Vanilla Cinnamon Baked Oats

Name: Vanilla Cinnamon Baked Oats
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 2 cups milk (or dairy-free alternative); 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup maple syrup; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Fresh berries; Sliced banana; Chopped nuts; Yogurt or whipped cream

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Inspiration

I absolutely adore starting my day with a warm bowl of Vanilla Cinnamon Baked Oats. The comforting aroma of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen is just too good to resist! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of vanilla with the earthy flavors of oats, creating a wholesome breakfast that’s ready in no time. I love how customizable it is—sometimes I add nuts or dried fruits for an extra crunch. It’s not only delicious but also nutritious, making it the perfect way to fuel my mornings.

Created by

Linnea Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-15T18:49:42.310Z

When I first tried Vanilla Cinnamon Baked Oats, I was surprised by how such simple ingredients could create a dish that feels indulgent yet healthy. The combination of oats, milk, and eggs creates a fluffy texture, while the vanilla and cinnamon give it that nostalgic homey taste. I recommend letting it rest for a few minutes after baking; it turns more cake-like, which is simply delightful!

One tip I’ve learned is to mix in some Greek yogurt before baking. It adds a creamy richness that you won’t want to miss. Plus, experimenting with different toppings, like fresh berries or a drizzle of honey, turns each serving into something new. It’s a breakfast that keeps on giving!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Aromatic vanilla and cinnamon flavors that awaken your senses
Healthy and filling, perfect for breakfast or a snack
Easy to customize with your favorite toppings and mix-ins

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of Vanilla Cinnamon Baked Oats lies in its star ingredient: rolled oats. These oats provide fiber, helping to keep you full and satisfied. Unlike instant oats, rolled oats maintain a chewy texture even after baking, resulting in a delightful consistency that contrasts nicely with the creamy custard created by the eggs and milk. When combined, they absorb the flavors of vanilla and cinnamon, enhancing the overall taste profile of your morning dish.

Maple syrup not only sweetens the baked oats but also adds a rich, caramel-like flavor that pairs beautifully with vanilla and cinnamon. For a lighter option, you can substitute it with honey or agave syrup, but keep in mind that these alternatives may alter the taste slightly. The eggs in this recipe act as a binding agent, helping the mixture hold together while also providing protein, making it a more substantial breakfast choice.

Baking Tips and Techniques

For even cooking, it's crucial to spread the oat mixture evenly in the greased baking dish. An 8x8 inch square pan is ideal, as it allows the oats to cook thoroughly, creating a golden brown crust on top while maintaining a moist interior. Keep an eye on your dish as it bakes; look for a puffed-up appearance and a golden hue around the edges as signs that it's ready to come out of the oven, typically around 30 minutes of baking time.

If you prefer a creamier texture, consider covering the dish with aluminum foil for the first half of the baking process. This will help retain moisture. Additionally, using a dairy-free milk alternative not only caters to dietary preferences but can also introduce unique flavors, depending on the type you use. Almond milk lends a nutty taste, while coconut milk can add a tropical note.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These baked oats can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. Simply reheat individual portions in the microwave for about one minute or until warmed through. You can also freeze leftovers for a quick breakfast option—just cut into squares, wrap in plastic, and keep in an airtight container for up to three months. Reheat directly from frozen for about two minutes in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to keep them moist.

Top your Vanilla Cinnamon Baked Oats with a variety of toppings to elevate the dish. Fresh berries add a burst of juiciness, while sliced bananas provide natural sweetness. If you enjoy a crunch, sprinkle some chopped nuts or granola on top. For a touch of indulgence, a dollop of yogurt or whipped cream can transform this simple breakfast into a special treat, perfect for leisurely weekends.

Ingredients

For the Baked Oats

2 cups rolled oats
2 cups milk (or dairy-free alternative)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup maple syrup
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

For Topping (Optional)

Fresh berries
Sliced banana
Chopped nuts
Yogurt or whipped cream

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

Whisk Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine and Pour

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until fully incorporated. Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

Serve

Let the baked oats cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with desired toppings and enjoy!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or add a scoop of protein powder to the wet ingredients for a nutrition boost!

Potential Variations

Feel free to experiment with different spices in the baked oats. Nutmeg, for example, can complement cinnamon beautifully and offers a warm, aromatic flavor. Additionally, adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder can transform the dish into a chocolatey delight—perfect for the chocolate lovers in your household. You could even swap out vanilla extract for almond extract for a unique twist.

Adding fruits such as diced apples or pears before baking can infuse natural sweetness and moisture into the dish. They’ll soften and meld into the oats, creating pockets of tender fruit with every bite. Consider folding in a handful of shredded coconut for added texture and flavor, or even a scoop of your favorite protein powder to boost the nutritional content without altering the base recipe.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your baked oats turn out too dry, it may be due to overbaking or not enough liquid. Make sure to check for a custard-like consistency before removing them from the oven—if they seem excessively firm, consider reducing the baking time. Conversely, if they are too wet, a little more time in the oven should solve the issue. Just keep a close eye to prevent them from burning.

In case you encounter a grainy texture, it could be due to insufficient mixing. Ensure that the wet ingredients are thoroughly combined before pouring them over the oats. This will help each piece of oat absorb the liquid evenly, resulting in a smoother texture. If you like a smoother finished product, you might also consider blending the wet ingredients before combining them with the dry.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based milk and syrup for a vegan option.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave before serving.

→ Can I freeze baked oats?

Absolutely! Cut into portions, wrap individually, and freeze for convenient breakfasts.

→ What other toppings would you recommend?

Try adding peanut butter, coconut flakes, or a sprinkle of chocolate chips for a delicious twist!