Cinnamon Apple Breakfast Bake

Name: Cinnamon Apple Breakfast Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups diced apples (about 4 medium apples); 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 3 cups bread cubes (stale or toasted work well); 2 cups milk; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup raisins (optional)

Highlighted under: Dessert Magic

I love starting my day with something warm and comforting, and this Cinnamon Apple Breakfast Bake has become one of my go-to recipes. The combination of sweet apples and aromatic cinnamon creates a delightful morning treat that fills the house with an irresistible scent. Baking this dish is a mindless pleasure; it requires minimal prep and allows me to enjoy a peaceful morning as it cooks. Whether served for a special occasion or just a regular Tuesday, it’s a hearty way to kick off the day.

Created by

Harriet Mason

Last updated on 2026-01-18T03:58:11.149Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how effortlessly the flavors came together.

The apples become wonderfully tender while the cinnamon and a hint of vanilla permeate the entire dish. A little tip I discovered is letting the apple slices marinate in sugar and lemon juice for a few minutes before baking. It enhances their natural sweetness and adds a lovely tartness that balances beautifully!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Warm, comforting flavors perfect for chilly mornings
Easy to prepare with minimal clean-up
Great for serving a crowd or meal prep for the week

Perfecting the Apple Preparation

Choosing the right apples is crucial for a successful Cinnamon Apple Breakfast Bake. Varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp offer a wonderful balance of tartness and sweetness, which complements the dish beautifully. Once diced, letting the apples sit with sugar, lemon juice, and spices for about 10 minutes not only enhances their flavor but also allows them to release some of their natural juices, creating a more flavorful base for the bake.

When preparing the apples, be mindful of their size. Dicing them into uniform pieces (about 1/2 inch) ensures even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the bake. If you're short on time, pre-chopped apples can be a great shortcut, but I recommend looking for fresh apples for the best taste.

Baking and Serving Tips

Getting the right bake can be a delicate balance of time and temperature. Baking at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes should achieve a golden, slightly crispy top while keeping the interior moist and fluffy. Keep an eye on the edges; they should be a light golden brown, indicating the sugars are caramelizing. If the top begins to brown too much before the center is set, lightly cover it with foil to prevent burning.

Letting the bake cool for a few minutes before slicing is essential. This resting period helps the mixture set, making it much easier to cut into neat squares. For a delightful finish, consider serving each slice warm with a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of powdered sugar, adding a touch of sweetness that enhances the comforting flavors.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delightful breakfast treat:

Ingredients

4 cups diced apples (about 4 medium apples)
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
3 cups bread cubes (stale or toasted work well)
2 cups milk
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup raisins (optional)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Cinnamon Apple Breakfast Bake:

Prepare the Apples

In a large bowl, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well and let sit for about 10 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add the bread cubes to the apple mixture, then pour the milk mixture over everything. Toss gently to combine.

Bake

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. If using, sprinkle raisins on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

Serve

Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of powdered sugar, if desired.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top before serving. This breakfast bake can also be prepared the night before
simply assemble it and refrigerate overnight, then bake in the morning!

Ingredient Variations

If you're looking to adjust the flavor profile, substituting half of the diced apples with pears can create a lovely twist on this traditional bake. Pears add a different level of sweetness and a unique texture that pairs beautifully with cinnamon. Alternatively, you could incorporate dried cranberries or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor, enhancing every bite.

For a dairy-free option, swap out the milk with almond or oat milk. Just ensure that the alternative milk has enough creaminess to replicate the texture; some brands are thinner and may require adjusting the other ingredients slightly for the best results.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble everything the night before, cover it tightly in the fridge, and simply pop it in the oven in the morning. This makes weekday breakfasts hassle-free and ensures you'll have a warm, hearty meal ready in just under an hour.

To store leftovers, let the Cinnamon Apple Breakfast Bake cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Kept in the fridge, it will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers. Just reheat in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen apples?

Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain them well before using.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave.

→ Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free bread for the bake.

→ Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

You can substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk for a vegan option.