Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal (Cinnamon Streusel)

If you’re craving a cozy breakfast that feels like a warm hug, look no further than this Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal (Cinnamon Streusel). It captures the nostalgic charm of coffee cake with comforting cinnamon and nutmeg spices, all baked together with wholesome oats and topped with a crunchy pecan-streusel that makes every bite a delight. This version is naturally gluten-free and vegan, proving that wholesome deliciousness can be simple and nourishing without missing out on flavor or texture.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal (Cinnamon Streusel) plays a crucial role in balancing flavor, texture, and color to make your morning special. The combination of ripe banana and non-dairy milk brings natural sweetness and creaminess, while the oats and pecans add that hearty, crunchy texture we all crave.

• 1 medium ripe banana: Acts as a natural binder and sweetener, giving moistness without eggs.
• 2 cups non-dairy milk: Provides the perfect dairy-free creaminess and helps hydrate the oats.
• ¼ cup maple syrup: Adds a subtle, rich sweetness with a hint of caramel flavor.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall aroma and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
• 2 ½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats: The hearty base of the oatmeal, offering chewiness and structure.
• ½ tsp baking powder: Gives a slight lift to make the texture light and tender.
• 1 tsp cinnamon: Brings that classic coffee cake warmth and spice.
• ¼ tsp nutmeg: Adds depth and a cozy, aromatic note.
• ¼ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
• ½ cup whole pecans (for streusel): Provides a buttery crunch and nutty flavor in the topping.
• ¼ cup old-fashioned rolled oats (for streusel): Adds texture to the crumbly topping.
• ⅓ cup brown sugar: Sweetens the streusel with a hint of molasses richness.
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps bind the streusel components for that perfect crumb.
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon (for streusel): Infuses the topping with extra spice.
• 4 tbsp melted coconut oil: Adds moisture and a slight tropical richness to the streusel.

How to Make Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal (Cinnamon Streusel)

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and greasing an 8×8 baking dish. This sets the stage so your baked oatmeal doesn’t stick and bakes evenly, creating that lovely golden crust we all love.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Mash the ripe banana in a large mixing bowl until smooth with a few lumps for texture. Then whisk in the non-dairy milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. These wet ingredients together bring sweetness, moisture, and flavor that will gently soak into the oats as they bake.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

To the banana mixture, add the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir everything together with a wooden spoon or spatula until fully combined. This step is where the hearty oats meet warming spices to form the comforting base of your baked oatmeal.

Step 4: Prepare the Pecan Oat Streusel

Place the pecans and oats in a high-speed blender or food processor and pulse until you achieve a coarse meal—think the texture of wet sand. Transfer this to a bowl, then stir in the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and melted coconut oil. This mixture is your streusel topping, adding irresistible crunch and sweetness on top of the soft oatmeal.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Pour the oatmeal mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the streusel generously over the top—you can even save a little extra for a crunchier finish if you like. Bake for 28 to 30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the oatmeal feels firm and no longer jiggles when you gently shake the pan.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the baked oatmeal cool for at least 5 minutes before cutting it into nine even portions. This helps it set nicely and makes serving easier, while allowing those warm flavors to meld beautifully.

How to Serve Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal (Cinnamon Streusel)

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top will enhance both the appearance and texture, making your Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal (Cinnamon Streusel) look as inviting as it tastes. A drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of plant-based yogurt can also add extra creaminess and sweetness.

Side Dishes

Pair this baked oatmeal with a side of fresh berries or sliced fruit for a refreshing contrast. A hot cup of coffee or chai tea complements the cinnamon-spiced flavors perfectly and rounds out the breakfast experience in the coziest way imaginable.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the oatmeal warm topped with a spoonful of nut butter or a splash of warmed non-dairy milk for a silky finish. You can also portion it into small mason jars for a grab-and-go breakfast option that looks as charming as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover any leftover Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal (Cinnamon Streusel) tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it an ideal weekday breakfast solution.

Freezing

This baked oatmeal freezes beautifully! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge or gently warm from frozen.

Reheating

Reheat your portions in the microwave for 30 to 60 seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 325°F until heated through. A splash of non-dairy milk while reheating adds moisture and freshness to each serving, making every bite feel freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of non-dairy milk?

Absolutely! Regular milk works just as well in this recipe if you’re not avoiding dairy. It will add a touch of creaminess that complements the oats beautifully.

Is this Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal (Cinnamon Streusel) gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free rolled oats, this dish is naturally gluten-free and perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I substitute the banana with something else?

The banana acts as a natural binder and sweetener, but you can try unsweetened applesauce or pumpkin puree as alternatives while keeping the texture moist and tender.

How do I make the streusel nut-free?

Simply replace pecans with sunflower seeds or omit the nuts altogether and increase the oats slightly for a similarly crunchy topping that’s nut-free.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time and bake it in the morning?

Definitely! You can prepare the mixture the night before, cover it, and bake fresh in the morning. This saves time and fills your kitchen with cozy aromas as you wake up.

Final Thoughts

This Coffee Cake Baked Oatmeal (Cinnamon Streusel) has become a beloved staple for easy mornings when you want all the comfort of coffee cake with the wholesome goodness of oats. Its natural sweetness, warming spices, and crunchy topping come together to make breakfast feel special every day. I truly encourage you to whip up a batch and enjoy the heartwarming goodness yourself — it’s one breakfast treat you’ll want to come back to again and again.

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