If you’re craving warm, cozy comfort food that wakes up your morning with a swirl of sweet cinnamon goodness, this Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine the rich aroma of cinnamon rolls mingling with hearty oats, creating a delightful, wholesome breakfast that’s simple to make but feels indulgent every bite of the way. This dish takes your typical oatmeal to a whole new level by baking it into a soft, fluffy, cinnamon-infused masterpiece that’s perfect for the whole family to enjoy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe relies on an inviting mix of pantry staples that blend naturally to deliver incredible flavor, texture, and that classic cinnamon roll vibe. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the oats providing hearty body to the warm spices bringing comfort and depth to every forkful.
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats: The hearty base of the dish, offering a satisfying chew and wholesome fiber.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the baked oatmeal rise beautifully for a tender texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Infuses the dish with that signature spicy sweetness.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together while adding richness.
- 1½ cups milk or plant-based milk: Adds moisture and creaminess—choose your favorite!
- ¼ cup melted butter or coconut oil: Brings a luscious smoothness and golden color.
- ¼ cup brown sugar: Sweetens naturally while contributing a subtle molasses flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Boosts sweetness and rounds out the cinnamon notes.
- ⅓ cup brown sugar (for cinnamon swirl): Creates that gooey cinnamon roll swirl inside the oatmeal.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for cinnamon swirl): Mixed with brown sugar to make the irresistible cinnamon swirl.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish evenly using butter or oil to prevent the oatmeal from sticking and to help the edges turn delectably crispy during baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the old-fashioned oats, baking powder, salt, and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon. This ensures the flavors are well distributed from the very start, so every bite has a perfect cinnamon-spiced base.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, lightly beat the eggs, then add the milk, melted butter, ¼ cup brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir everything until the mixture is smooth and invitingly glossy.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients gradually into the dry oat mixture and stir gently until fully combined. The batter should be thick but pourable, ready to take on that cinnamon roll identity.
Step 5: Create the Cinnamon Swirl Layers
In a small bowl, mix the remaining ⅓ cup brown sugar with 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. Spoon half the oatmeal batter into your prepared dish, sprinkle half the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over it, then add the remaining batter on top. Using a knife or skewer, swirl gently through the layers to form the iconic cinnamon roll spiral effect that will bake into every bite.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place your baking dish in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set. You’ll know it’s done when it’s slightly springy to the touch and smells absolutely irresistible.
Step 7: Cool Slightly and Serve
Let the baked oatmeal cool for a few minutes so it sets up nicely. Then, cut into portions and savor the warm, comforting flavors that are like a cinnamon roll in oatmeal form.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a touch of garnish elevates your serving experience. A drizzle of cream cheese glaze or a dollop of Greek yogurt pairs beautifully, adding creaminess and a slight tang that highlights the cinnamon’s warmth. Fresh berries or chopped nuts on top add burst of freshness and crunch.
Side Dishes
This dish is perfect on its own but pairing it with fresh fruit, a glass of cold milk, or even a small side of scrambled eggs can make for a well-rounded, satisfying breakfast that keeps everyone happy and fueled.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe in rustic ramekins for an individual touch, or pack slices into lunch containers for a delicious ready-to-go snack. You can even turn leftovers into a warm oatmeal parfait layered with yogurt and granola.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It holds up wonderfully, making it an easy grab-and-go option for busy mornings.
Freezing
You can freeze individual portions by wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. Add a splash of milk before reheating to keep the oatmeal moist and creamy, and consider topping with fresh fruit or a little extra cinnamon sugar for freshness.
FAQs
Can I use rolled oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
Old-fashioned oats are recommended because they hold their texture well during baking. Quick oats might result in a softer, less structured dish, but it can still work if that’s what you have on hand.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the milk with any plant-based milk like almond, oat, or soy, and replace butter with melted coconut oil for a delicious dairy-free version.
How sweet is this Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe?
The recipe balances sweetness perfectly to deliver cozy cinnamon sugar flavors without being overly sugary. You can adjust the brown sugar amounts to taste if you prefer it sweeter or less sweet.
Can I add nuts or fruits to this recipe?
Yes! Chopped walnuts or pecans mix wonderfully into the batter or sprinkled on top before baking. Fresh or dried fruits like apples, raisins, or blueberries also make tasty additions.
What’s the best way to make the cinnamon swirl pattern?
After layering the batter and cinnamon sugar, gently drag a knife or skewer through the mixture in S-shaped swirls. This creates a beautiful marbled effect that mimics a cinnamon roll’s spiral perfectly.
Final Thoughts
There is truly something magical about waking up to the warm scent and taste of this Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe. It’s an effortless way to turn a simple breakfast into a cozy celebration of flavors everyone will love. So go ahead, try it out and let yourself enjoy that homemade cinnamon roll experience every morning with a touch of wholesome oats and loads of heartwarming cinnamon.
Print
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
A delicious and comforting Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal recipe that combines the warmth of cinnamon and brown sugar with hearty oats, baked to golden perfection. This wholesome breakfast is easy to prepare, perfect for a cozy morning, and offers the delightful flavors of cinnamon rolls in a healthy oatmeal form.
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
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish evenly to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the old-fashioned oats, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly, then stir in the milk, melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until fully incorporated and the batter is consistent.
- Layer with Cinnamon Sugar: Mix the cinnamon and brown sugar in a small bowl. Spoon portions of the batter into the prepared baking dish in layers, alternating with cinnamon sugar. Gently swirl the mixture using a knife or skewer to create the classic cinnamon roll effect.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes or until the top is golden and the center is set.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the baked oatmeal to cool for a few minutes, then cut into portions and enjoy warm.
Notes
- Use plant-based milk and coconut oil to make this recipe dairy-free and vegan-friendly.
- The cinnamon sugar swirl is key to achieving the cinnamon roll flavor – don’t skip or mix it directly into the batter.
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated for a quick breakfast.
- For extra texture, add chopped nuts or raisins before baking.
