Cinnamon Sugar Oat Breakfast Bake

Cinnamon Sugar Oat Breakfast Bake is a cozy, oven-baked breakfast that feels like cinnamon toast transformed into a soft, sliceable dish you can enjoy slowly and mindfully. With a lightly crisp cinnamon-sugar top and a tender, comforting oat-filled center, this bake is filling without being heavy and warm without being overwhelming. It’s the kind of recipe made for quiet mornings, meal-prepped breakfasts, and calm starts to the day when you want something nourishing that still tastes like a treat.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups rolled oats
• 2 large eggs
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

Ingredient Notes and Best Choices

Rolled oats work best in this recipe because they soften while still holding structure, creating a creamy but sliceable interior. Avoid instant oats, which can become mushy, and steel-cut oats, which will not cook through properly. Whole milk creates the richest texture, but 2% or plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk also works well. Butter adds warmth and flavor, though melted coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free option. Cinnamon should be fresh and aromatic, as it provides most of the flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a square baking dish thoroughly, making sure to coat the corners to prevent sticking.
2. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until lightly beaten. Add the sugar, milk, and melted butter, whisking until the mixture is smooth and cohesive.
3. Stir in the rolled oats, cinnamon, and baking powder, mixing gently until the oats are evenly coated and the batter looks uniform.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and level the top gently with a spatula so it bakes evenly.
5. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the top is lightly golden and the center feels set when gently pressed.
6. Remove from the oven and allow the bake to rest for at least 10 minutes. This resting time helps the oats firm up so the bake slices cleanly.
7. Slice and serve warm, or cool completely and store for later meals.

Serving Suggestions

This Cinnamon Sugar Oat Breakfast Bake is incredibly versatile and works well in many settings. Serve it warm with a splash of milk or a drizzle of maple syrup for a classic breakfast feel. Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or vanilla yogurt on the side for extra creaminess and protein. Fresh fruit like sliced bananas, apples, or berries pairs beautifully with the cinnamon flavor. For a cozy brunch plate, serve alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit. It also works well as an afternoon snack with coffee or tea, or lightly warmed as a simple dessert with a dollop of whipped cream.

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Sugar Oat Breakfast Bake

This breakfast bake stands out because it delivers comfort without complexity. It tastes indulgent but is made with simple, familiar ingredients. The cinnamon-sugar flavor brings warmth and nostalgia, while the oats provide lasting fullness that keeps you satisfied well into the morning. It’s easy to prepare in one bowl, requires no special equipment, and bakes while you relax. The texture is balanced, with a lightly crisp top and a soft, spoonable interior that becomes perfectly sliceable after resting. It’s also ideal for families, meal prep, and anyone who wants a reliable, calming breakfast option.

Pro Tips for Best Results

Use rolled oats for the best texture and structure. Whisk the wet ingredients thoroughly before adding oats to ensure even sweetness throughout the bake. Let the batter sit for a minute before baking if you want slightly creamier oats. Do not skip the resting time after baking, as this allows the oats to absorb moisture and firm up. If the top browns too quickly, loosely tent with foil for the final minutes of baking. For clean slices, use a sharp knife and wipe between cuts.

Delicious Variations

This recipe is easy to customize depending on your taste and dietary needs.

Add chopped apples or pears for a fruit-filled version that tastes like cinnamon apple oatmeal. Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch. Mix in raisins or dried cranberries for sweetness and texture. Replace half the sugar with brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor. Add a pinch of nutmeg or vanilla extract for extra warmth. Turn it into a banana oat bake by adding one mashed ripe banana and slightly reducing the milk. Make it dairy-free by using plant-based milk and coconut oil. For a protein boost, serve with nut butter or yogurt.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This bake firms up beautifully when chilled, making it easy to grab and reheat. For longer storage, wrap individual slices and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat slices in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds, or warm in a toaster oven at 325°F for about 8 minutes. The bake can also be enjoyed cold straight from the fridge, especially with a splash of milk.

Meal Prep and Make-Ahead Tips

This Cinnamon Sugar Oat Breakfast Bake is ideal for meal prep. Bake it on the weekend, slice into portions, and store in the refrigerator for easy breakfasts all week. It travels well for work or school and reheats quickly without drying out. You can also mix the batter the night before, cover it, and refrigerate overnight, then bake fresh in the morning. If preparing for a crowd, double the recipe and bake in a 9×13-inch dish, increasing the baking time by about 10 minutes.

Texture and Flavor Breakdown

The top of the bake develops a light golden crust where the sugar and cinnamon caramelize gently. Beneath that, the oats soften into a creamy, custard-like texture held together by eggs and milk. The cinnamon flavor is warm and steady rather than overpowering, creating a calm, comforting taste profile. Butter adds richness while keeping the bake from feeling heavy. Each slice holds together cleanly but remains tender and moist.

Health and Nutrition Perspective

This breakfast bake offers a balanced combination of carbohydrates, fats, and protein, making it a satisfying morning option. Oats provide fiber that supports digestion and helps keep you full. Eggs add protein and structure, while milk contributes calcium and richness. The sugar content is moderate, making this a breakfast that feels indulgent without crossing into dessert territory. It’s a great option for those who want something comforting but still nourishing.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Quick oats will work, but the texture will be softer and less structured.

Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar to 1/4 cup without affecting structure, though the flavor will be less sweet.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free rolled oats to make it gluten-free.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute plant-based milk and melted coconut oil or vegan butter.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Use a larger baking dish and increase baking time as needed.

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon Sugar Oat Breakfast Bake is the kind of recipe that brings calm and comfort to your kitchen. It’s simple, dependable, and filled with familiar flavors that feel grounding and warm. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven, reheated on a busy morning, or chilled straight from the fridge, it offers a soothing start to the day. With its cozy cinnamon aroma, soft oat texture, and effortless preparation, this bake is one you’ll return to again and again when you want breakfast to feel gentle, filling, and satisfying.

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