Name: Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491831H27M30S
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (nonfat or low-fat); 2 cups almond milk (or any milk of choice); ⅓ cup maple syrup or honey; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 large eggs (room temperature); 2 ¼ cups old-fashioned oats; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; 1 ½ cups finely grated carrots (loosely packed); ½ cup raisins or chopped dates (optional); ½ cup roughly chopped pecans or walnuts (optional); ¼ cup lite cream cheese (softened at room temperature); 1 ½ Tbsp maple syrup; ¼ tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

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There is something truly comforting about a warm, wholesome breakfast that feels like dessert, and this Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal Recipe nails that perfect balance. Imagine waking up to the cozy aromas of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger mingling with the natural sweetness of grated carrots and maple syrup, all combined into a hearty baked oatmeal that’s both nourishing and indulgently flavorful. It’s a fantastic way to start your day with a burst of energy and joy, and the best part is how simple it is to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy mornings or meal prep enthusiasts.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl holds six separate layers of ingredients arranged side by side: grated orange carrots on the top left, chopped pecans on the top right, small dark brown chopped dates on the bottom right, light brown oats on the bottom left, white granulated sugar above the oats, and cinnamon powder mixed with another brown spice in the center. Above the bowl to the left, part of a white dish filled with a creamy yellow mixture and a wooden spoon is visible. In the top right corner, there is a small white bowl filled with more chopped pecans, with some scattered on the white marbled surface around it. A dark gray cloth lies in the bottom left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal Recipe relies on simple, staple ingredients that each bring their own magic to the table. From creamy Greek yogurt that adds tang and moisture, to warm spices that create that classic carrot cake essence, every ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect texture, taste, and color.

1 cup plain Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and protein while keeping the dish moist.
2 cups almond milk: Provides a dairy-free liquid base that lightens the oats.
⅓ cup maple syrup or honey: Natural sweetness that complements the carrots beautifully.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor depth with a warm, inviting aroma.
2 large eggs (room temperature): Helps bind the ingredients and gives structure.
2 ¼ cups old-fashioned oats: The hearty base that makes this baked oatmeal wholesome and filling.
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Brings a comforting, classic spice note.
1 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a gentle kick and brightness to the spice mix.
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Offers warmth and richness, elevating the carrot cake vibe.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Ensures lightness and a perfect rise.
½ teaspoon kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
1 ½ cups finely grated carrots: The star ingredient adds natural sweetness, moisture, and vibrant color.
½ cup raisins or chopped dates (optional): Adds bursts of chewy sweetness.
½ cup roughly chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): Provides crunch and a toasty flavor contrast.
¼ cup lite cream cheese (softened): For an optional luscious frosting to top the oatmeal squares.
1 ½ tablespoons maple syrup: Sweetener for the cream cheese glaze.
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract: Flavor boost for the cream cheese topping.
Pinch of salt: Enhances the cream cheese frosting’s flavors.

How to Make Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375℉ to get the perfect baking temperature ready. Then, lightly mist a 9×13-inch casserole dish with oil spray—this prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier while ensuring the baked oatmeal holds together nicely.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Add the Greek yogurt, almond milk, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, and eggs straight to the casserole dish. Crack the eggs directly in, then whisk them lightly with a fork to break the yolks before stirring everything together. Don’t worry if a few lumps of yogurt remain—they add a lovely texture to the final bake.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Next, add oats, cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg, baking powder, kosher salt, grated carrots, and your choice of raisins, dates, or nuts if using. Stir everything together in the dish until it’s evenly combined. You’ll see the vibrant orange from the carrots and aroma of the spices mixing magically at this stage.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Pop the casserole dish into the preheated oven and bake for around 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top looks set and golden brown, the oatmeal feels firm to the touch, and your kitchen is filled with that irresistible carrot cake scent.

Step 5: Let It Cool and Add Finishing Touches

Once out of the oven, allow the baked oatmeal to cool for about 10 minutes so it can firm up a bit more. Slice into six squares and, if you’d like to get a little fancy, top each piece with a spoonful of cream cheese frosting. For the smoothest glaze, mix softened cream cheese with maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until creamy. Alternatively, a dollop of vanilla-flavored Greek yogurt is a delicious, lighter topping option.

How to Serve Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal Recipe

The image shows a white rectangular baking dish filled with a mixture that looks like a batter with small pieces of orange carrot shreds and bits of nuts throughout, creating a textured, speckled light brown surface. The mixture is spread evenly to fill the dish, with slightly visible oats and small dark nut pieces scattered inside. Around the dish, there are two white bowls containing more chopped nuts, placed on a white marbled textured surface. A dark gray cloth is partly visible at the bottom left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The magic of this Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal Recipe shines brightest with a splash of toppings. Cream cheese frosting adds richness and a bit of classic cake indulgence but fresh fruits like sliced banana or a sprinkle of chopped nuts can bring added freshness and crunch. A drizzle of extra maple syrup can also heighten the sweetness without being overpowering.

Side Dishes

Pair this warm oatmeal with a refreshing cup of herbal tea or a tall glass of freshly squeezed orange juice for a perfect breakfast boost. Some cozy mornings call for a side of mixed berries or a simple green smoothie, giving you a colorful, nutrient-packed plate that feels indulgent yet balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try layering chunks of the Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal Recipe in a glass parfait with layers of yogurt and fresh fruit for a grab-and-go breakfast. Serving it with a dollop of whipped coconut cream or topping with toasted coconut flakes provides an exciting variety in texture. If you’re entertaining, cut the oatmeal into bite-size squares and serve on a platter with assorted nuts and dried fruits for a sweet-brunch vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal Recipe keeps extremely well in the fridge for up to 5 days. Simply store the baked and cooled oatmeal in an airtight container to preserve its moist, tender texture. This makes it a brilliant option for meal prepping your breakfasts for the week ahead.

Freezing

If you want to save it for later, you can freeze individual squares in a zip-top bag or freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just make sure to separate the pieces with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready for a quick breakfast, thaw overnight in the fridge or pop straight into the microwave.

Reheating

To revive stored oatmeal, heat a portion in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds or place it in a preheated oven at 350℉ for 10 minutes until warmed through. Add your favorite toppings after reheating, and you’ll have a comforting, nourishing breakfast any day of the week.

FAQs

Can I use rolled oats instead of old-fashioned oats?

Old-fashioned oats and rolled oats are actually the same thing, so yes, using rolled oats will work perfectly for this recipe. Avoid instant oats, as they may make the bake too mushy.

Is it possible to make this Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal Recipe vegan?

You can substitute the eggs with flax or chia eggs and use a plant-based yogurt to make a vegan version. Keep in mind the texture might be slightly different, but it will still taste delicious.

What can I use if I don’t have maple syrup or honey?

Brown rice syrup, agave nectar, or even molasses can work as alternatives, though they’ll slightly change the flavor. Choose one that you enjoy to keep the sweet balance just right.

Can I add other vegetables to this baked oatmeal?

While carrots provide the best texture and taste for this recipe, you could experiment with grated zucchini or sweet potato for a different twist. Just be mindful of moisture adjustments if you do.

How nutty is the texture if I omit the nuts?

Omitting nuts makes the Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal Recipe less crunchy but still beautifully tender and moist. You can add extra raisins or seeds like pumpkin or sunflower to keep some texture without the nuts.

Final Thoughts

This Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal Recipe is one of those warm, cozy dishes that feel like a hug in food form. It’s easy to make, packed with wholesome ingredients, and wonderfully versatile for any morning. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or indulging on a lazy weekend, this recipe is sure to bring a smile to your face and brighten your mornings. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a breakfast favorite you’ll turn to again and again.