A sweet, wholesome treat that completes your holiday dinner table.
These warm apple & cinnamon oat cups are the perfect cozy addition to your holiday table. Sweet, spiced, and easy to make, they’re a hit with kids and adults alike.
Whether you’re hosting a Christmas dinner or a Thanksgiving feast, these oat cups add a comforting touch. Baked to golden perfection, they’re filled with cinnamon-spiced apple chunks and a drizzle of maple syrup.
The rustic wooden tray presentation makes them feel extra special, while the warm spices evoke memories of cozy evenings by the fire.
Best of all, they’re kid-friendly and require minimal effort—just mix, bake, and serve!
Why This Recipe Works
Kid-Friendly
The soft texture and sweet cinnamon flavor make these oat cups perfect for children.
Easy to Make
No special equipment needed—just mix, pour, and bake.
Make-Ahead
Bake ahead and reheat for last-minute serving.
Versatile
Pair with turkey, ham, or serve as a dessert.
Warm Apple & Cinnamon Oat Cups
A cozy holiday side dish that’s sweet, spiced, and perfect for kids.
🛒 Ingredients
- - 1 cup rolled oats
- - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- - 1/3 cup brown sugar
- - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- - 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- - 1/2 tsp baking powder
- - 1/4 tsp salt
- - 1/2 cup milk
- - 1 cup apple chunks (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- - 2 tbsp maple syrup, for drizzling
- - Cinnamon dusting, for garnish
👨🍳 Instructions
Prep Cups: Line 12 mini muffin cups with paper liners.
💡 Use parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
💡 Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in melted butter, milk, and 1 tbsp maple syrup until combined.
💡 For a richer flavor, use buttermilk.
Fill Cups: Divide batter among prepared cups. Top with apple chunks.
💡 Use pre-sliced apples for convenience.
Bake: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, until golden.
💡 Rotate the tray halfway for even browning.
Finish & Serve: Drizzle with remaining maple syrup and dust with cinnamon.
💡 Serve warm for best flavor.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Rolled Oats
Provide a chewy texture. Substitute with quick oats for a softer result.
Substitutions: Oat flour or gluten-free oats for dietary needs.
Butter
Adds richness. Use coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
Substitutions: Vegan butter or olive oil.
Apples
Granny Smith holds up well; Honeycrisp adds sweetness. Substitute with pears or peaches.
Substitutions: Pre-cooked apple filling for convenience.
Maple Syrup
Adds natural sweetness. Substitute with honey or agave syrup.
Substitutions: Brown sugar glaze for a different flavor.
Pro Tips for Perfect Oat Cups
Even Baking
Tap the tray gently after filling to remove air bubbles for even rising.
Flavor Boost
Sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom over the batter for extra warmth.
Make-Ahead Tip
Prepare the batter the night before and refrigerate until morning.
Serving Hack
Serve with a small spoon for easy portioning, especially for kids.
Variations & Customizations
Gluten-Free Option
Use gluten-free flour and oats to make these cups safe for gluten-sensitive guests.
Vegan Version
Substitute butter with coconut oil and use plant-based milk for a vegan-friendly recipe.
Caramel Drizzle
Replace maple syrup with a light caramel sauce for a different flavor twist.
Nutty Addition
Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Roasted Turkey: The sweet-spiced oat cups balance the savory turkey perfectly.
- Ham Glazed with Brown Sugar: A classic holiday pairing with a cozy twist.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve as a warm dessert with a scoop of creamy vanilla.
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with spiced cider or a glass of Chardonnay for a festive touch.
Make-Ahead Instructions & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Refrigerator Storage
Store cooled oat cups in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer Storage
Freeze unbaked cups for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the time.
Reheating Instructions
Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: Why are my oat cups dry?
A: Overbaking can dry them out. Check for a golden color, not excessive browning.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, but use a larger mixing bowl and fill cups evenly to avoid overflow.
Q: How to prevent sticking?
A: Use paper liners or grease the muffin cups thoroughly with butter or oil.
Q: Can I use frozen apples?
A: Thaw and drain excess liquid first to prevent sogginess.
Final Thoughts
These warm apple & cinnamon oat cups are more than just a dessert—they’re a cozy, comforting addition to any holiday table. Whether you serve them as a side or a sweet finale, they’re sure to delight both kids and adults.
With their simple preparation and festive presentation, they’re the perfect recipe to complete your Christmas or Thanksgiving spread. Don’t forget to pair them with roasted turkey or ham for a truly memorable meal!
