Caramelized Maple Apple Oatmeal Bake

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking dish.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Step 3: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Step 4: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until thoroughly mixed.
5. Step 5: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the apple slices and cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle the brown sugar over the apples and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has melted and the apples are caramelized, about 3 more minutes.
7. Step 7: Spread half of the caramelized apples on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
8. Step 8: Pour the oatmeal mixture over the apples, then top with the remaining caramelized apples and sprinkle with walnuts if using.
9. Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are golden and the center is set.
10. Step 10: Allow the oatmeal bake to cool for a few minutes before serving warm.