Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake

Name: Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup chia seeds; 4 cups almond milk (or any milk of your choice); 2 medium apples, diced; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love waking up to the warm aroma of cinnamon and baked apples filling my kitchen. This Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake has quickly become a favorite breakfast option for my family. It’s not just delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it the perfect way to start the day. The comforting flavors and textures make it feel indulgent, yet it's incredibly healthy. Plus, it's easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time for those busy mornings when we just want to grab something wholesome and satisfying on the go.

Created by

Keira Dalton

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:10:23.341Z

When I first tried making this Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake, I wanted to create a breakfast that was both comforting and nourishing. I experimented with various ratios of chia seeds to milk until I found the perfect texture that was creamy yet hearty, perfect for early mornings. The addition of apples brings a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon spice.

One tip I learned along the way is to let the mixture sit for a bit before baking. This allows the chia seeds to absorb the liquid fully, resulting in a bake that’s not only fluffy but also holds together nicely. It’s a delightful dish that my family always looks forward to enjoying!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Warm flavors of cinnamon perfectly complement tender apples
Healthy, nutrient-rich ingredients make it a guilt-free treat
Serves as a wholesome breakfast or snack option for busy days

      

Understanding Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are a fantastic ingredient in this Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake, as they not only add texture but also serve as a source of dietary fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. When mixed with liquid, chia seeds swell and develop a gel-like consistency, which helps to bind the ingredients together. This unique property contributes to the overall heartiness of the bake, making it filling and nutritious. Make sure to stir them well into the mixture for even hydration.

If you're looking to incorporate extra nutrients, consider adding ground flaxseeds or hemp seeds to enhance the health benefits further. Both will blend seamlessly without altering the flavor. However, remember that adjusting these amounts slightly may change the texture; too many additional seeds can make the mixture overly dense.

Apple Choices and Their Impact

The type of apples you choose significantly affects the sweetness and texture of your bake. I recommend using a mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Fuji. This combination provides a nice balance of flavor and ensures a pleasing contrast to the warm cinnamon. If you prefer a softer texture, opt for sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Gala; they break down more easily during baking.

For a more pronounced apple flavor, consider slicing the apples thinly and lightly sautéing them in a pan with a dash of cinnamon before adding them to the chia mixture. This pre-cooking step not only enhances the apple’s flavor but also ensures that they are tender and juicy after baking.

Ingredients

For the Bake

1 cup chia seeds
4 cups almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
2 medium apples, diced
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Mix all the ingredients together thoroughly before baking.

Instructions

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the chia seeds, almond milk, diced apples, ground cinnamon, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.

Let it Rest

Allow the mixture to sit for about 15 minutes. This will help the chia seeds absorb the liquid and thicken the mixture.

Preheat the Oven

While the mixture is resting, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Transfer to Baking Dish

After resting, pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Bake

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 minutes or until the top is slightly golden and the center is set.

Cool and Serve

Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing, and enjoy warm. It’s great on its own or topped with more fresh fruit!

Serve this delightful bake warm for breakfast or as a nutritious snack!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the recipe by adding nuts or other fruits like berries for added texture and flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

The beauty of this Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake lies in its flexibility for meal prep. You can prepare the mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover the baking dish tightly. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply pop it into the oven straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through evenly.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions. Slice the bake into squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave for a quick option.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This bake is delicious on its own, but for a delightful twist, try serving it with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of almond butter for added creaminess. Fresh berries or a sprinkle of nuts can enhance the texture and flavor further. If you’re aiming for a breakfast that feels more indulgent, warm a bit of maple syrup to drizzle on top right before serving—it elevates the entire dish.

Feel free to experiment with additional spices too. A pinch of nutmeg or ginger can add warmth and complexity to the bake. If you're in the mood for a sweeter version, consider folding in some dark chocolate chips or coconut flakes before baking to introduce contrasting flavors that pair beautifully with the cinnamon and apple.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Absolutely! Pears, berries, or even bananas can be used as substitutes.

→ How long will leftovers keep in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

→ Can I prepare this bake ahead of time?

Yes! You can mix the ingredients the night before, refrigerate them, and then bake it in the morning.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! All the ingredients listed are gluten-free, making it a perfect option for those with gluten sensitivities.