A Blissful Slice of Spring!
Imagine waking up to a warm, comforting slice of carrot cake baked oats, turning your regular morning into a festive spring celebration. This isn’t just any breakfast; it’s a high protein breakfast that’s perfect for meal prep and will leave you feeling satisfied and ready to tackle the day. And let’s not forget, it incorporates that classic carrot cake flavor we all adore!
Meal prepping some baked oats can be a game-changer during those hectic weeks. And what better way to do it than with a recipe that brings the essence of spring right to your table? This carrot cake baked oats recipe is a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition, making it an ideal meal prep breakfast. Plus, it yields four hearty servings, ensuring you have a delightful breakfast ready every morning of the week, no extra thought required.
One of the things I love most about this recipe is its simplicity and convenience. You can make everything in just one dish! Yes, you heard that right. This means less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your delicious creation. To get started, just mix all your dry ingredients, then add the wet ones. Gently combine everything and bake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes. And the cherry on top? A smooth Greek yogurt icing that perfectly complements the spicy, sweet flavors of the baked oatmeal.
Not only is this baked oatmeal a joy to eat, but it’s also a high protein breakfast, making it the perfect start to a busy day. And for those who love a good carrot cake recipe but are looking for a healthier twist, this carrot cake baked oats hits the spot. It’s like having dessert for breakfast, but better because it’s nutritious and refined sugar-free.
So, whether you’re meal prepping for a quick grab-and-go breakfast or simply looking to indulge in the comforting flavors of carrot cake in a healthier way, this carrot cake baked oats recipe is your new go-to. Easy to make, delicious to eat, and perfect for a meal prep breakfast – it’s everything you need to add a little spring to your step!
Macros Per Serving
300 Calories | 30g Carbs | 6g Fat | 31g Protein
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re searching for a delicious and nutritious way to start your day, look no further than this Carrot Cake Baked Oats recipe. Perfect for those who love meal prep breakfast options or simply crave a sweet yet healthy start to their mornings, this dish is sure to impress. Here are some top reasons why you should make this your go-to breakfast choice.
- Effortless Meal Prep: Carrot Cake Baked Oats is the epitome of meal prep convenience. Prepare it once, and you have a ready-to-eat, delicious breakfast for several days. It’s perfect for those busy mornings when you need a quick yet fulfilling meal.
- Nutrient-Rich Start: Packed with the goodness of oats, carrots, and nuts, this baked oatmeal is a nutrient powerhouse. It offers a high protein breakfast, essential for kick-starting your metabolism and keeping you energized throughout the day.
- Naturally Sweetened Delight: With ingredients like carrots and raisins, this baked oatmeal satisfies your sweet tooth naturally. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of a classic carrot cake recipe without the guilt.
- One-Dish Wonder: Say goodbye to a sink full of dishes! This recipe’s one-dish preparation means you spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your meal. It’s an ideal choice for anyone looking to simplify their meal prep routine.
- Customizable to Taste: Whether you prefer a nutty crunch or a fruity twist, you can easily tailor this carrot cake baked oats to fit your preferences. It’s a versatile baked oatmeal recipe that caters to different tastes and dietary needs.
- Seasonally Festive: Embrace the flavors of spring any time of the year with this carrot-infused dish. It’s a delightful way to bring a taste of the season to your breakfast table, making every morning feel like a special occasion.
Whether you’re a meal prep enthusiast, a fan of carrot cake, or simply in need of a high protein breakfast option, Carrot Cake Baked Oats is a fantastic choice. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and deliciously satisfying. Give your mornings a boost of flavor and health with this fabulous baked oatmeal delight!
Key Ingredients for this Baked Oatmeal
To whip up this delightful Carrot Cake Recipe, let’s dive into the key ingredients that make this dish a standout:
- Quick Oats & Oat Flour: These form the hearty base of our baked oats, providing a rich source of fiber and a perfect texture. Quick oats ensure a comforting chewiness, while oat flour offers a smooth consistency, making every bite just right.
- Unflavored Protein Powder: Boost your morning with a protein kick! This ingredient ramps up the nutritional value, making our baked oats not only scrumptious but also a high protein breakfast choice.
- Chia Seeds, Flax Seeds, & Hulled Seeds: A trifecta of seeds! They introduce a lovely crunch and are powerhouses of omega-3 fatty acids, adding both texture and health benefits to your breakfast bowl.
- Cinnamon & Nutmeg: These spices bring the classic carrot cake flavors to life. Cinnamon offers warmth and sweetness, while nutmeg adds a slightly nutty and aromatic touch, making each spoonful a flavor-packed experience.
- Carrot: The star ingredient! Grated carrot adds natural sweetness, moisture, and a vibrant color, embodying the essence of carrot cake in every bite.
- Plant-Based Milk & Egg Whites: These wet ingredients create the perfect batter consistency, ensuring your baked oats are moist and fluffy. Plant-based milk keeps it dairy-free and light, while egg whites add to the protein content without the extra fat.
- Sugar-Free Syrup & Vanilla Extract: For a hint of sweetness without the sugar rush, these ingredients enhance the taste, making your baked oats indulgently healthy.
For the finishing touch:
- Greek Yogurt Icing: Top off your baked oats with a creamy, tangy icing made from non-fat Greek yogurt, sugar-free syrup, vanilla extract, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It’s like frosting on a cake but healthier!
Gathering these ingredients is like assembling a team of superfoods and flavors, each bringing something unique to the table. Together, they create a breakfast that’s not just food, but a mood – uplifting, satisfying, and utterly delicious. So get ready to transform your mornings with a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delightful!
Substitution Options
For those looking to tailor this Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal to their dietary needs or just to shake things up a bit, here are some creative substitution ideas:
- Oats & Oat Flour: Not just limited to quick oats and oat flour, you can use rolled oats for a chewier texture or almond flour for a nuttier, gluten-free alternative.
- Protein Powder: If unflavored protein powder isn’t your thing, try a vanilla or cinnamon-flavored one to enhance the carrot cake vibe. For a dairy-free option, opt for a plant-based protein powder.
- Seeds: Swap chia, flax, or hulled seeds with pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a different crunch and nutritional profile.
- Spices: While cinnamon and nutmeg are classic, feel free to experiment with allspice or ginger for a different kind of warmth and spice.
- Carrot: No carrots? No problem! Zucchini makes a great substitute, adding similar moisture and texture to the baked oats.
- Plant-Based Milk: Any milk will do! Almond, soy, or even cow’s milk can be used depending on your preference and dietary restrictions.
- Egg Whites: For a vegan option, replace egg whites with flax eggs or mashed banana to maintain the binding and moisture.
- Sugar-Free Syrup & Vanilla Extract: Maple syrup or honey can replace sugar-free syrup for a natural sweetness, and almond extract can be a fun twist instead of vanilla.
Mixing and matching these ingredients allows you to customize the Carrot Cake Baked Oats to suit your taste and dietary requirements perfectly. So don’t hesitate to experiment and create your own version of this delightful breakfast treat. After all, the best recipes are the ones that you make your own!
**If there is a sub I haven’t mentioned above, it’s because I have not tested it and can’t speak for how well it would work for this recipe.
Equipment and Tools
For this Carrot Cake Baked Oats, you don’t need any elaborate gadgets to get started! It’s all about simplicity and using what you already have in your kitchen to create a delicious meal prep breakfast. Let’s explore the essentials along with a few alternatives you might consider:
- High-Speed Blender: To make your own oat flour from quick oats, a high-speed blender will do the trick, giving you the finest texture for your baked oatmeal.
- 6×8” Baking Dish: This is the perfect size for making your carrot cake baked oats. It allows for even baking and is just the right size for meal prep portions.
- Mixing Utensils: A sturdy spoon or spatula will help you mix the dry and wet ingredients together, ensuring everything is well combined without overmixing.
- Whisk: For that smooth Greek yogurt icing, a whisk will help you achieve the perfect consistency, free of lumps and full of creaminess.
- Measuring Scale: Accurately measuring your ingredients is key to the perfect baked oatmeal, ensuring each layer of flavor is balanced and delicious.
- Oven: Of course, you’ll need an oven to bake your oatmeal to perfection, transforming your mixture into a delectable breakfast treat.
With these tools, you’re all set to create a delightful high protein breakfast that’s also a convenient meal prep option. Whether it’s the creamy Greek yogurt icing or the spicy-sweet oat mixture, having the right equipment means you’re always ready to whip up a batch of Carrot Cake Baked Oats.
How to Make Your Carrot Cake Baked Oats
Whipping up this meal prep breakfast is a breeze, making it the perfect meal prep breakfast for those busy mornings. Start by getting your oven nice and toasty, preheating it to 350°F, which sets the stage for baking magic.
Create Oat Flour
If you don’t have oat flour on hand, no worries! Simply blend your quick oats in a high-speed blender until they reach a fine, flour-like consistency.
This base is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your baked oatmeal.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a small 6×8” baking dish, combine your homemade oat flour with the other dry ingredients, including the unflavored protein powder, spices, and grated carrot. Give everything a good mix to ensure the flavors meld beautifully.
Add Wet Ingredients
Pour all the wet ingredients into the same baking dish over your dry mix. Stir thoroughly, making sure to eliminate any pockets of dry flour, especially in the corners.
This step ensures a moist, evenly cooked baked oatmeal.
Bake to Perfection
Slide your dish into the oven and let it bake for 40-45 minutes. This is when the magic happens, transforming your mixture into a fragrant, golden-brown carrot cake baked oats.
Greek Yogurt Icing
While your oatmeal bakes, seize the moment to whip up the Greek yogurt icing. Just whisk together the yogurt, sugar-free syrup, vanilla extract, and a dash of cinnamon until smooth and creamy.
After your baked oatmeal has fully cooled, crown it with a generous layer of the Greek yogurt icing, spreading it evenly for that luxurious finish. A final sprinkle of cinnamon adds an extra touch of spice.
Serving
After your baked oatmeal has fully cooled, crown it with a generous layer of the Greek yogurt icing, spreading it evenly for that luxurious finish. A final sprinkle of cinnamon adds an extra touch of spice.
Cut your masterpiece into four even pieces, and voilà, your meal prep breakfast for the week is ready! Store the slices in an airtight container and relish in the fact that your mornings will start with a nutritious, delicious, and utterly satisfying high protein breakfast.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some invaluable tips and tricks to ensure your Carrot Cake Baked Oats turn out perfectly every time, making your meal prep breakfast not just delicious but also a breeze to make.
- Select Quality Ingredients: The taste of your baked oats largely depends on the quality of the ingredients used. Opt for fresh carrots and high-quality oats to enhance the flavor of your baked oatmeal.
- Spice it Up: Don’t hesitate to adjust the amount of cinnamon and nutmeg to suit your taste. The right spice level can transform your baked oats from good to great.
- Texture Variations: For a crunchier top, consider adding nuts or seeds to the mix before baking. This will add a delightful texture contrast to the moist and soft baked oats.
- Monitor Baking Time: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on your baked oats towards the end of the baking time to prevent overcooking. The ideal baked oats should be firm but moist.
- Cool Before Icing: Ensure your baked oatmeal is completely cool before adding the Greek yogurt icing. This prevents the icing from melting into the oatmeal and helps it set properly on top.
- Flavorful Add-ins: Feel free to incorporate dried fruits like raisins or fresh fruits like apple chunks into the batter for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
These tips will not only make your baking process smoother but also enhance the final result, making your Carrot Cake Baked Oats a repeat favorite. With these strategies, you can enjoy a high protein breakfast that’s not only nutritious but also packed with the delightful flavors of a classic carrot cake recipe. So, get ready to bake, enjoy, and start your mornings off on the right foot with this scrumptious meal prep-friendly dish!
Storage Instructions
Here’s how you can store your baked oatmeal to keep them fresh and delicious, making your meal prep breakfast not only convenient but also as enjoyable as the day you baked it.
- Refrigeration: Keep your Carrot Cake Baked Oats in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and tasty for up to a week, perfect for a grab-and-go high protein breakfast every day.
- Pre-slice for Convenience: Cut your baked oats into portions before storing, so you can easily grab a piece each morning without having to cut into it while cold.
- With or Without Icing: If you prefer, store the baked oats and Greek yogurt icing separately, applying the icing fresh when you’re ready to eat to maintain the best texture and taste.
- Avoid Freezing: Freezing is not ideal for this dish as it can change the texture of the oats and icing, so it’s best to enjoy them fresh from the fridge.
By adhering to these storage tips, your Carrot Cake Baked Oats will remain a delightful and nutritious option for your meal prep breakfast needs. This way, you can always have a healthy, high protein breakfast at your fingertips, ready to energize your day with the delicious flavors of carrot cake and oatmeal combined.
Enjoy your baked oats throughout the week, and revel in the knowledge that your mornings are sorted with a tasty, wholesome choice!
More Spring Recipes
Spring is a time for refreshing and light meals that match the newness of the season. Here are a few similar recipes that you may enjoy as well.
- High Protein Mango Lemon Shortbread Bars
- Protein Peanut Butter Eggs
- Veggie Ciabatta Sandwich
- Healthy Veggie Summer Rolls with Creamy Peanut Butter Dipping Sauce
FAQs
Embarking on the journey of making Carrot Cake Baked Oats brings up several common questions, especially for those trying it for the first time. Here are some FAQs to help guide you through the process:
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Can I make Carrot Cake Baked Oats vegan?
Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by substituting the egg whites with flax eggs and ensuring your plant-based milk and sugar-free syrup are vegan-friendly. These substitutions will maintain the dish’s texture and flavor.
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Is it possible to freeze Carrot Cake Baked Oats for later use?
While freezing is possible, it’s not recommended as it may alter the texture and moisture of the baked oats. For best results, store them in the refrigerator and enjoy within a week.
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Can I use regular oats instead of quick oats?
Yes, regular oats can be used in place of quick oats. They will give the baked oats a heartier texture. Just ensure they are blended well if you’re making your own oat flour.
Recipe Card
Carrot Cake Baked Oats
Ingredients
Dry:
- 80 g Quick Oats (H-E-B)
- 60 g Oat Flour (H-E-B)
- 70 g Unflavored Protein Powder (Quest Baking)
- 1 tbsp each of Chia Seeds (Flax Seeds, & Hulled Seeds)
- 1 ½ tbsp Cinnamon (ground)
- ½ tbsp Nutmeg (ground)
- Pinch of Salt
- ~50 g Carrot (grated)
Wet:
- 360 ml Plant-Based Milk (Good Karma)
- 92 g Egg Whites
- 30 g Sugar Free Syrup (Mrs Butterworths)
- ½ tbsp Vanilla Extract
Greek Yogurt Icing:
- 226 g Plain Non Fat Greek Yogurt (Siggi’s)
- 15 g Sugar Free Syrup
- ½ tsp Vanilla Extract
- Sprinkle of Cinnamon
Instructions
- Pre-heat oven to 350°.
- In a high-speed blender, blend your oats to create a flour if you don’t already have some.
- In a small 6×8” baking dish, add in all of your dry ingredients. Mix to incorporate.80 g (1 cups) Quick Oats, 60 g (0.5 cups) Oat Flour, 70 g (0.75 cups) Unflavored Protein Powder, 1 tbsp each of Chia Seeds, 1 1/2 tbsp Cinnamon, 1/2 tbsp Nutmeg, Pinch of Salt, ~50 g (0.33 cups) Carrot
- Then add in all of the wet ingredients. Mix well and ensure there is no dry flour in the corners.360 ml (1.5 cups) Plant-Based Milk, 92 g (0.33 cups) Egg Whites, 30 g (2 tbsp) Sugar Free Syrup, 1/2 tbsp Vanilla Extract
- Bake for 40-45 mins.
- Meanwhile, whisk together your greek yogurt icing ingredients until smooth.226 g (1 cups) Plain Non Fat Greek Yogurt, 15 g (1 tbsp) Sugar Free Syrup, 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract
- Once your oatmeal has baked, ensure it has cooled completely. Then add in a smooth even layer of the icing on top.
- Sprinkle with some more cinnamon and cut into 4 even pieces. Store in an airtight container and enjoy throughout the week!Sprinkle of Cinnamon
Video Tutorial
Nutrition Information
The Nutrition Facts above are specific to the ingredients I chose to use for this recipe.
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