This Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal is a warm and cozy breakfast that’s oh-so-easy to make! With delicious cinnamon, nutty oats, and a touch of sweetness, every bite feels like a hug.
I love eating this for breakfast on chilly mornings. The smell of cinnamon fills the house, and it feels like a little treat! You can even top it with some icing for extra yumminess!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: These oats give the best texture for baked oatmeal. If you only have quick oats, they can work but may turn mushy. I prefer rolled oats for that chewy bite!
Milk: You can use any milk you like—cow’s milk, almond, oat, or soy milk all work great! If you’re looking for a richer flavor, try using whole milk.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Both add sweetness, but maple syrup gives a nice flavor that matches well with cinnamon. If you’re out, brown sugar can also be a good swap, but it’ll change the texture slightly.
Cream Cheese: This adds a delightful creaminess to the glaze. If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, try using a vegan cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist!
How Do You Get a Swirling Cinnamon Effect?
Swirling the cinnamon sugar into the oatmeal is key for that classic cinnamon roll look! Here’s how to do it:
- After pouring the oatmeal mixture into the baking dish, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the top.
- Take the back of a spoon or a small spatula and gently swirl it around in a circular motion to create a spiral pattern.
- Be careful not to overmix; you want distinct swirls to show off when serving!
This technique not only looks great but also adds pockets of flavorful cinnamon in every bite. Enjoy making your baked oatmeal beautiful and delicious!
Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Baked Oatmeal:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or coconut oil
- ⅓ cup maple syrup or honey
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon (for swirl)
For the Glaze:
- ¼ cup cream cheese
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk or cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 35-40 minutes for baking, totaling about 50 minutes before it’s ready to enjoy. Don’t forget to let it cool a bit before drizzling the glaze!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a round baking dish (about 8-inch) or an oven-safe skillet to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. This will be the base of your delicious oatmeal!
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter (or coconut oil), maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract until everything is well blended.
4. Combine Both Mixtures:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Pour the prepared oatmeal mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
6. Create the Cinnamon Swirl:
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and additional cinnamon for the swirl topping. Sprinkle this cinnamon sugar mixture over the top of the oatmeal.
7. Swirl It In:
Using the back of a spoon, gently swirl the cinnamon sugar into the oatmeal batter to create that lovely cinnamon roll effect.
8. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the oatmeal is set. The smell will be amazing!
9. Prepare the Glaze:
While the oatmeal is baking, mix the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk in a bowl until smooth. This will be the icing that ties it all together!
10. Drizzle the Glaze:
Once the oatmeal has cooled slightly, drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the top in a spiral pattern for that classic cinnamon roll look.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice and serve warm! Enjoy the comforting flavors of cinnamon roll baked oatmeal as a delightful breakfast treat.
This recipe is sure to start your day off on a delicious note, combining the warmth of cinnamon rolls with the heartiness of oats!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Quick oats can be used, but they may result in a mushier texture. I recommend sticking with old-fashioned rolled oats for the best outcome, as they hold their shape and give a nice chewiness.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use plant-based milk and a vegan butter or oil for the glaze. This will keep your baked oatmeal vegan-friendly!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. A splash of milk can help bring moisture back to the oatmeal!
Can I Freeze Baked Oatmeal?
Yes, you can freeze baked oatmeal! Just let it cool completely, then cut it into portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container. It will last for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as desired.
