There is something truly comforting about a warm, sweet breakfast that feels special yet effortless to make, and that’s exactly what you get with this Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal Recipe. It combines the coziness of baked oatmeal with the irresistible crumbly streusel topping reminiscent of classic coffee cake, making it a perfect start to any morning. Each bite offers a delightful mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, tender oats, and optional bursts of fresh fruit or crunchy nuts, bringing both nutrition and indulgence to your breakfast table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, each playing a crucial role to balance flavor, texture, and that wonderful golden color. From the wholesome rolled oats to the warm spices and buttery streusel topping, everything works together to create comfort in every bite.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: The hearty base that soaks up the flavors and provides satisfying texture.
- Brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a subtle molasses note that deepens the dish’s flavor.
- Baking powder: Helps the baked oatmeal rise lightly for a tender crumb.
- Salt: Enhances all other flavors and balances sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon: Brings warm, aromatic spice quintessential to coffee cake taste.
- Ground nutmeg: A subtle, cozy spice that complements cinnamon beautifully.
- Eggs: Bind ingredients and add richness to the texture.
- Milk (dairy or non-dairy): Creates moisture to yield a custard-like softness.
- Melted butter or coconut oil: Contributes to moistness and richness, plus helps the topping turn golden and crumbly.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness and adds depth.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): For an optional crunch and nutty flavor.
- Chopped apples or blueberries (optional): Adds juicy bursts of freshness and natural sweetness.
- Flour (for streusel topping): Provides structure for the crumbly topping.
- Brown sugar (for streusel): Sweetens and adds texture to the topping.
- Cinnamon (for streusel): Brings that signature coffee cake spice to the topping.
- Cold butter (for streusel): Creates the tender, flaky crumble when cut into the dry ingredients.
How to Make Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing an 8×8-inch baking dish. This ensures the baked oatmeal will release easily, and the baking temperature is just right for a nicely set center and golden crust.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine your oats, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mixing these well distributes the warmth of the spices evenly throughout, setting the flavor foundation for the dish.
Step 3: Whisk Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and blended. This mixture adds richness and moisture so your baked oatmeal isn’t dry or crumbly.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. If you’re using chopped nuts or fruit like apples or blueberries, fold them in gently here to distribute them without breaking them up too much.
Step 5: Prepare the Streusel Topping
In a small bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Then cut in the cold butter with a fork or your fingers until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. This topping will crisp up beautifully as it bakes, adding that signature coffee cake crunch.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Pour your oatmeal mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the surface. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes until the center is set and the top is golden brown and inviting.
Step 7: Cool Slightly and Serve
Let your Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal Recipe cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving, allowing the flavors to meld and the texture to set perfectly.
How to Serve Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Garnishes
A light drizzle of maple syrup is delightful to add natural sweetness and moisture. Alternatively, a dollop of Greek yogurt brings creaminess and a touch of tang that balances the sweetness beautifully. A sprinkle of additional chopped nuts or cinnamon can make it feel extra special.
Side Dishes
This baked oatmeal shines as a stand-alone breakfast but pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit on the side or even a perfectly brewed cup of coffee to keep with the coffee cake theme. For an even heartier meal, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a breakfast sausage for a balanced plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try baking individual portions in ramekins for a personal breakfast treat, or layer slices in a breakfast parfait with yogurt and fresh berries. You can also top warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent brunch twist that turns it into a dessert-worthy delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Enjoy your baked oatmeal leftovers by storing them covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors actually deepen, so it’s a fantastic option for a quick, nutritious breakfast all week long.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months without losing their delicious texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the microwave for about 30 to 60 seconds until warm and cozy. You can also reheat in a preheated oven at 325°F for 10-15 minutes if you prefer a crispier topping. Add your favorite topping right before serving to freshen it up.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
While quick oats could work in a pinch, old-fashioned rolled oats provide the best texture and soak up the flavors perfectly without turning mushy, making them ideal for this Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal Recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Swap out the eggs for a flax or chia egg, use a plant-based milk, and substitute the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative to keep it deliciously vegan-friendly.
Can I add other fruits or nuts?
Yes! This recipe is very versatile. Try mixing in strawberries, raspberries, or even dried fruits like cranberries. Nuts like almonds or hazelnuts are also tasty alternatives to walnuts or pecans.
How do I know when the baked oatmeal is done?
The baked oatmeal is done when the center is set and no longer jiggly, and the top has a beautiful golden brown color. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Simply double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish, adjusting the cooking time slightly as needed. Just keep an eye on the center and topping to avoid over- or under-baking.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a cozy yet healthy breakfast that feels a little indulgent, this Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal Recipe is your new best friend. It’s easy to make, flexible to customize, and always comforting to eat. Grab your favorite mix-ins, preheat your oven, and give this recipe a try — your mornings will thank you!
Print
Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal is a comforting and wholesome breakfast dish that combines the heartiness of rolled oats with the warm flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a crumbly streusel topping. Perfect for a make-ahead meal, it features optional nuts and fruits for added texture and taste, making it both nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients
Oatmeal Mixture
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 eggs
- 1 3/4 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/4 cup melted butter or coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped apples or blueberries (optional)
Streusel Topping
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons cold butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices and leavening agent.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, melted butter or coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully integrated.
- Mix Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the chopped nuts and fruits if you are using them for added flavor and texture.
- Assemble: Pour the oatmeal mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula to ensure uniform cooking.
- Prepare Streusel Topping: In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Use a fork or your fingers to cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Topping and Bake: Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the oatmeal mixture. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes or until the center is set and the top has turned golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the baked oatmeal to cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm with optional toppings like maple syrup or Greek yogurt.
Notes
- You can substitute the milk with any non-dairy alternative such as almond, soy, or oat milk.
- Add a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of Greek yogurt when serving for extra richness and flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and reheated gently before eating.
