Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal Recipe

If you love the comforting flavors of a freshly baked cinnamon roll but want a warm, wholesome breakfast that’s faster and a bit lighter, this Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal is going to become your new favorite morning treat. Combining hearty oats with the sweet, spicy essence of cinnamon and a luscious vanilla glaze, this recipe captures all the joy of a cinnamon roll but in a cozy, bowl-friendly form. It’s a breakfast that feels indulgent but is packed with good stuff to keep you energized and satisfied through the day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal shines because of its simple, familiar ingredients that work together to create layers of flavor and texture. Each one contributes something special, whether it’s the creamy oats, warm spice, or the rich almond butter that adds a smooth, nutty undertone.

• Old fashioned oats: These bring a chewy texture and hearty base that stands up well in baking.
• Instant oats: Adding these helps the oatmeal meld together perfectly without becoming too dense.
• Brown sugar: Provides natural sweetness and a hint of molasses that deepens the flavor.
• Ground cinnamon: The star spice that mimics the cinnamon roll experience with its warm, aromatic punch.
• Baking powder: Gives the oatmeal a lovely lift and fluffiness as it bakes.
• Eggs: Act as the binder to hold everything together beautifully.
• Milk: Adds creaminess and moisture, making the oatmeal tender inside.
• Vanilla extract: A little goes a long way in enhancing sweetness and rounding out the flavors.
• Almond butter: Adds richness and a subtle nutty flavor that feels decadent but wholesome.
• Unsalted butter (for glaze): Gives the glaze a silky texture and buttery note.
• Powdered sugar (for glaze): Ensures the topping is smooth and sweet, perfect for drizzling.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oats

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lining an 8×8 baking dish with parchment paper—this makes cleanup a breeze and helps your oatmeal come out perfectly intact. Combine your old fashioned oats, instant oats, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and baking powder in a medium bowl, mixing until everything is evenly distributed. This dry mixture sets the stage for all those delightful cinnamon roll flavors.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a smaller bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and almond butter until smooth and creamy. The almond butter adds a luscious texture that infuses the oatmeal with gentle nuttiness—a twist that balances the warm cinnamon beautifully.

Step 3: Combine and Bake

Pour the wet ingredients into the oat mixture and stir until just combined. Then, transfer this batter into your prepared baking dish, smoothing the surface gently. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking process transforms this simple mix into a golden, comforting dish that smells like a bakery in your kitchen.

Step 4: Whip up the Glaze

While your oatmeal bakes, whisk together melted unsalted butter, vanilla, milk, and powdered sugar in a small bowl. This glaze is the final touch that mimics the signature swirl of a cinnamon roll, adding a sweet, creamy finish with every drizzle.

Step 5: Glaze and Serve

Once your oatmeal is out of the oven, give it five minutes to cool slightly so the glaze won’t just slide off. Then generously drizzle the glaze over the top. Serve it warm for the best gooey, comforting experience. This Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal is a cozy hug in a bowl!

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal

Garnishes

Adding a few select garnishes can elevate your Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal into something truly special. Consider a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for a bit of crunch, or a few plump raisins or dried cranberries for bursts of sweetness that contrast with the warm cinnamon perfectly. A light sprinkle of extra cinnamon on top can also add a lovely aroma as you dig in.

Side Dishes

This oatmeal pairs beautifully with fresh fruit like sliced bananas or berries for a refreshing counterpoint. A dollop of Greek yogurt on the side adds creaminess and protein, making your breakfast even more satisfying. For a breakfast that feels like a real treat, a cup of rich coffee or chai tea complements those cinnamon-spiced notes effortlessly.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving this Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal for guests or want to make it extra special, try baking it in individual ramekins for personalized portions. Drizzle the glaze before serving so each person can admire the glossy finish. You could also top with a swirl of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent brunch twist any time of year.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. This makes it easy to prep ahead and enjoy a quick, satisfying breakfast on busy mornings without starting from scratch every time.

Freezing

If you want to extend its shelf life, you can freeze portions of this baked oatmeal. Cut it into squares, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for breakfast ready in minutes.

Reheating

Reheat your Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. A quick zap in the microwave for 30-60 seconds usually does the trick. You can add a splash of milk to keep it moist during reheating and a fresh drizzle of glaze or a pat of butter to revive that just-baked feel.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use almond milk or any other plant-based milk in place of regular milk, and swap unsalted butter for a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil in the glaze. The texture will stay just as delicious, and you’ll still get that cozy cinnamon roll flavor.

What’s the best type of oats to use?

A mix of old fashioned and instant oats works perfectly here. Old fashioned oats add chewiness and substance, while instant oats help the oatmeal bind together for a tender texture. Using all one type might change the consistency slightly, but feel free to experiment based on what you have.

Can I add fruit or nuts to the batter?

Yes, you can! Chopped apples, raisins, or chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts complement the cinnamon flavor beautifully. Just fold them in gently before baking to distribute evenly and add extra texture and flavor.

Is this Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal gluten-free?

Oats themselves are naturally gluten-free, but sometimes they’re processed in facilities that handle wheat. Look for certified gluten-free oats if you need to avoid gluten safely. The other ingredients here are naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

With a few easy swaps, yes! Replace eggs with flax eggs or mashed banana, use plant-based milk, and choose a vegan butter alternative for the glaze. The almond butter helps keep the richness, making a vegan version just as satisfying.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting about Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal that makes weekday mornings feel special without hours in the kitchen. This recipe combines familiar flavors you love into a wholesome, easy-to-make dish that satisfies the soul and the appetite. Give it a try and I promise you’ll smile as you dig into each warm, cinnamon-spiced bite.

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