There’s something magical about the scent of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen, isn’t there? With my Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Squares, you can capture that delightful aroma and enjoy a wholesome breakfast that feels like a warm hug. This easy recipe transforms the beloved flavors of a classic cinnamon roll into a cozy, vegetarian dish that’s perfect for busy mornings. One of the best perks? You can whip it up in a single bowl, making cleanup a breeze! These baked oatmeal squares are not only comforting but also versatile, which means you can customize them with your favorite add-ins. Ready to fill your home with sweetness and start your day right? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!
Why are these oatmeal squares amazing?
Simplicity at Its Finest: Just one bowl is all you need for this easy recipe, making busy mornings a breeze.
Comforting Flavor: The warm cinnamon and sweet maple syrup create a cozy taste that everyone will love, perfect for your breakfast table.
Customizable Delight: Feel free to mix in your favorite add-ins like nuts or dried fruits for a personalized touch!
Quick Baking: In just around 30 minutes, your home will be filled with that beloved cinnamon roll scent.
Family-Friendly: These Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Squares are sure to please both kids and adults alike, making them a hit at any brunch gathering.
So what are you waiting for? Check out the
storage tips so you can keep these delightful treats on hand for any day of the week!
Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Squares Ingredients
For the Base
• Rolled Oats – Old-fashioned oats provide the ideal structure and texture; avoid instant or steel-cut for best results.
• Baking Powder – Ensures the perfect lift; make sure it’s fresh to create that delightful fluffy texture.
• Ground Cinnamon – Infuses the cozy, warm flavor of cinnamon rolls; feel free to adjust to your taste preference.
• Salt – Just a pinch is enough to enhance all the sweet and spicy flavors.
For the Wet Mixture
• Large Egg – Acts as a binding agent, but a flax egg can be a great vegan alternative.
• Milk – Provides moisture; use dairy or any non-dairy option for versatility.
• Maple Syrup or Honey – Sweetness with a depth of flavor; genuine maple syrup is highly recommended, but honey works too.
• Melted Butter or Coconut Oil – Adds necessary moisture and flavor; feel free to interchange based on your preference.
• Vanilla Extract – A drizzle of pure vanilla enhances aroma; imitation can be used in a pinch.
For the Swirl
• Melted Butter or Coconut Oil – Choose based on preference for flavor richness in the swirl.
• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and caramelization for that signature swirl; light or dark can be used depending on taste.
These Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Squares are not just easy to prepare; they embody the cozy warmth of a homestyle breakfast that your whole family will adore!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Squares
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures the Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Squares bake evenly, resulting in a soft, chewy texture. While the oven heats, prepare your baking pan by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of rolled oats, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir these dry ingredients together until well mixed, ensuring the baking powder is evenly distributed. You want to see the rich, warm color of the cinnamon blending beautifully with the oats.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 large egg, 1 ½ cups of milk, ⅓ cup of maple syrup or honey, ¼ cup of melted butter or coconut oil, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until smooth, allowing the mixture to froth slightly as air incorporates. This is where the cozy flavor of your Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Squares begins to come together.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gently pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a spatula, stir until just combined, about 15 seconds. Be careful not to overmix; you want the ingredients to meld without losing their texture. The resulting mixture should appear moist and fragrant, ready for baking.
Step 5: Prepare Swirl Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of melted butter or coconut oil, ¼ cup of brown sugar, and an additional teaspoon of cinnamon until combined. This rich swirl mixture adds a delightful sweetness and cinnamon flavor to your finished squares, so ensure it’s well blended without clumps.
Step 6: Layer the Mixtures
Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Then, drizzle the swirl mixture over the top. Using a butter knife, gently swirl the mixture into the oatmeal, creating a marbled effect that will turn into delightful pockets of flavor as it bakes.
Step 7: Bake the Oatmeal Squares
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs attached. Your kitchen will fill with the enticing aroma of cinnamon as the squares bake to a perfect golden hue.
Step 8: Cool and Cut
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This allows the squares to set, making them easier to cut. After cooling, slice into squares and serve warm, perhaps with an extra drizzle of maple syrup or honey to enhance the cozy experience of your Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Squares.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Squares are fantastic for meal prep, making your busy mornings so much easier! You can prepare the dry mixture (oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt) up to 3 days in advance by sealing it in an airtight container. For extra convenience, mix the wet ingredients and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the wet and dry mixtures, prepare the swirl, and bake as directed. For quality, store finished squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for a week. Reheat in the microwave for a cozy breakfast that tastes just as delicious!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Squares
Enjoy these cozy squares alongside these delightful pairings that elevate your breakfast experience.
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Fresh Fruit Medley: A colorful array of berries and sliced bananas adds a refreshing contrast to the warm oatmeal squares. The natural sweetness and juicy texture enhance the flavor profile perfectly.
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Greek Yogurt: Creamy and rich, yogurt provides a lovely tanginess that complements the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls—plus, it adds a protein boost to your morning!
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A little extra sweetness never hurts! Drizzling warm maple syrup on top enhances the cozy vibe of your breakfast, making each bite even more indulgent.
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Nut Butters: Spread almond or peanut butter on your oatmeal squares for added richness and depth. The nutty flavor pairs beautifully with cinnamon and brings a delightful creaminess to each bite.
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Spiced Chai Latte: Sip on a warm spiced chai latte while enjoying your breakfast. The aromatic spices in the chai harmonize with the cinnamon in the squares, creating a comforting experience.
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Cinnamon-Spiced Apples: Serve warm, sautéed apples coated in cinnamon alongside the oatmeal squares. Their sweet and slightly tart flavor adds an irresistible twist to your meal.
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Chai Tea: Opt for a cup of steaming chai tea that mirrors the warm spices in your oatmeal squares. Both elements together create a balanced and comforting breakfast experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: For a fun twist, serve these oatmeal squares warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The cold creaminess against the warmth of the squares is simply divine!
Helpful Tricks for Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Squares
• Choose Quality Oats: Always select old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture; instant or steel-cut will yield poor results.
• Swirl Technique: When mixing your swirl, do so just enough to mingle the ingredients; over-mixing can lead to an uneven flavor throughout your oats.
• Fresh Baking Powder: Don’t forget to check if your baking powder is fresh; this ensures that your squares rise properly and have a delightful, fluffy texture.
• Testing for Doneness: Use a toothpick for doneness; it should come out mostly clean. A few moist crumbs are fine, but wet batter indicates more baking time needed.
• Customize Wisely: Feel free to add in your favorite ingredients like nuts or fruits, but start small—too many add-ins can affect the structure of your cinnamon roll baked oatmeal squares.
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Squares
Room Temperature: Store these delicious oatmeal squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft texture.
Fridge: For extended freshness, refrigerate the squares in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Reheat individually in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds until warm.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap the squares individually in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months—making these cozy treats ready whenever you need a quick breakfast!
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or microwave straight from frozen for about 1 minute or until heated through.
Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists, making this cozy breakfast even more personal and delicious!
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Vegan Option: Substitute the egg with a flax egg and use almond milk for a delightful dairy-free alternative.
This version keeps the same heartwarming flavors while accommodating plant-based diets. -
Sugar Swap: Use agave nectar or brown sugar for an alternative sweetness that matches your preference.
Experimenting with different sugars can impart unique flavors that really enhance your squares! -
Spice It Up: Add nutmeg or ginger alongside the cinnamon for a spicier twist on your traditional recipe.
These warm spices can elevate the cozy aura and enhance the holiday feel any time of the year. -
Fruit Add-ins: Toss in some fresh or dried fruits such as apples, raisins, or cranberries for added sweetness and nutrition.
This is a great way to sneak in a serving of fruit while adding a delightful chewiness to each bite! -
Nuts and Seeds: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and healthy fats.
Not only will this add a lovely texture, but the added nutty flavor complements the cinnamon perfectly. -
Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips for a sweet surprise that transforms your breakfast treat into a dessert-like delight.
Pairing chocolate with cinnamon is a match made in heaven—perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings! -
Extra Swirl: Increase the amount of cinnamon swirl by doubling the swirl ingredients for a richer flavor experience.
You can never go wrong with a bit more of that delicious cinnamon goodness swirled throughout!
For more tips on how to customize your baking adventures, don’t miss the storage tips so you’ll always have some on hand!
Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Squares Recipe FAQs
What type of oats should I use for the best texture?
Absolutely! For the best results, always opt for old-fashioned rolled oats. They provide the ideal structure and chewiness you want in your Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Squares. Avoid using instant or steel-cut oats, as they won’t hold up well during baking.
How should I store the oatmeal squares to maintain freshness?
I recommend storing your Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to 1 week. Just remember to reheat them in the microwave for a cozy treat whenever you fancy!
Can I freeze these oatmeal squares for later use?
Yes, you can freeze these delicious oatmeal squares! Individually wrap each square in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or microwave straight from frozen for about 1 minute or until heated through.
What should I do if my oatmeal squares don’t cook evenly?
If your Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Squares don’t seem to cook evenly, ensure your oven is correctly preheated to 350°F (175°C) before baking. Additionally, it’s important to check the freshness of your baking powder—using old or expired baking powder can lead to poor rising. Finally, for an even bake, make sure to spread the mixture evenly in the pan and use the toothpick test to accurately check for doneness.
Can I make these oatmeal squares vegan?
Absolutely! You can make your Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Squares vegan by substituting the large egg with a flax egg. To create a flax egg, simply mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. Also, be sure to use plant-based milk and coconut oil instead of dairy to keep it vegan-friendly.
Cinnamon Roll Baked Oatmeal Squares for Cozy Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking pan by greasing or lining it.
- In a bowl, combine rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt; stir until mixed.
- In another bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, maple syrup or honey, melted butter or coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gently pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter or coconut oil, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the swirl.
- Pour the oatmeal mixture into the baking pan; drizzle and swirl in the swirl mixture.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, testing with a toothpick to check for doneness.
- Allow to cool for 10 minutes, slice into squares, and serve warm.
