If you’re searching for a breakfast that feels indulgent yet fuels your body with wholesome goodness, look no further than this Healthy Sticky Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe. It’s like biting into a warm cinnamon roll but packed with hearty oats and natural sweetness, offering a cozy, comforting start to your day without any guilt. The sticky cinnamon swirl on top adds that perfect touch of nostalgia, while the baked oatmeal’s texture balances soft and chewy beautifully. Trust me, once you try this, your breakfast routine will never be the same.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet each plays an important role in creating the taste, texture, and inviting aroma of your Healthy Sticky Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe. From the wholesome oats to the fragrant cinnamon and the natural sweetness of maple syrup, every item enhances the dish’s wholesome personality.
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats: The hearty base that gives structure and chewiness to the bake.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the oatmeal rise, making it light and fluffy.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Provides that classic warm and spicy flavor essential to cinnamon rolls.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the overall flavor.
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk: A creamy and dairy-free liquid that blends everything smoothly.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness with a subtle depth.
- 1 large egg, beaten: Binds the ingredients together for the perfect baked texture.
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted: Gives richness and a slight tropical hint without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor complexity with its sweet aroma.
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional): A burst of natural fruity sweetness and chew.
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional): Adds crunch and a toasty note.
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar: Creates the sticky, caramelized cinnamon topping.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: Intensifies the cinnamon swirl that makes this bake so special.
- 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil: Binds the cinnamon topping and adds shine and moisture.
How to Make Healthy Sticky Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by heating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish thoroughly with coconut oil to prevent sticking and add a subtle flavor. This step ensures your baked oatmeal pulls out clean and has a beautiful golden crust.
Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mixing these first allows the leavening and spices to distribute evenly throughout the oats, making every bite perfectly flavored and fluffy.
Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, vigorously whisk together the almond milk, maple syrup, beaten egg, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil. This creates a smooth, sweet liquid blend that will soak into the oats and help bind everything into a tender bake.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixes
Pour the wet mixture into the dry, stirring until fully combined. If you’re using raisins and chopped nuts, fold them in now to add interesting bursts of texture and sweetness throughout the dish.
Step 5: Transfer and Create the Cinnamon Swirl
Spread the oatmeal mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Now, in a small bowl, mix the coconut sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted coconut oil to make your sticky cinnamon swirl. Drizzle this fabulous cinnamon topping over the oatmeal and use a knife to swirl it through for that irresistible cinnamon roll effect.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Place your dish in the oven and bake for about 35 to 40 minutes, until the top turns golden brown and the oatmeal is set but still moist. Once done, let it cool for a few minutes—this helps it firm up and deepens the sticky cinnamon roll vibe.
How to Serve Healthy Sticky Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Healthy Sticky Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe, consider topping it with a drizzle of extra maple syrup or a dollop of Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt for creaminess. A sprinkle of toasted nuts or a few fresh berries also adds delightful color and crunch.
Side Dishes
This baked oatmeal pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh fruit salad or a simple green smoothie. The freshness of the fruit complements the warm, comforting cinnamon flavor while keeping the meal balanced and nutritious.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in cute ramekins or mason jars, layering with yogurt and berries. You could also cut the baked oatmeal into bars for a grab-and-go breakfast treat that still boasts all the gooey cinnamon goodness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Healthy Sticky Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 4 days, making it perfect for busy mornings when you need breakfast in a snap.
Freezing
You can freeze individual slices or the whole dish wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Frozen baked oatmeal holds up well for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or oven. If microwaving, cover loosely to trap steam and keep it moist. For the oven, warmth at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10-15 minutes works wonders to revive that fresh-baked charm.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! This recipe already uses unsweetened almond milk and coconut oil, making it naturally dairy-free and perfect for those with lactose intolerance or following a plant-based diet.
Can I use rolled oats or quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
Old-fashioned oats offer the best texture, holding shape well during baking. Quick oats can work but might result in a softer, less chewy bake. Steel-cut oats are not recommended as they do not soften fully in the baking time.
Is there a way to reduce sugar in this recipe?
You can reduce the maple syrup slightly or omit raisins and coconut sugar in the topping for a less sweet version. Keep in mind that the sticky cinnamon swirl is key to its classic flavor, so find a balance that works for your taste buds.
Can I add protein to make this a more filling breakfast?
Great idea! Consider stirring in a scoop of your favorite protein powder into the wet ingredients or topping individual servings with nut butter or Greek yogurt to boost protein content.
How do I make the cinnamon swirl perfectly sticky?
The combination of coconut sugar and melted coconut oil creates that sticky, caramelized cinnamon swirl. Be sure to mix them well and drizzle immediately over the oatmeal before baking for the gooey, cinnamon roll effect.
Final Thoughts
This Healthy Sticky Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe is one of those rare dishes that combines comfort food vibes with nourishing ingredients. It’s a reliable recipe to brighten your mornings and possibly become a new family favorite breakfast. So grab your oats and cinnamon, and dive into this warm, cozy treat—you won’t regret it!
Print
Healthy Sticky Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Healthy Sticky Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal combines wholesome oats with warm cinnamon and a sticky coconut sugar swirl, delivering all the flavors of a classic cinnamon roll in a nutritious, comforting baked dish. Perfect for a hearty breakfast or snack, it’s naturally sweetened with maple syrup and includes optional additions like 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
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
Optional Add-ins
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Cinnamon Swirl Topping
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with coconut oil to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir thoroughly to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together unsweetened almond milk, maple syrup, beaten egg, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until everything is fully incorporated. If desired, fold in raisins and chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the oatmeal batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly to fill the dish.
- Make Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, mix coconut sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted coconut oil to create the sticky swirl topping. Drizzle this mixture over the oatmeal and use a knife to gently swirl it through the top layer.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oatmeal has fully set.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the baked oatmeal to cool for a few minutes after removing from the oven. Optionally, serve with extra maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess and sweetness.
Notes
- You can omit raisins and nuts to keep it simpler or to cater to allergies.
- For a vegan version, substitute the egg with a flax egg or chia egg.
- Using old-fashioned oats is important for the right texture; quick oats will make it too mushy.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat before serving.
- Maple syrup adds natural sweetness; honey or agave syrup can be alternatives.
