Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake

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

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore making this Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake, especially when the aroma of cinnamon fills my kitchen. Combining juicy apples with the nutty richness of chia seeds creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert. It’s deliciously warm and satisfying, and I love that it’s also packed with nutrients. The best part? It’s effortless to prepare! Each bite is a delightful experience that guarantees a smile, making it a fantastic addition to my recipe collection.

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-01-18T03:34:09.210Z

When I first created this Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake, I wanted to explore a wholesome breakfast option that my family would love. The blend of flavors and textures—from the juicy apples to the chewy chia seeds—came together so beautifully. What surprised me was how well the chia seeds soaked up the apple juice, creating a deliciously creamy consistency without any dairy.

As I experimented with the spices, I discovered that a touch of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile immensely. Trust me, a hint of vanilla elevates this dish to another level! I also found that letting it cool slightly before slicing makes it much easier to serve.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and apple
Nutritious and packed with omega-3 fatty acids from chia
Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients

      

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake plays a vital role in creating its delicious flavor and texture. The apples not only provide natural sweetness but also moisture, contributing to the overall softness of the bake. I recommend using a mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, to create a balanced flavor profile that complements the warmth of cinnamon perfectly.

Chia seeds are crucial in this recipe—they absorb liquid and swell, creating a pudding-like consistency that binds the ingredients together. This provides a delightful chewiness and boosts nutrition with omega-3 fatty acids. If you're looking for a chia seed substitute, ground flaxseed can work in a pinch, although the texture will differ slightly.

Baking Techniques for Perfect Results

To achieve the best texture, it’s important to ensure your apples are diced evenly. This allows them to cook uniformly, ensuring each bite is consistent. If your apples are cut too large, they may not soften adequately, leading to a chewy texture that contrasts with the bake’s other components. Aim for pieces about half an inch in size for the perfect balance.

I suggest checking the bake about five minutes before the suggested time. You want the top to be lightly golden, and the edges to start pulling away from the sides of the dish, indicating that it’s ready. If you find the top browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil to prevent overly darkened edges.

Ingredients

For the Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake

2 cups apples, peeled and diced
1 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice)
1/2 cup chia seeds
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the diced apples, almond milk, chia seeds, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.

Pour and Bake

Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the top is lightly golden.

Cool and Serve

Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, top the bake with chopped nuts or granola before serving. You can also add raisins or cranberries for a fruity twist.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you make it ahead of time, it makes for a convenient breakfast option. Just reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds or until warm, depending on your microwave's power.

For longer storage, consider freezing it! You can freeze leftovers in portions, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag, for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned to keep it taste fresh and delicious.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this bake warm with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup can elevate the sweetness to your desired level. A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a healthy protein boost, making it an even more satisfying breakfast option. For extra crunch, sprinkle some chopped nuts or granola on top just before serving.

If you’re looking to switch things up, consider adding in other fruits such as berries or bananas, or even a handful of raisins for added sweetness. Each variation brings a new twist while still retaining that cozy essence of cinnamon and apple that makes this dish a favorite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits besides apples?

Absolutely! Pears or peaches work wonderfully in this recipe.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Cinnamon Apple Chia Bake is naturally gluten-free.

→ How do I store the leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Just use maple syrup instead of honey, and it's entirely vegan.