Healthy Sticky Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe
If you have a soft spot for cozy breakfasts that feel indulgent but are secretly nourishing, then you’re going to adore this Healthy Sticky Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe. It captures all the warm, comforting flavors of a cinnamon roll with a delightful sticky swirl, but with wholesome oats and natural sweeteners making it a guilt-free treat. Imagine waking up to a golden-baked dish that’s effortlessly packed with cinnamon goodness, a touch of maple sweetness, and the satisfying chew of oats—all baked into one perfect morning meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Healthy Sticky Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe uses ingredients that are surprisingly simple yet absolutely essential to get that harmony of flavor, texture, and color just right. Each component works together beautifully: hearty oats provide that wholesome base, spices and sweeteners bring the irresistible cinnamon roll vibe, and a touch of healthy fats keeps everything delightfully moist.
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats: The heart of the dish, adding a chewy texture and whole-grain goodness.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the oats rise slightly, giving you a light and fluffy baked dish.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The warming spice that defines this recipe’s signature flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Elevates all the sweet and savory notes perfectly.
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk: Keeps things dairy-free while making the oatmeal creamy and tender.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup: Naturally sweetens while adding that hint of caramel depth.
- 1 large egg, beaten: Binds everything together for a perfect, sliceable texture.
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted: Adds richness and subtle tropical flavor while keeping the dish moist.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a lovely aroma and enhances the cinnamon sweetness.
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional): For little pockets of chewy, natural sweetness throughout.
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional): Provides a delightful crunch and extra nutritional punch.
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar: Sweetens the sticky swirl topping with a rich, caramel-like flavor.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: Sprinkled into the swirl for an extra cinnamon kick on top.
- 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil: Helps the cinnamon swirl glaze shine and blend beautifully onto the bake.
How to Make Healthy Sticky Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by getting your oven nice and hot at 375°F (190°C), then grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with coconut oil. This step is crucial so that your baked oatmeal doesn’t stick and comes out looking picture perfect for serving.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. This dry mixture sets the stage for the comforting cinnamon flavors and the rise you want in your baked oatmeal.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, blend the unsweetened almond milk, maple syrup, beaten egg, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil. This blend brings the moisture and sweetness that transforms the oats from dry to decadently tender.
Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with your dry ingredients and stir until everything is fully combined. If you’re feeling extra cozy, fold in raisins and chopped nuts now for added texture and bursts of flavor in every bite.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Spread the oatmeal mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the top nicely so it bakes evenly and looks inviting once golden.
Step 6: Create and Swirl the Cinnamon Topping
Mix the coconut sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted coconut oil in a small bowl to make the sticky cinnamon swirl topping. Drizzle this over the oatmeal and use a knife to gently swirl it throughout the surface—this is what gives the bake its signature sticky cinnamon roll effect.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Pop your dish into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and the oatmeal is firmly set—but still soft and inviting inside.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let the baked oatmeal cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. If you want to elevate it further, drizzle a bit more maple syrup or add a dollop of creamy yogurt on top for extra richness.
How to Serve Healthy Sticky Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, consider sprinkling extra chopped nuts or a light dusting of cinnamon over the top. A spoonful of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of warm almond butter can also add creaminess that complements the sticky cinnamon swirl perfectly.
Side Dishes
This baked oatmeal pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas to add brightness and natural sweetness. A glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or a warm cup of herbal tea balances the morning meal beautifully too.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Healthy Sticky Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe in individual ramekins or muffin tins, making perfect portable portions. You can also layer it with yogurt and fresh fruit in a parfait glass for an Instagram-worthy breakfast treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover baked oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It keeps its flavor and texture well, making it perfect for quick breakfasts later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then placed inside a freezer bag. Frozen baked oatmeal will stay delicious for up to 2 months, letting you enjoy it anytime without extra prep.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes to regain that just-baked texture and warmth.
FAQs
Can I use steel-cut oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
Steel-cut oats have a much firmer texture and take longer to cook, so they are not recommended for this recipe. Old-fashioned oats provide the best consistency and bake properly in the given time.
Is there a vegan version of this recipe?
Yes! You can replace the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg (1 tablespoon ground seed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based yogurt as a topping to keep it fully vegan.
Can I substitute coconut sugar with regular brown sugar?
Absolutely. Brown sugar will work fine and provide a similar caramel flavor, though coconut sugar adds a slight nuttiness that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
What if I don’t like raisins or nuts?
You can simply leave out the raisins and nuts or swap them for dried cranberries, chopped dates, or seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for different textures and flavors.
How sticky should the topping be?
The cinnamon swirl topping should be slightly sticky but not overly wet. The coconut sugar combined with the melted coconut oil creates that perfect glossy, sweet layer that bakes into a delightful sticky surface.
Final Thoughts
This Healthy Sticky Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe is a fantastic way to start your day feeling cozy and nourished all at once. It’s simple to make yet feels special, perfect for weekdays or lazy weekend mornings. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite breakfast ritual that fills your kitchen with irresistible cinnamon aromas.
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Healthy Sticky Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Recipe
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Healthy Sticky Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal is a comforting and nutritious breakfast option that combines the cozy flavors of cinnamon rolls with hearty baked oats. It’s naturally sweetened with maple syrup and coconut sugar, made with wholesome ingredients like old-fashioned oats, almond milk, and coconut oil, and can be customized with raisins and nuts for extra texture and flavor. Baked to perfection, it offers a warm, gooey, and satisfying start to your day that’s both delicious and nourishing.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup coconut sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
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
- 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil (for swirl)
Optional Add-ins
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish thoroughly with coconut oil to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, baking powder, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the unsweetened almond milk, maple syrup, beaten egg, vanilla extract, and 1/4 cup of melted coconut oil until fully blended.
- Combine wet and dry: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir everything together until the mixture is fully combined. If you like, fold in the raisins and chopped nuts gently at this stage.
- Transfer to baking dish: Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Prepare cinnamon swirl: In a small bowl, mix the coconut sugar, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil until you get a cohesive cinnamon swirl mixture. Drizzle this mixture evenly over the oatmeal and use a knife to gently swirl it through the top layer.
- Bake the oatmeal: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top turns golden brown and the oatmeal has fully set.
- Cool and serve: Allow the baked oatmeal to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. For extra sweetness and creaminess, top with additional maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt, if desired.
Notes
- You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite nuts or dried fruits.
- Use gluten-free oats to make this recipe gluten-free if needed.
- For a vegan version, substitute the egg with a flax egg or chia egg.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat before serving.
- Adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of almond milk on top enhances creaminess and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American