Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Breakfast Bake
Highlighted under: Creative Baking Inspiration
I absolutely love starting my day with a warm and satisfying breakfast, and this Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Breakfast Bake has become a favorite in my household. The combination of creamy yogurt, sweet apples, and a hint of cinnamon creates a delightful morning treat that feels indulgent yet healthy. It's a fantastic way to use up any extra apples I have on hand, and I can whip it up quickly, making breakfast both easy and delicious. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you!
When I first made this Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Breakfast Bake, I was amazed at how easily it came together and how satisfying it was. The apples soften perfectly during baking, releasing their natural sweetness, which pairs beautifully with the creamy yogurt. I often experiment with different spices, but cinnamon remains my favorite for that cozy autumnal vibe!
One tip I’ve learned is to let the bake sit for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven—it helps everything set up nicely and makes serving easier. This hearty dish not only fuels my morning but can also be enjoyed as a snack or dessert, making it truly versatile!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and apple
- High in protein from Greek yogurt
- Perfect for meal prep and makes for easy breakfasts throughout the week
The Role of Yogurt in the Bake
Using Greek yogurt in this recipe not only adds a creamy texture but also boosts the protein content significantly. This makes the breakfast bake not just filling but also a great option for staying energized throughout the morning. The tanginess of the yogurt balances the sweetness of the apples and honey, creating a well-rounded flavor profile.
If you're looking for a dairy-free alternative, coconut yogurt can work as a substitute, though it will introduce a subtle coconut flavor. Just make sure the non-dairy yogurt is thick enough to maintain the structure of the bake, otherwise, it might turn out too runny.
Tips for Choosing Apples
When selecting apples for this bake, aim for varieties that hold their shape well during baking, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. This ensures that the apples remain slightly firm rather than turning mushy, providing a pleasant texture contrast with the creamy yogurt base.
You can also experiment with a mix of different apple varieties to enhance both flavor and texture. For instance, combining sweet and tart apples can contribute depth to the overall taste. Remember to chop the apples into even pieces, about half an inch, so they cook evenly throughout the bake.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
This breakfast bake is ideal for meal prepping. Once cooled, you can cut it into squares and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through, making it easy to grab and go on busy mornings.
Serving the bake warm is delightful, but you can also enjoy it at room temperature. For an extra indulgent touch, try topping it with a dollop of additional yogurt, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkling of cinnamon before serving.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 cups Greek yogurt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chopped apples (about 2 medium-sized)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8 inch baking dish.
Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, eggs, vanilla extract, and honey until smooth.
Add Dry Ingredients
Stir in the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined.
Fold in Apples
Gently fold in the chopped apples and walnuts, if using.
Bake
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cool and Serve
Allow the bake to cool for 5-10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to customize this bake by adding in other fruits like berries or using different nuts. You can also replace honey with maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you're looking to reduce sugar, you can cut back on honey or replace it with a sugar substitute like maple syrup or agave nectar. Adjust to taste, as different sweeteners offer varying levels of sweetness. Additionally, if nuts are not your preference or if allergies are a concern, feel free to leave out the walnuts altogether or substitute them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for added crunch.
For a gluten-free version, simply replace rolled oats with gluten-free oats. This will ensure that the bake remains safe for those with gluten sensitivities while still retaining the chewy texture that oats provide. Just double-check that any labels on your ingredients confirm they are gluten-free.
Handling Common Issues
One common issue with breakfast bakes is undercooking, which can lead to a soggy texture. To avoid this, make sure to bake it until the top is golden brown and the edges pull away slightly from the sides of the dish. If the center still seems jiggly, give it a few extra minutes in the oven.
Another potential problem is the bake overflowing. To prevent this, ensure that the ingredients do not exceed the capacity of your baking dish, and consider using a larger dish if you're doubling or tripling the recipe. If you happen to have a leak in your oven, placing a baking sheet underneath can catch any spills.
Flavor Variations
For a fun twist, you can add dried fruit such as raisins or cranberries, which pair wonderfully with the cinnamon and apples. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a splash of maple extract or almond extract to the mix for an additional layer of flavor that compliments the other ingredients superbly.
You could also consider adding additional spices like nutmeg or ginger, which can elevate the flavor profile of the bake. Just be cautious with the amounts to maintain balance, as cinnamon should still be the star of the show in this recipe.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use non-dairy yogurt for this recipe?
Yes! Non-dairy yogurt works well as a substitute; just choose one that is thick and creamy for the best texture.
→ How long does this bake last in the fridge?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
→ Can I freeze the Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Breakfast Bake?
Absolutely! You can freeze individual portions wrapped in plastic wrap or in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
→ What other toppings can I add?
You can top it with additional nuts, a drizzle of honey, or even a dollop of yogurt before serving.
Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Breakfast Bake
I absolutely love starting my day with a warm and satisfying breakfast, and this Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Breakfast Bake has become a favorite in my household. The combination of creamy yogurt, sweet apples, and a hint of cinnamon creates a delightful morning treat that feels indulgent yet healthy. It's a fantastic way to use up any extra apples I have on hand, and I can whip it up quickly, making breakfast both easy and delicious. I can’t wait to share this recipe with you!
Created by: Bryony Wells
Recipe Type: Creative Baking Inspiration
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups Greek yogurt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chopped apples (about 2 medium-sized)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8 inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, eggs, vanilla extract, and honey until smooth.
Stir in the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined.
Gently fold in the chopped apples and walnuts, if using.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Allow the bake to cool for 5-10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to customize this bake by adding in other fruits like berries or using different nuts. You can also replace honey with maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 95mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 31g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 8g