just a trendy superfood; they play a crucial role in this Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake. When soaked, chia seeds absorb liquid and swell, creating a pleasant gel-like texture that binds the dish together. This unique property not only helps achieve the desired consistency but also adds a hearty bite that complements the soft apples and chewy oats. For a boost in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, make sure to let the mixture sit for at least five minutes as instructed. This brief wait allows the chia seeds to do their magic.

If you’re looking to experiment, consider swapping chia seeds for ground flaxseed. While you won't achieve the same texture, ground flax can provide similar health benefits, including vegan omega-3s. Just remember that grinding flaxseeds will alter the overall flavor profile slightly, as they have a nuttier taste than chia seeds.

Choosing the Right Apples

The type of apple you choose significantly impacts the flavor and texture of your chia bake. Sweet varieties like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala will provide a delightful contrast to the warm spices. Alternatively, if you prefer a tart flavor, Granny Smith apples can add a refreshing twist. Just keep in mind that tart apples may require an extra drizzle of maple syrup to balance their acidity. When dicing the apples, aim for uniform chunks, about half an inch, to ensure even cooking throughout.

For added flavor, try sautéing the diced apples in a pan with a bit of cinnamon and maple syrup before mixing them into the oat mixture. This short step not only enhances their sweetness and flavor but can also provide a caramelized touch, making each bite a little more indulgent.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the beauties of the Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake is how easily it can be prepared in advance. You can mix all ingredients the night before, cover the bowl, and refrigerate it overnight. This not only allows the chia seeds to absorb the almond milk fully but also intensifies the flavor as they 'marinate' together. In the morning, simply pour the mixture into your baking dish and bake as directed for a warm breakfast with minimal morning effort.

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! This recipe stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 30-45 seconds for a quick warm-up. Consider topping reheated portions with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of nuts for added texture.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake:

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats
2 cups almond milk
2 ripe apples, diced
1/4 cup chia seeds
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Make sure to have everything measured out before you start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond milk, diced apples, chia seeds, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed.

Let Sit

Allow the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes to let the chia seeds absorb some of the liquid.

Bake It

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, perhaps with a drizzle of maple syrup on top!

This bake keeps well in the refrigerator, making it a great option for meal prep!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add nuts or raisins for extra texture and flavor. You can also adjust the sweetness according to your taste by varying the amount of maple syrup.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake warm enhances its comforting nature, but you can also enjoy it at room temperature. For breakfast, serve it straight from the oven topped with a splash of almond milk or a dollop of Greek yogurt to add creaminess. If you’re hosting a brunch, consider presenting it in a large dish with a side of fresh fruit for a colorful and nutritious spread.

For a delightful afternoon snack, add a sprinkle of granola or toasted nuts on top before enjoying. This added crunch can contrast wonderfully with the soft layers of baked oats and apples, creating a pleasing textural variety.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to customize the flavor profile of your Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake. If you're a fan of nuts, stirring in chopped walnuts or pecans not only enhances the flavor but also adds healthy fats and protein. You might also consider incorporating dried fruits like raisins or cranberries as they could provide bursts of sweetness throughout the dish.

For a spicier flavor, adding a pinch of ground cloves or ginger can elevate the warmth of the cinnamon. Just a small amount can dramatically change the dish’s character, allowing you to create variations that suit your palate.

Troubleshooting

If your bake appears too dry after cooking, it may be due to the type of oats used. Instant oats absorb more liquid than rolled oats, so stick to rolled oats for this recipe and measure your almond milk carefully. If you find it too dry during baking, adding a splash more almond milk while mixing can remedy the situation and ensure a moist texture.

On the flip side, if it's too wet even after the recommended baking time, you might need to extend the bake by an additional 5 to 10 minutes. Keeping an eye on it towards the end will help you achieve that perfect golden-brown top, indicating it’s ready to serve.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of milk?

Absolutely! Any non-dairy or dairy milk will work just fine.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake is completely vegan as it contains no animal products.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mixture the night before, refrigerate it, and then bake it in the morning.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it will last for about 3-4 days.