Discover the warm, cozy flavors of Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal—a deliciously easy breakfast treat you’ll crave every morning! This baked oatmeal combines the comforting spices of cinnamon with the sweet swirl of a classic cinnamon roll, creating a perfect harmony of hearty oats and indulgent flavor. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious start to your day or a crowd-pleasing brunch option, this recipe delivers both taste and satisfaction in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort food made nutritious: Combines the indulgent flavor of cinnamon rolls with fiber-rich oats for a guilt-free breakfast.
- Hands-off baking: Easy to prepare ahead of time and bake, giving you more morning freedom.
- Perfectly balanced sweetness: Just enough honey and brown sugar to satisfy your sweet tooth without overwhelming the oats.
- Versatile and adaptable: Easy to modify with different milks, spices, or add-ins to suit your taste and dietary needs.
- Family-friendly: A crowd-pleaser that’s enjoyed by both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient is simple yet essential, working in harmony to create the rich, tender texture and classic cinnamon roll flavor in this Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal. From the oats’ hearty base to the warm cinnamon spice, every component plays a flavorful role.
- Old-fashioned oats: Provides the hearty, chewy texture that’s the base of the dish.
- Cinnamon: The star spice that delivers that unmistakable warm and fragrant flavor.
- Baking powder: Helps the oatmeal rise slightly for a soft, fluffy texture.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavors.
- Milk or plant-based milk: Adds moisture and creaminess to the mixture.
- Eggs: Bind ingredients together while adding protein.
- Brown sugar: Provides natural sweetness and a slight caramel flavor.
- Vanilla extract: Adds depth and complements the cinnamon perfectly.
- Butter or coconut oil: Adds richness and helps achieve a tender crumb.
- Cinnamon sugar swirl: Combination of cinnamon and sugar to create the iconic cinnamon roll ribbon effect inside.
Variations for Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal
You can easily personalize this Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal to fit your cravings, dietary needs, or what you have on hand. Feel free to get creative and make this your own cozy breakfast favorite.
- Vegan version: Swap eggs for flax eggs and use plant-based milk and coconut oil instead of butter.
- Gluten-free option: Use certified gluten-free oats to make it safe for gluten sensitivities.
- Nutty twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and richness.
- Fruit add-ins: Toss in blueberries, diced apples, or raisins for a fruity surprise.
- Spice things up: Add nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar swirl for a layered spice profile.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal
Step 1: Prepare the oven and baking dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish evenly to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients
In a large bowl, combine oats, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Whisk the wet ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat eggs lightly, then stir in milk, melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4: Combine wet and dry components
Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until fully incorporated and the mixture is consistent.
Step 5: Create the cinnamon sugar swirl
Mix cinnamon and brown sugar in a small bowl, then spoon portions of the batter into the baking dish, layering with cinnamon sugar and swirling gently using a knife or skewer to create that classic cinnamon roll effect.
Step 6: Bake the oatmeal
Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes or until the top is golden and the center is set.
Step 7: Let it cool and serve
Allow the baked oatmeal to cool for a few minutes then cut into portions and enjoy warm.
Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal
- Use old-fashioned oats: They absorb liquid better and hold texture, unlike quick oats.
- Swirl carefully: Use a toothpick or knife to create delicate cinnamon sugar swirls without overmixing.
- Room temperature ingredients: Make sure eggs and milk are not cold to help the batter mix evenly.
- Don’t overbake: Removing the oatmeal when slightly soft ensures it stays moist and tender.
- Add a topping: Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar on top before baking for a crunchy crust.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal
Garnishes
Top your Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal with a drizzle of vanilla glaze, a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt, or a sprinkle of crushed nuts to add texture and flavor contrast.
Side Dishes
Pair this warm, comforting dish with fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples, a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice, or a side of crispy bacon for a hearty breakfast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve portions in individual ramekins for a charming single-serve presentation, or layer warmed baked oatmeal with whipped cream and cinnamon crumble in a parfait glass for a brunch-worthy twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep it fresh and ready to reheat.
Freezing
Allow the oatmeal to cool completely, then cut into squares and freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or warm slices in a 325°F oven until heated through, adding a splash of milk to restore moisture if needed.
FAQs
Can I make Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal dairy-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap regular milk with almond, oat, or soy milk and replace butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine.
Is Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prep since it reheats well and stays delicious for days when stored properly.
Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
Quick oats can be used but may result in a softer, less chewy texture, so old-fashioned oats are preferred for the best consistency.
How can I make this recipe sweeter without adding more sugar?
Add natural sweeteners like mashed ripe banana or unsweetened applesauce to the batter for extra sweetness and moisture.
Can I make Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal gluten-free?
Yes, use certified gluten-free oats to ensure the dish is safe for gluten sensitivities and allergies.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about waking up to the aroma and flavor of Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal. It strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nourishment, making it an ideal breakfast that feels like a treat without the guilt. Give this recipe a try, and you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy oats every morning!
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Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal combines the comforting spices and sweetness of a classic cinnamon roll with hearty, fiber-rich oats for a nutritious and indulgent breakfast treat. Easy to prepare and bake, this cozy dish delivers balanced sweetness, a tender texture, and delicious cinnamon sugar swirls, perfect for a family-friendly meal or crowd-pleasing brunch.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1½ cups milk or plant-based milk
- ¼ cup melted butter or coconut oil
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish evenly to prevent sticking.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine old-fashioned oats, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
- Whisk the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly, then stir in milk, melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine wet and dry components: Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until fully incorporated and the mixture is consistent.
- Create the cinnamon sugar swirl: Mix cinnamon and brown sugar in a small bowl. Spoon portions of the batter into the baking dish in layers, alternating with cinnamon sugar, then gently swirl using a knife or skewer to create the classic cinnamon roll effect.
- Bake the oatmeal: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes or until the top is golden and the center is set.
- Let it cool and serve: Allow the baked oatmeal to cool for a few minutes, then cut into portions and enjoy warm.
Notes
- Use old-fashioned oats for the best texture as they absorb liquid better than quick oats.
- Swirl the cinnamon sugar gently using a toothpick or knife to avoid overmixing the batter.
- Ensure eggs and milk are at room temperature to help the batter mix evenly.
- Remove the oatmeal from the oven when it is still slightly soft to retain moisture and tenderness.
- Sprinkle extra cinnamon sugar on top before baking for a crunchy crust.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 44 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
