If you’ve ever wished you could eat dessert for breakfast without a shred of guilt, Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal: Cozy & Healthy Breakfast is here to make your mornings magical. This comforting recipe brings together everything you love about a classic Southern pecan pie—think buttery pecans, caramel sweetness, and a touch of spice—but transforms it into a nourishing, whole-grain dish that’s as filling as it is delightful. Whether you’re looking for a make-ahead breakfast, a delightful brunch centerpiece, or simply a way to cozy up on a chilly morning, this Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal: Cozy & Healthy Breakfast will quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s something so satisfying about knowing exactly what’s going into your breakfast, and this recipe keeps things refreshingly straightforward. Each ingredient has been chosen to bring out the best in flavor, texture, and nutrition, making every bite special in its own right.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: Deliver that hearty, classic oatmeal texture, perfect for soaking up all the delicious flavors.
- Baking powder: Just a touch gives the oatmeal a little lift and fluffiness.
- Cinnamon: Adds a cozy, warm spice that ties everything together like a hug.
- Salt: Enhances and balances the sweetness, making each spoonful pop.
- Milk (dairy or non-dairy): Creates a creamy custard base; feel free to use your favorite milk alternative.
- Pure maple syrup: Infuses natural sweetness with those irresistible caramel and vanilla notes.
- Unsweetened applesauce: Brings moisture and just a hint of fruity tang—plus it helps reduce the need for extra fat.
- Large egg: Binds everything together for that tender, sliceable texture.
- Vanilla extract: Deepens the overall flavor and brings out the pecan pie vibes.
- Chopped pecans: The main event—nutty, buttery, and crisp after baking!
- Brown sugar (for topping): Creates that beautiful, caramelized pecan pie finish on top of the oatmeal.
- Melted butter or coconut oil (optional, for topping): Adds extra richness and helps the topping get golden and irresistible.
How to Make Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal: Cozy & Healthy Breakfast
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing an 8×8-inch baking dish. This simple prep step ensures your Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal: Cozy & Healthy Breakfast slides out easily and bakes up with crisp, golden edges.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Mixing your dry ingredients first helps the cinnamon and baking powder distribute evenly, so every bite has balanced flavor and the perfect fluffy texture.
Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, maple syrup, applesauce, egg, and vanilla extract until totally smooth. This custard-like mixture will soak into the oats, giving your Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal: Cozy & Healthy Breakfast its irresistible creaminess and rich flavor.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet ingredients over the dry oat mixture and stir until everything is well combined. Gently fold in the chopped pecans, making sure they’re evenly distributed for crunchy pecan goodness in every square.
Step 5: Topping and Bake
Transfer the oat mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar with the melted butter or coconut oil, then sprinkle it all over the top. This step delivers that classic pecan pie finish—crunchy, caramelized, and oh-so-satisfying. Slide the dish into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is just set and the top is golden brown.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once the oatmeal is baked, let it cool for at least 10 minutes. This helps it firm up so you get perfect slices. Now it’s time to dig into your Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal: Cozy & Healthy Breakfast! Serve warm for ultimate comfort.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal: Cozy & Healthy Breakfast
Garnishes
You can never go wrong with a splash of cold milk poured over the top or a generous dollop of Greek yogurt or coconut cream for added richness. A sprinkle of extra chopped pecans and maybe a drizzle of maple syrup make the experience even more delightful—it’s all about those little special touches.
Side Dishes
Pair your Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal: Cozy & Healthy Breakfast with a fresh fruit salad, an energizing smoothie, or scrambled eggs for a balanced morning meal. This oatmeal plays well with anything you’d serve at a brunch, offering that perfect sweet note alongside savory options.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the oatmeal into squares and serve individually on plates, wrap them up for an on-the-go treat, or even layer them into parfait glasses with yogurt and fruit for a stunning brunch table centerpiece. You’ll love how effortlessly this wholesome breakfast doubles as a showstopper!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
One of the best things about Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal: Cozy & Healthy Breakfast is how well it keeps! Simply cover the baked squares or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. They’ll stay moist and delicious, ready for busy mornings or relaxed snacks.
Freezing
If you want to prep further ahead, this oatmeal is freezer-friendly. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap squares in plastic wrap or bake-proof containers. Freeze for up to 2 months, and thaw overnight in the fridge for best results—making cozy, healthy breakfasts just minutes away, any day of the week.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pop a portion into the microwave for 30-60 seconds or warm through in the oven at 325°F until heated. Add a splash of milk to bring back that just-baked creaminess, and your Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal: Cozy & Healthy Breakfast will taste as inviting as day one.
FAQs
Can I make this oatmeal vegan?
Absolutely! Just use a flax egg and your favorite non-dairy milk. Swap the melted butter for coconut oil in the topping, and you’ve got a plant-based version of Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal: Cozy & Healthy Breakfast that everyone can enjoy.
Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
It’s best to use old-fashioned rolled oats for the ideal texture, but quick oats will work in a pinch. Just know the baked oatmeal might be slightly softer and less chewy if you make the swap.
How sweet is this recipe?
The sweetness level is perfectly balanced to evoke classic pecan pie flavor without becoming a sugar bomb. If you prefer things less sweet, feel free to reduce the maple syrup or brown sugar topping to suit your taste.
Does this freeze well in portions?
Definitely! In fact, dividing Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal: Cozy & Healthy Breakfast into single-serve squares before freezing makes it super convenient for meal prep. Just grab what you need and reheat for a quick, cozy morning.
What’s the best way to serve leftovers?
Leftovers are amazing reheated with a splash of milk or a quick spoonful of yogurt. They’re also incredibly tasty cold—perfect for breakfast on the run or a hearty snack later on.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a breakfast that brings warmth, comfort, and a kiss of indulgence to the start of your day, you can’t go wrong with Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal: Cozy & Healthy Breakfast. Gather your ingredients, invite the family to the table, and watch this cozy classic become a fast favorite. Happy breakfasting!
Print
Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal: Cozy & Healthy Breakfast Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the cozy flavors of pecan pie with this healthy twist on baked oatmeal. Perfect for a make-ahead breakfast, this dish is packed with wholesome ingredients and a delightful pecan pie topping.
Ingredients
For the oatmeal:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 3/4 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
For the topping:
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon melted butter or coconut oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- Whisk wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, maple syrup, applesauce, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir to combine. Fold in chopped pecans.
- Prepare the dish: Pour the mixture into the baking dish and spread evenly.
- Add topping: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar with melted butter or coconut oil, then sprinkle over the top.
- Bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes until the center is set and the top is golden.
- Cool and serve: Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Serve warm with milk or yogurt.
- Keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- To make it vegan, use a flax egg and plant-based milk.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
