Imagine cozying up with a steaming mug of tea while enjoying a slice of Vanilla Chai Baked Oatmeal — the ultimate breakfast treat that effortlessly blends the comforting flavors of creamy oats, aromatic spices, and a whisper of vanilla. This baked oatmeal has all the warmth and nostalgia of your favorite chai latte, but in a wholesome form you can savor any morning of the week. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation, perfect for sharing with family or meal-prepping for busy weekdays.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how just a handful of pantry staples, blended with a few key spices, can create something so inviting. Every ingredient in this Vanilla Chai Baked Oatmeal brings its own charm, building not just flavor but the ideal texture and golden finish.
- Rolled oats: Old-fashioned oats are the backbone of this dish, giving it heartiness and a tender bite.
- Milk (dairy or non-dairy): This adds creaminess and helps bind everything together—use your favorite variety!
- Unsweetened applesauce: A subtle, fruity sweetness and moisture, with fewer calories than oil or butter.
- Maple syrup or honey: Natural sweeteners amplify flavor while keeping things wholesome and rich.
- Eggs: Essential for binding everything, eggs give the oatmeal lift and set it perfectly.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses that sweet, creamy note that pairs perfectly with the chai spices.
- Ground cinnamon: The classic spice base that brings warmth and comfort.
- Ground ginger: Adds a lively, gentle heat that’s crucial to chai’s character.
- Ground cardamom: Floral and peppery, cardamom is unmistakable in a true chai blend.
- Ground cloves: Just a touch delivers extra depth and a sweet-spicy aroma.
- Ground nutmeg: Earthy and fragrant, nutmeg helps round out the spice profile.
- Salt: Just enough to heighten all the flavors (never skip it!).
- Baking powder: Lends some lightness so every bite is fluffy and inviting.
- Chopped nuts or dried fruit (optional): For delightful crunch or bursts of chewy sweetness—feel free to play with add-ins!
How to Make Vanilla Chai Baked Oatmeal
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F, which gives the oatmeal a perfectly golden top. Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish so cleanup is a breeze and the oatmeal slices come out effortlessly.
Step 2: Whisk Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk, applesauce, maple syrup (or honey), eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is smooth and silky—this mixture is the luscious base that soaks into the oats and carries all the flavor.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients and Spices
Stir in the rolled oats, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, and nutmeg. Watch as the batter takes on the aroma of a chai tea shop! Those spices mingle together, ready to become the soul of your Vanilla Chai Baked Oatmeal.
Step 4: Fold in Extras
If you’re adding nuts or dried fruit, gently fold them into the oat mixture now. These additions give the oatmeal a touch of texture, crunch, or a pop of sweetness—totally customizable to your mood or what’s in your pantry.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the oat mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Slide it into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is shimmering golden brown and the center is nice and set. The scent as it bakes is nothing short of heavenly!
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Once baked, let your Vanilla Chai Baked Oatmeal cool for a few minutes. This short wait helps it firm up, making it easier to slice into beautiful, hearty squares. Serve warm and get ready for a breakfast worth savoring.
How to Serve Vanilla Chai Baked Oatmeal
Garnishes
Dress up each square of Vanilla Chai Baked Oatmeal with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of thick yogurt, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts. If you’re feeling extra fancy, a dash of cinnamon on top ties everything together beautifully.
Side Dishes
This spiced oatmeal pairs perfectly with a side of fresh seasonal fruit or a creamy smoothie. For a real breakfast spread, serve it alongside scrambled eggs or a simple salad for balance and color.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the baked oatmeal into fingers for dipping in milk, or layer cubes into a breakfast parfait with yogurt and berries. Vanilla Chai Baked Oatmeal travels well, too, so pack it as a snack for work, hikes, or road trips.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. The flavors deepen as it rests, making each bite even more delicious with time!
Freezing
To freeze, slice the oatmeal into individual portions and wrap them tightly or place them in freezer bags. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
A quick blast in the microwave or a warm-up in the oven brings your Vanilla Chai Baked Oatmeal right back to life. Add a splash of milk before reheating to keep it moist and fluffy.
FAQs
Can I make Vanilla Chai Baked Oatmeal dairy-free?
Absolutely! Simply use your preferred non-dairy milk (like almond, oat, or soy) and double-check that your add-ins are vegan-friendly if needed. The recipe turns out just as creamy and spiced.
What can I use instead of applesauce?
If you’re out of applesauce, mashed ripe bananas or pumpkin puree work really well as substitutes. Both options provide moisture and a subtle layer of sweetness.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
You can, but the texture will be a bit softer and less hearty. Old-fashioned rolled oats give the best structure for baked oatmeal, but in a pinch, quick oats will do.
How can I make this higher in protein?
For an extra boost, just stir in a scoop of your favorite vanilla protein powder or add a handful of hemp seeds. You can also serve it with Greek yogurt for even more staying power.
Is Vanilla Chai Baked Oatmeal gluten-free?
The base ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but be sure to use certified gluten-free oats if you have a gluten sensitivity. Always check your baking powder as well, just to be safe!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to shake up your breakfast routine with something that feels special but is secretly so easy, Vanilla Chai Baked Oatmeal belongs on your table. Give it a try next time you crave comfort with just a pinch of adventure—you might find yourself baking it on repeat, too!
Print
Vanilla Chai Baked Oatmeal Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the warm, cozy flavors of vanilla chai in a nutritious baked oatmeal. This wholesome breakfast dish is packed with aromatic spices and can be easily customized with your favorite nuts or dried fruits.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/3 cup maple syrup or honey
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Optional:
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts or dried fruit
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together milk, applesauce, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla.
- Add dry ingredients: Stir in oats, baking powder, salt, spices, and optional nuts or fruit.
- Bake: Pour mixture into the dish, bake for 35–40 minutes until set.
- Serve: Cool slightly, slice, and enjoy warm.
Notes
- This baked oatmeal is great for meal prep and can be reheated.
- For extra protein, mix in a scoop of vanilla protein powder.
- Serve with milk or yogurt for a delicious breakfast.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
