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Indulge in the cozy flavors of carrot cake with this wholesome Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal. Packed with grated carrots, warm spices, and a creamy yogurt frosting, this recipe is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast. It’s easy to make, gluten-free, and perfect for meal prep!
I first discovered this recipe on a chilly autumn morning when I craved something warm and comforting. The aroma of cinnamon and baked carrots filled my kitchen, and I knew I had found a new favorite. Now, it’s a staple in my home, and I’m excited to share it with you!
Get ready to cook up a batch of this delicious Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal. It’s a treat that’s as nutritious as it is tasty!
What to Expect
- Time: Approximately 45 minutes (including prep and baking)
- Difficulty: Easy
Before You Begin
Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have all your ingredients measured and ready. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8×8 baking dish with olive oil. This will ensure your Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal doesn’t stick and bakes evenly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ripe bananas | 2 |
| Medium/large carrots (grated) | 2 |
| Oats | 1.5 cups |
| Vanilla protein powder | 2 scoops |
| Milk of choice | 1.5 cups |
| Pecans or walnuts (crushed + more for topping, any nut will work) | 1/4 cup |
| Raisins | 1/4 cup |
| Cinnamon | 1 tsp |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp |
| Sea salt | 1 pinch |
| Frosting (optional) | |
| Yogurt (can be vegan) | 1/2 cup |
| Cream cheese (can be vegan) | 2 tbsp |
| Honey (or maple syrup) | 1 tbsp |
Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly coat an 8×8 baking dish with olive oil.
- Add the ripe bananas to the baking dish and mash them with a fork until smooth.
- Stir in the grated carrots, oats, vanilla protein powder, milk, crushed pecans or walnuts, raisins, cinnamon, baking powder, and a pinch of sea salt. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until the top is slightly golden and the oatmeal is set.
- Allow the Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal to cool for a few minutes.
- While it cools, prepare the optional frosting by mixing together the yogurt, cream cheese, and honey (or maple syrup) until smooth.
- Spread the frosting evenly over the top of the baked oatmeal.
- Optionally, sprinkle additional crushed nuts on top for extra crunch.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy your delicious Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal!
Pointers for Perfection & How to Store
For the best results, make sure your bananas are ripe—they add natural sweetness and moisture to the dish. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans or walnuts. This Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick and satisfying breakfast.
For another delicious gluten-free recipe, check out this Gluten Free Carrot Cake Recipe.
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Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal: Gluten & Dairy Free
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Have cake for breakfast with this healthy Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal. Packed with shredded carrots, warm spices, and wholesome gluten-free oats, it is a nutritious start to the day that tastes like a dessert. This recipe is naturally sweetened, gluten-free, and dairy-free, making it perfect for meal prep or a cozy weekend brunch.
Ingredients
— Dry Ingredients —
2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats (ensure certified gluten-free)
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
½ teaspoon sea salt
— Wet Ingredients —
1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (or any dairy-free milk)
⅓ cup pure maple syrup
1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan)
2 tablespoons melted coconut oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
— Mix-ins —
¾ cup freshly grated carrots
⅓ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
¼ cup raisins (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×9 inch baking dish or pie plate with coconut oil or cooking spray.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Stir well.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the almond milk, maple syrup, egg, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Combine: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir to combine thoroughly.
5. Add Mix-ins: Fold in the grated carrots, chopped nuts, and raisins (if using).
6. Bake: Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
7. Serve: Allow to cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of dairy-free yogurt.
Notes
Oats: It is crucial to use ‘Rolled Oats’ or ‘Old Fashioned Oats’ for the best texture. Quick oats may become too mushy.
Vegan Option: To make this vegan, swap the egg for a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water, let sit for 5 mins).
Frosting Idea: For a true carrot cake experience, top with a mixture of dairy-free cream cheese and a little maple syrup.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 40
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 14
- Sodium: 210
- Fat: 9
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 36
- Fiber: 5
- Protein: 6
- Cholesterol: 31
Your Burning Questions Answered!
- Can I make this recipe vegan?
- Yes! Use vegan milk, vegan protein powder, vegan yogurt, vegan cream cheese, and maple syrup instead of honey.
- Can I substitute the protein powder?
- If you don’t have protein powder, you can replace it with an additional 1/4 cup of oats or almond flour.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Dig In & Enjoy!
This Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal is a delightful way to start your day or enjoy as a healthy dessert. It’s packed with nutrients, easy to customize, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or treating yourself to a cozy breakfast, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
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