Save Enjoy the comforting flavors of dessert for breakfast with this wholesome Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal. This meal-prep friendly dish combines the heartiness of old-fashioned rolled oats with the aromatic warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, making it a perfect choice for busy mornings or a nutritious afternoon snack.
Save Transforming your morning routine is as simple as mixing a few pantry staples. This recipe creates a sliceable, satisfying texture that feels indulgent while providing the energy you need to tackle the day ahead.
Ingredients
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- ¼ cup unsweetened shredded coconut (optional)
- 2 cups milk (dairy or unsweetened non-dairy)
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup pure maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- ¼ cup melted coconut oil or unsalted butter
- 1 ½ cups finely grated carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
- ½ cup raisins
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x9-inch (23x23 cm) baking dish.
- Step 2
- In a large bowl, mix the oats, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, salt, walnuts, and coconut.
- Step 3
- In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil.
- Step 4
- Add the grated carrots and raisins to the wet mixture and stir to combine.
- Step 5
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until thoroughly combined.
- Step 6
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
- Step 7
- Bake for 35 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden.
- Step 8
- Let cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best texture, use a box grater to finely grate the carrots so they melt into the oatmeal. Most importantly, ensure you let the dish cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing; this allows the oatmeal to set properly for clean portions.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegan version, use flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flaxseed + 5 tbsp water) and your choice of non-dairy milk. You can swap walnuts for pecans or omit them entirely for a nut-free version. If you prefer a different fruit, you can adjust the raisins to your liking.
Serviervorschläge
This baked oatmeal is delicious on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a dollop of Greek yogurt, a light drizzle of maple syrup, or a side of fresh seasonal fruit for added brightness.
Save With only 265 calories per serving, this Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal is a smart and flavorful way to start your morning. Whip up a batch this weekend and enjoy a stress-free, delicious breakfast all week long.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make carrot cake baked oatmeal ahead of time?
Absolutely. This dish keeps refrigerated for up to 5 days and actually tastes better the next day as flavors meld. Prepare on Sunday, portion into containers, and reheat individual servings throughout the week for quick breakfasts.
- → What's the best way to grate carrots for this oatmeal?
Use a box grater or food processor to finely grate about 2 medium carrots. Finely grated carrots incorporate seamlessly into the batter and cook through evenly during baking. Avoid large chunks that won't soften properly.
- → How do I know when the baked oatmeal is done?
The center should feel set and firm to the touch, not jiggly. The top will turn golden brown with slightly crispy edges. Insert a knife in the center—it should come out clean without wet batter clinging to it.
- → Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats?
Old-fashioned oats work best as they hold their texture during baking. Quick oats may become mushy and affect the overall consistency. Steel-cut oats aren't recommended either, as they won't soften adequately in the baking time.
- → What toppings pair well with carrot cake baked oatmeal?
Warm portions taste wonderful with a dollop of Greek yogurt, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a spoonful of nut butter. Fresh berries, sliced bananas, or chopped pecans add variety. For extra protein, stir in a scoop of protein powder before baking.
- → Is this suitable for meal prep and freezing?
This meal-prep friendly dish refrigerates beautifully for up to 5 days. For longer storage, portion into individual containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave until warm throughout.