Oh, let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite breakfast treats: The Best Cinnamon Sugar Baked Oatmeal! If you’re anything like me, mornings can sometimes be a chaotic race against the clock. That’s why I adore recipes that allow me to whip up something wholesome, delicious, and surprisingly simple to pull together. This baked oatmeal has become my go-to during those busy mornings, and believe me, it makes the whole house smell like a cozy bakery.
I can’t remember exactly when I first stumbled upon baked oatmeal, but I do know it was a game changer for breakfast! Each bite is a warm hug of cinnamon sugar comfort, and when you top it off with fresh strawberries and a drizzle of maple syrup, it feels like a mini celebration. It’s not just for breakfast, either—I’ve caught myself indulging in a square (or two!) for a late-night snack. It’s the kind of dish that brings a smile to your face every single time you dig in!
What’s in The Best Cinnamon Sugar Baked Oatmeal?
– Rolled Oats: The star of the show! Rolled oats provide a hearty base and are full of fiber, keeping you full and fueled. I always choose old-fashioned rolled oats for this recipe; they hold their texture really well when baked.
– Baking Powder: This little magic powder helps the oatmeal rise and gives it that perfect fluffy texture. Just don’t skip it, or your baked oatmeal might end up a bit too dense.
– Ground Cinnamon: This warm and aromatic spice gives the oatmeal its signature flavor. I like using a good quality cinnamon—Vietnamese or Ceylon if you can find them—because the flavor is just out of this world.
– Salt: A pinch of salt is essential to balance the sweetness from the brown sugar. It’s amazing how a little salt can elevate the overall flavor!
– Brown Sugar: Packed brown sugar adds a lovely sweetness with that deep, caramel-like flavor. If you prefer, you could substitute with coconut sugar or even a sugar alternative.
– Eggs: Helps bind everything together and gives the oatmeal a nice custardy texture. Go for large eggs; they provide the right amount of richness.
– Milk: You can use any milk you prefer—dairy or non-dairy like almond or oat milk work perfectly here.
– Vanilla Extract: An essential ingredient that brings warmth and depth to the flavors.
– Melted Butter or Coconut Oil: Either one adds richness and moisture. I usually use butter, but coconut oil can make it dairy-free and adds a fun tropical twist.
– Fresh Strawberries: These juicy slices are an amazing topping that adds a burst of freshness. But feel free to use whatever seasonal fruit you adore!
– Maple Syrup: Optional but highly recommended for that perfect finishing touch.
Is The Best Cinnamon Sugar Baked Oatmeal Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! This baked oatmeal checks quite a few boxes on the health front.
– Rolled Oats: These are fantastic for heart health, loaded with fiber which can help keep your digestion running smoothly and keep you feeling full longer. Plus, they’re a great source of vitamins and minerals.
– Eggs: A perfect protein source! They aid in muscle repair and keep you satisfied throughout the morning.
– Milk: Depending on your choice, this is a great source of calcium and other essential nutrients. Using non-dairy options can also keep it lighter and lactose-free.
Now, while this recipe is generally nutritious, it’s wise to consider portion sizes, especially with the sugar. I usually watch the maple syrup drizzle, but hey, life’s all about balance! If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can reduce the brown sugar or use natural sweeteners.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup melted butter (or coconut oil)
– Fresh strawberries, sliced (for topping)
– Maple syrup (for serving, optional)
(Yields about 9 servings)
How to Make The Best Cinnamon Sugar Baked Oatmeal?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, salt, and brown sugar. Stir it all together until well combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth and creamy.
4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and give it a good stir until everything is nicely combined.
5. Transfer the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
7. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before cutting it into squares (this will test your patience, I know!).
8. Serve warm, topped with fresh strawberry slices and a drizzle of maple syrup, if desired. Enjoy every bite!
Delicious Tips & Serving Suggestions!
– Experiment with different toppings! I often switch it up with sliced bananas, blueberries, or even a dollop of yogurt on top. Your taste buds will appreciate the change.
– Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just pop it in the microwave for a quick breakfast!
– You can also make this a meal prep favorite! Bake up a batch on Sunday and have breakfast sorted for the week ahead.
I can’t wait for you to try this recipe! It’s become a staple in my home for good reason. Whether it’s a weekday breakfast or a cozy weekend brunch, I promise you’ll find joy in every slice. So, roll up your sleeves, get those ingredients ready, and let’s bake something delicious! If you try it out, make sure to let me know how it turns out—happy baking!
