There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about a warm plate of Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a chilly morning craving for something indulgent yet wholesome. The comforting aroma as it bakes fills the kitchen—and your heart—with warmth and memories of cozy family breakfasts. This recipe is perfect for busy mornings, laid-back weekends, or even potlucks where you want to impress without a ton of fuss. Imagine digging into a soft, warm dish with hints of cinnamon sweetness and perhaps a drizzle of icing on top. It’s a delightful treat that brings smiles to every table.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal is not just your average breakfast; it’s a multi-dimensional experience packed with flavor and nutrition. This dish is quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and appealing to all ages, making it an ideal choice for family brunches or meal prepping for the busy week ahead. Plus, it’s easily customizable! Whether you’re looking for a cozy breakfast that warms your soul or a wholesome snack to keep you going, this recipe checks all the boxes.
“I made this for my kids last weekend, and they devoured it! It’s like having dessert for breakfast, but healthier!" – a genuine home-cook review.
The Cooking Process Explained
Making Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal is straightforward and enjoyable. First, you’ll gather your ingredients and prep the dry and wet components separately. This set-up helps ensure your oatmeal has the perfect texture. Combine them, transfer the mixture to a greased dish, sprinkle on some brown sugar (and nuts, if you’re feeling fancy), and bake until golden and bubbly. A sprinkle of icing or dollop of yogurt at the end elevates it to brunch-worthy status.
What You’ll Need
To create this delicious baked oatmeal, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Consider using almond or oat milk for a non-dairy option, and feel free to swap out the maple syrup for honey if you prefer a different sweetener.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk the milk, maple syrup, applesauce, and vanilla extract until completely smooth.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix!
- Transfer everything into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar with optional chopped nuts. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow it to cool slightly. For that extra treat, drizzle with icing or your favorite yogurt before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with a few creative ideas. Consider serving it warm with a drizzle of cream cheese frosting or a scoop of Greek yogurt on the side. Fresh fruit, like sliced bananas or berries, adds a refreshing touch. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or a chilled glass of almond milk for a balanced breakfast that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
Storing leftovers is a breeze with this recipe! You can keep any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave for a quick 30-60 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through. For those who enjoy it fresh from the oven, consider baking in smaller portions so each serving stays delightful and warm.
Helpful Cooking Tips
To make the most of your Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal, here are a few pro tips:
- Make sure to measure the oats correctly for the right texture—too much can lead to a dry final product.
- If you’re gluten-free, swap out the rolled oats for certified gluten-free oats.
- Consider adding raisins or cranberries for an added burst of flavor.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving—this helps it firm up nicely.
Recipe Variations
There are countless ways to enjoy this baked oatmeal. Experiment with different flavor profiles! For a pumpkin twist, incorporate canned pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice. If you love chocolate, add a handful of chocolate chips to the mixture before baking. For a tropical flavor, substitute coconut milk and sprinkle shredded coconut on top. The possibilities are truly endless!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to prepare Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal?
Preparation usually takes about 15 minutes, with an additional 25-30 minutes for baking.
Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture the night before and bake it in the morning for a delightful breakfast treat.
What if I don’t have maple syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup on hand, honey or agave syrup works well as substitutes; just adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference.
Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal
A delightful and wholesome baked oatmeal that combines the flavors of cinnamon rolls, perfect for breakfast or brunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk the milk, maple syrup, applesauce, and vanilla extract until completely smooth.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix!
- Transfer everything into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar with optional chopped nuts. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow it to cool slightly. For that extra treat, drizzle with icing or your favorite yogurt before serving.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 10mg