Making this breakfast bake is straightforward, and the results are well worth the effort. Follow these steps for a perfect bake every time:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking once your mixture is prepared.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×9-inch or similar-sized baking dish with cooking spray or a bit of melted butter.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir these ingredients together until they are evenly mixed.
4. Whisk the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, maple syrup or honey, egg, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil or butter until well combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir until everything is well incorporated.
6. Add Apples and Nuts: Gently fold in the diced apples, and if using, the chopped nuts and dried fruit. Ensure the apples and other additions are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
7. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the oatmeal mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
8. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oatmeal has set.
9. Cool Before Serving: Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.