Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal Recipe

If you dream of warm, cozy breakfasts that taste like dessert but deliver the wholesome goodness you crave, this Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal will become your new go-to. Imagine all the classic comfort of your favorite crumb-topped coffee cake, translated into a nourishing baked oatmeal you can whip up in a flash. The golden baked oats, sweet and nutty crumble, and gentle spice in each bite created a comforting ritual in my mornings — and I’m certain this recipe will do the same for yours.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe comes together from everyday pantry staples, each one playing a special role in the flavor, texture, or classic look of your finished Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal. Don’t skip anything — together, they build a bite that’s so much more than the sum of its parts.

• Old Fashioned Rolled Oats: The base of this recipe, providing a hearty texture and that signature bake.
• Baking Powder: Gives the oatmeal a gentle lift, so every slice is light but satisfying.
• Cinnamon: Adds warmth and that irresistible coffee cake aroma.
• Salt: Just a pinch brings out all the other flavors beautifully.
• Flax, Chia, or Hemp Seeds: For a protein boost and a little nutty crunch (use your personal favorite or what’s in the pantry).
• Unsweetened Almond Milk: Keeps things creamy and light — any milk works if you’d rather use what’s on hand.
• Vanilla Extract: Brings sweet bakery notes to the entire dish.
• Unsweetened Applesauce (or Mashed Banana): Moisture and a touch of natural sweetness.
• Maple Syrup: Sweetness with plenty of depth and subtle caramel flavor.
• Old Fashioned Rolled Oats (for topping): A second round forms the classic crumb topping.
• Raw Sugar, Coconut Sugar, or Cane Sugar: Sprinkled in for that signature coffee cake crunch — adjust to taste.
• Cold Butter or Vegan Butter: For rich, buttery crumbs that melt right into the topping.

How to Make Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by heating your oven to 375 degrees so it’s ready when you are. Give an 8×8 baking pan a quick spritz with your favorite cooking oil spray to guarantee easy cleanup and perfect slices.

Step 2: Build the Oatmeal Base

Pour your rolled oats into the prepared pan, then sprinkle in the baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and the seeds you’ve chosen. Give it all a good mix right in the pan — so easy and no need for multiple bowls!

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Stir in the almond milk, vanilla extract, applesauce (or mashed banana, if that’s your style), and maple syrup. Mix until everything is thoroughly hydrated and the mixture looks cozy and well-combined.

Step 4: Make the Crumb Topping

In a small food processor or blender, pulse 1/3 cup rolled oats until you get a fine, flour-like consistency. Add in the cold butter, sugar, and cinnamon, and pulse just a few times until it gets crumbly with irresistible little butter dots throughout — this is your “coffee cake” magic!

Step 5: Top and Bake

Scatter the oat crumb mixture over the oatmeal base in the pan. Pop it all into the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the oatmeal is set and the crumb topping is crisp and golden.

Step 6: Finish and Enjoy

When your Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal emerges, let it cool for a few minutes to settle. My favorite final touch? A swirl of melted nut butter drizzled over each steamy portion — pure bliss!

How to Serve Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal

Garnishes

A handful of fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of your favorite nut butter all make gorgeous finishing touches for Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal. The contrasting colors and flavors bring out the “coffee shop” energy right at your own table.

Side Dishes

This dish is lovely solo, but pairs so well with tangy Greek yogurt, a fruit salad, or even a side of fluffy scrambled eggs if you want some extra protein in your morning feast. A hot mug of coffee or tea is, of course, a classic pairing.

Creative Ways to Present

Try baking the oatmeal in individual ramekins for brunch guests — everyone gets their own cute mini “cake”! Or slice cooled oatmeal into tidy bars and pack them in your lunchbox for a treat you can enjoy anytime, anywhere.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal cool to room temperature before covering tightly with foil or moving into an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days, ready for quick breakfasts or healthy snacks.

Freezing

If you want to stock up, slice the oatmeal into squares and freeze on a tray until firm. Then transfer the pieces to a freezer bag — they’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to three months. Perfect for busy mornings!

Reheating

To reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for about 30-40 seconds, or gently warm in a toaster oven. Add your favorite toppings and it’s as good as fresh from the oven.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Quick oats will bake up softer and may make the final dish less toothsome, but in a pinch, you can absolutely use them. The texture will be more uniform and cake-like, but the flavors will still shine.

Is Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal gluten-free?

As long as you use certified gluten-free rolled oats, this recipe is totally gluten-free. Always double-check your oats if you have a gluten intolerance, just to be safe.

Can I prep this the night before?

Absolutely! You can assemble the oatmeal mixture and crumb topping separately, pop both in the fridge overnight, and finish with the topping just before baking in the morning for fresh, warm Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal.

Can I add mix-ins like nuts or fruit?

Yes, this recipe is super customizable. Stir in chopped nuts, raisins, or blueberries for even more flavor and fun textures. You can easily make it your own from week to week.

What can I use instead of butter for the topping?

Vegan butter works beautifully, or you can try solid coconut oil for a plant-based alternative. Just keep it nice and cold for the best crumbly results in your Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal topping.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so special about sharing a warm, inviting pan of Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal — it’s a true crowd-pleaser, whether you’re fueling up for the day or treating friends at brunch. Give it a try and watch as this simple, cozy breakfast becomes a beloved staple in your own kitchen!

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