If you’re craving a breakfast that feels like a warm, comforting hug yet fuels you with wholesome goodness, you’re going to love this Healthy Sticky Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe. It’s that perfect balance of gooey cinnamon sweetness, hearty oats, and a touch of healthy ingredients that come together in a baked dish you’ll want to dive into every morning. This recipe transforms simple pantry staples into an irresistible breakfast treat that tastes indulgent but stays nourishing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role, from adding moisture to enhancing the warm cinnamon flavor you adore. These simple components come together to build the perfect texture and keep every bite rich yet balanced.
- Old-fashioned oats: The base of the dish, providing fiber and a chewy texture that soaks up all the flavors beautifully.
- Baking powder: Helps the baked oatmeal rise slightly, keeping it light and fluffy.
- Ground cinnamon: Brings that signature cozy spice that makes this dish irresistible.
- Salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the overall flavors perfectly.
- Unsweetened almond milk: Keeps things plant-based and adds creamy moisture without extra calories.
- Maple syrup: All-natural sweetness that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
- Large egg: Binds the ingredients together so each slice holds its shape beautifully.
- Coconut oil: Adds healthy fat and a subtle richness that mimics the buttery goodness of cinnamon rolls.
- Vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor, giving the oatmeal that bakery-style warmth.
- Raisins (optional): Add natural bursts of sweetness and texture.
- Chopped nuts (optional): Introduce a delightful crunch and healthy fats.
- Coconut sugar: For the sticky cinnamon swirl, uses a less refined sweetener that caramelizes beautifully.
- Additional ground cinnamon: Sprinkled into the swirl for an extra punch of spice.
- Melted coconut oil (for the swirl): Helps the cinnamon sugar mixture create a rich, sticky glaze.
How to Make Healthy Sticky Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), which creates the perfect environment for baking until golden and set but still moist inside. Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with coconut oil to ensure your oatmeal won’t stick and will have a beautiful crisp edge.
Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. This step is critical because evenly distributing the cinnamon and baking powder throughout sets the foundation for flavor and texture that’s consistent in every bite.
Step 3: Whisk Together Wet Ingredients
Grab another bowl and combine the unsweetened almond milk, maple syrup, beaten egg, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil. Whisk these together until they’re fully blended. This mixture brings moisture and sweetness, ensuring your baked oatmeal stays tender and flavorful.
Step 4: Combine and Add Optional Mix-Ins
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry, stirring gently until just combined. If you want bursts of natural sweetness and some crunch, fold in those raisins and chopped nuts now. This creates delightful contrasts in every spoonful.
Step 5: Pour into the Prepared Dish
Transfer the oatmeal mixture evenly into your greased baking dish, smoothing the top slightly to make it even. This helps the cinnamon swirl you’ll add next spread beautifully.
Step 6: Create and Add Your Signature Cinnamon Swirl
Mix together the coconut sugar, additional ground cinnamon, and melted coconut oil in a small bowl. Drizzle this sticky, fragrant mixture over the top of the oatmeal and use a knife to gently swirl it in, mimicking the look and luscious flavor of cinnamon rolls.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden and Set
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’re aiming for a golden-brown top with edges that are slightly crisp but with the inside fully cooked and deliciously tender. This baking time allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow your baked oatmeal to cool for a few minutes so it can set, making it easier to slice and serve. If you want to kick things up a notch, a drizzle of extra maple syrup or a dollop of creamy yogurt on top is pure bliss.
How to Serve Healthy Sticky Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Garnishes
A generous sprinkle of chopped nuts or a few fresh berries can add texture and brightness. For a creamy finish, a spoonful of Greek yogurt or plant-based alternative creates a luscious contrast with the baked oatmeal’s stickiness.
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with a simple green smoothie or a refreshing side of sliced fruits to bring some fresh, vibrant flavors that balance the warm cinnamon and natural sweetness of the oatmeal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in cute ramekins, topped with a swirl of almond butter or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes. You can also layer the baked oatmeal with yogurt and fruit to make a stunning breakfast parfait that feels extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover baked oatmeal keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors develop even more, making it an easy grab-and-go breakfast or snack all week long.
Freezing
If you want to prepare in advance, cut the baked oatmeal into individual portions and freeze them in airtight containers or freezer bags. It freezes wonderfully and keeps its texture well, perfect for busy mornings.
Reheating
Reheat your frozen or refrigerated portions in the microwave for about 60 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Adding a drizzle of maple syrup or a splash of milk before reheating keeps the oatmeal moist and extra tasty.
FAQs
Can I use steel-cut oats for this recipe?
Steel-cut oats aren’t ideal here because they’re much tougher and require longer cooking times. Stick to old-fashioned rolled oats for that perfect baked texture.
Is it okay to substitute the almond milk with regular milk?
Absolutely! You can use any milk you prefer, including dairy or other plant-based options, and it won’t change the taste significantly.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can replace the egg with a flax or chia egg to keep it vegan. The binding will be slightly different but still delicious.
How sticky is the cinnamon swirl?
The coconut sugar and melted coconut oil create a wonderfully sticky, caramel-like topping that’s not too sweet but perfectly luscious, mimicking a cinnamon roll glaze.
Can I add other spices or flavors?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding nutmeg, cardamom, or even a splash of orange zest to personalize your Healthy Sticky Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Healthy Sticky Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe is a total game changer for your breakfast routine. It’s comforting, nourishing, and downright delicious in a way that makes you feel good inside and out. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s become a favorite go-to meal for cozy mornings or anytime you want a wholesome indulgence. Give it a whirl—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Healthy Sticky Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Healthy Sticky Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal is a delicious and nutritious breakfast option that combines the warm flavors of cinnamon and maple syrup with wholesome oats. Perfectly baked to a golden brown, this oatmeal dish offers a comforting cinnamon swirl topping reminiscent of cinnamon rolls, without the added guilt. It’s a great make-ahead meal ideal for busy mornings and can be customized with raisins and nuts for extra texture and flavor.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil (for cinnamon swirl)
Optional Add-ins
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish thoroughly with melted coconut oil to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine old-fashioned oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir the mixture well to evenly distribute the leavening and spices throughout the oats.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the unsweetened almond milk, maple syrup, beaten egg, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil until fully blended and smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir thoroughly until everything is fully incorporated. If desired, gently fold in raisins and chopped nuts to add texture and sweetness.
- Transfer Mixture: Pour the prepared oatmeal mixture evenly into the greased baking dish, spreading it out for an even bake.
- Prepare Cinnamon Swirl Topping: In a small bowl, blend the coconut sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted coconut oil to create a sweet, sticky cinnamon swirl. Drizzle this mixture over the oatmeal and use a knife to swirl it into the batter for a marbled effect.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes until the top turns golden brown and the oatmeal is fully set without being jiggly in the center.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the baked oatmeal to cool slightly for a few minutes to set fully. Serve warm, optionally adding extra maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt for extra creaminess and flavor.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute the egg with a flax or chia egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseeds or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes).
- Use gluten-free oats if you require a gluten-free dish.
- Customize with your favorite nuts or dried fruit, such as walnuts, almonds, or dried cranberries.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; reheat before serving.
- This recipe can be doubled and baked in a larger dish for more servings.
