Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake

Name: Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1/2 cup chia seeds; 3 cups unsweetened almond milk; 2 cups diced apples (honeycrisp recommended); 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making this Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake, especially when the weather turns crisp in autumn. The combination of warm cinnamon and sweet apples creates a comforting dish that fills my home with delightful aromas. Not only is it a hearty breakfast, but it’s also a nutritious snack that keeps me fueled throughout the day. Using chia seeds adds a unique texture and boost of omega-3 fatty acids, making it a guilt-free indulgence. I can't wait for you to try it and experience this cozy treat!

Created by

Jocelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-18T03:55:13.806Z

When I first made this Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake, I was surprised at how delicious and satisfying it turned out. I chose honeycrisp apples for their sweetness and texture, which paired perfectly with the creamy chia mixture. In my first attempt, I overcooked it, but cooking it just until the apples are tender creates the ideal balance. I’ve also experimented with various spices, but I keep coming back to classic cinnamon for its warm flavor that resonates with everyone.

One of my favorite tips is to let the chia mixture sit for a few minutes before baking; this allows the seeds to absorb all the flavors. I also love serving it with a dollop of yogurt on top or a drizzle of maple syrup for extra sweetness. Whether for breakfast or dessert, this bake never fails to impress!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and apple
Nutritious chia seeds packed with omega-3s
Versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast or dessert

      

Perfecting Your Bake

When preparing your Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake, ensuring the right bakeware can greatly influence the outcome. I recommend using a medium-sized ceramic or glass baking dish, as these materials distribute heat evenly, promoting uniform cooking. A 9x9 inch dish works perfectly, but feel free to adjust based on your batch size. If you find your bake cooking too quickly, consider covering it with aluminum foil for the last few minutes to retain moisture and prevent over-browning.

Monitoring the consistency of your mixture before baking is also vital. The chia seeds will absorb liquid as they cook, thickening the bake. A well-mixed batter should have a pourable consistency but shouldn’t be too watery. If it appears too thick, add a splash more almond milk; if it’s too runny, sprinkle a few more oats to achieve balance. This will ensure that you achieve that lovely, hearty texture.

Ingredient Insights

Choosing the right type of apple for this recipe is key to achieving that delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors. Honeycrisp apples are excellent because they hold their shape well while baking, resulting in soft yet distinct chunks. If you can't find Honeycrisp, feel free to substitute with Fuji or Granny Smith apples; just be mindful that they can vary in sweetness, so you may want to adjust the maple syrup accordingly.

The chia seeds in this bake not only provide a unique texture but also serve as a binding agent, helping to hold everything together. They expand when mixed with liquid, which is why it's important to allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes before baking. This will create a nice gelatinous texture that complements the softness of the baked apples, giving your dish an inviting mouthfeel that makes it feel indulgent yet healthy.

Ingredients

For the Bake

2 cups rolled oats
1/2 cup chia seeds
3 cups unsweetened almond milk
2 cups diced apples (honeycrisp recommended)
1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

Combine dry ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the rolled oats, chia seeds, cinnamon, and salt until combined.

Add wet ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir well.

Incorporate apples

Fold in the diced apples until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Bake the mixture

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until the apples are tender and the top is golden brown.

Cool and serve

Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, optionally topped with yogurt or maple syrup.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sprinkling some chopped nuts on top before baking or adding dried fruits like raisins or cranberries into the mixture.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake is an excellent candidate for meal prepping. You can mix the dry and wet ingredients separately a day in advance and store them covered in the fridge. Just before you're ready to bake, combine them, fold in the apples, and pop it in the oven. This makes for an easy, hassle-free breakfast or snack option that can be enjoyed throughout the week.

If you have leftovers, they store well in the refrigerator for up to five days. Simply slice the bake into portions and store in airtight containers. Reheating is straightforward; pop a slice in the microwave for 30 seconds to a minute, and it’s as good as fresh out of the oven. You can also warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the experience of enjoying your Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake, consider serving it warm with a dollop of yogurt or a splash of almond milk. A drizzle of maple syrup on top adds an extra touch of sweetness that beautifully complements the baked apples. For a bit of crunch, sprinkle some toasted nuts or granola before serving, which adds texture and additional nutrients.

This dish can seamlessly transition from breakfast to dessert. If you're opting for a sweeter touch, consider serving the bake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar right before serving. It’s a fantastic way to indulge without compromising on health, as you’re still benefiting from the wholesome ingredients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of milk?

Yes, you can substitute almond milk with any plant-based milk such as oat milk, coconut milk, or even cow's milk.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave before serving.

→ Can I prepare this bake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture the night before, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it fresh in the morning.

→ What other fruits can I add?

You can experiment with pears, berries, or even bananas for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the sweetness accordingly.