Delicious Vegan Baked Oats: The Viral TikTok Recipe for a Healthy, Cake-Like Breakfast
Embark on a culinary journey with these delightful vegan baked oats, a breakfast sensation that has taken the internet by storm, particularly on TikTok. Far from your average bowl of oatmeal, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a filling, wholesome, and surprisingly decadent morning treat. With the rich addition of dark chocolate, these baked oats offer a touch of indulgence to kickstart your day, all while requiring just a few minutes of hands-on prep.
While baked oatmeal has been a beloved breakfast staple for years, with classics like Baked Banana Bread Oatmeal Cups, TikTok has undeniably revolutionized the game. This viral approach introduces a blending step that completely redefines the texture of traditional baked oats. Instead of a consistency that might remind you of a cross between porridge and bread pudding, these new-age baked oats emerge from the oven with an astonishingly cake-like softness.
The secret lies in pulverizing the rolled oats along with the other ingredients, creating a smooth batter that bakes up light and fluffy. The blending process incorporates air, contributing to that incredible, airy texture that is truly unlike any oatmeal you’ve experienced before. Prepare for a breakfast that feels more like dessert but delivers all the nutritional goodness of oats.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Vegan Baked Oats Recipe
Our rendition of these TikTok vegan baked oats takes the popular trend and makes it entirely plant-based. We achieve this by thoughtfully omitting eggs and cleverly using ripe bananas as a natural binder. This ingenious substitution not only simplifies the recipe but also adds a wonderful, subtle sweetness, significantly reducing the need for additional sweeteners. Think banana bread meets oatmeal, in the best possible way!
Just like their traditional counterparts, these vegan baked oats are incredibly versatile. They’re effortlessly customizable, allowing you to infuse them with your favorite flavors, mix-ins, and toppings. The outcome is a warm, comforting, and utterly satisfying breakfast that is both nutritious and incredibly delicious. It’s the perfect solution for busy mornings when you crave something special without a lot of fuss.
- Effortlessly Vegan: No eggs, no dairy! Just wholesome plant-based ingredients.
- Cake-Like Texture: The blending process creates an airy, fluffy consistency that’s a revelation.
- Naturally Sweetened: Ripe bananas provide natural sweetness, reducing added sugars.
- Quick Prep: Most of the work is done in a blender, making it ideal for busy schedules.
- Highly Customizable: A blank canvas for your favorite fruits, nuts, spices, and chocolate.
- Hearty & Satisfying: Keeps you full and energized until your next meal.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Vegan Baked Oats
Crafting these delectable vegan baked oats starts with a few simple, wholesome ingredients. Each plays a crucial role in achieving the desired flavor and signature cake-like texture. Scroll down to the recipe card below to find the exact ingredient quantities and detailed recipe instructions.
- Rolled Oats: The star of our show! Rolled oats, also known as old-fashioned oats, are key for this recipe. Unlike steel-cut oats, they blend beautifully into a smooth batter, preventing any grainy texture. Quick oats can work in a pinch, but rolled oats provide the best consistency and nutritional profile. They’re packed with fiber, making this a truly satisfying breakfast.
- Ripe Banana: This is our magical vegan binder and natural sweetener. The riper the banana, the sweeter and more pronounced its flavor will be, lending a delightful banana bread essence to your baked oats. If your banana isn’t quite ripe, you might need to add a little extra maple syrup to compensate for the sweetness.
- Vegan Milk: Choose your favorite! Almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or cashew milk all work wonderfully. Each will impart a slightly different flavor, so feel free to experiment. Just ensure it’s unsweetened if you want more control over the overall sweetness of the dish.
- Maple Syrup: A fantastic natural, vegan sweetener that complements the banana and oats perfectly. Agave nectar or even a touch of brown sugar can be used as alternatives, but maple syrup offers a unique depth of flavor. Adjust the amount to your personal taste preference.
- Baking Powder: This is our leavening agent, responsible for giving the baked oats that incredible rise and fluffy, cake-like texture. Don’t skip it!
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances all the other flavors, adding a warm, comforting note. For a different twist, try almond extract to create a marzipan-like nuance.
- Sea Salt: Just a pinch is all it takes to balance the sweetness and bring out the full flavor profile of the oats and banana.
- Cinnamon: This cozy spice pairs wonderfully with banana and oats. Feel free to explore other warm spices like cardamom, nutmeg, or even a blend of pumpkin pie spice for seasonal variations.
- Vegan Chocolate: Dark chocolate squares or chips melt beautifully into the warm oats, adding a luxurious touch. Ensure your chocolate is certified vegan for a truly plant-based treat.
What Kind of Oats Are Best for Baking?
For both traditional baked oatmeal recipes and the trending TikTok style, rolled oats (or old-fashioned oats) are unequivocally the best choice. Their flatter shape and moderate processing allow them to blend into a smoother batter compared to steel-cut oats, which would result in a much grainier, chewier texture that isn’t ideal for the desired cake-like consistency. While quick oats can be used for a slightly finer texture, rolled oats offer the perfect balance for this recipe, providing structure and a wholesome chew after blending.
Effortless Preparation: How to Make Vegan Baked Oats
One of the many charms of this recipe is its simplicity. I often find myself preparing this right after waking up, letting it bake while I get ready for the day. By the time I’m done, a warm, comforting breakfast is waiting! The process is incredibly straightforward, relying heavily on your trusty blender.
- Prepare Your Oven and Ramekin: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly grease your chosen ramekin (a 14-ounce size is perfect for a generous single serving) with a bit of olive oil or vegan butter to ensure your baked oats don’t stick and release easily after baking.
- Blend All Ingredients to Perfection: In a high-speed blender, combine the rolled oats, ripe banana, vegan milk, maple syrup, baking powder, vanilla extract, a pinch of sea salt, and cinnamon. Blend on high until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. There should be no visible oat pieces, and the batter should have a light, airy consistency. This step is crucial for achieving that desirable cake-like texture.
- Bake Until Golden: Carefully pour the blended mixture into your prepared ramekin. Remember to leave a little room at the top, as the oats will rise during baking thanks to the baking powder. Place the ramekin in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Finishing Touches: Once baked, remove the ramekin from the oven. Immediately place a few squares of vegan chocolate on top of the hot oats. Let them sit for about a minute; the residual heat will gently melt the chocolate, creating a luscious topping. Serve warm and enjoy this incredible breakfast!
Expert Tips for Vegan Baked Oats Success
To ensure your vegan baked oats turn out perfectly fluffy and delicious every single time, keep these handy tips in mind:
- Embrace Ripe Bananas: The riper the banana, the better! Overripe bananas are not only sweeter, reducing the need for additional sweeteners, but they also have a more intense banana flavor that infuses the oats with a wonderful, natural sweetness reminiscent of banana bread. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots.
- Sweeten to Your Preference: Since this recipe is completely egg-free, it’s safe to taste the batter before baking. This allows you to adjust the maple syrup content to your exact liking. If your banana isn’t very ripe, you might want to add an extra teaspoon or two.
- Utilize a Baking Sheet: Always place your ramekin on a small baking sheet before putting it into the oven. This acts as a safety net; if the oats happen to overflow slightly during baking (which can occasionally happen if your ramekin is very full), you won’t have a messy clean-up inside your oven. It also makes transferring the hot ramekin much easier and safer.
- Don’t Overmix: While blending is essential for the smooth texture, avoid over-blending once everything is incorporated. Blend just until smooth and airy, then stop.
- Choose the Right Ramekin: A 14-ounce ramekin is ideal for a single, substantial serving. If you’re using a smaller ramekin, you might want to divide the batter into two to prevent overflowing.
- Experiment with Toppings: While the melted chocolate is divine, consider adding fresh berries, a sprinkle of chopped nuts, or a dollop of vegan yogurt after baking for extra flavor and texture.
Creative Variations & Customization Ideas
The beauty of these vegan baked oats lies in their incredible adaptability. They serve as a perfect canvas for countless flavor combinations, ensuring you never get bored! Here are some ideas to spark your culinary imagination:
- Fruity Add-ins: Fold in fresh or frozen berries (blueberries, raspberries, sliced strawberries), chopped apples, diced peaches, or pitted cherries before baking. The fruit will soften and release its juices, adding natural sweetness and moisture.
- Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Beyond dark chocolate squares on top, mix in vegan chocolate chips directly into the batter for an even richer chocolate experience. White vegan chocolate chips or cacao nibs can also add a delightful twist.
- Nutty Crunch: Stir in chopped walnuts, pecans, almonds, or cashews for added texture and healthy fats. A sprinkle of sliced almonds or hemp hearts on top after baking provides a lovely garnish and extra protein.
- Spice It Up: While cinnamon is wonderful, explore other warm spices. Cardamom adds an exotic touch, nutmeg is subtly sweet, and a pinch of ginger or a full pumpkin pie spice blend can create seasonal comfort.
- Extract Experiments: Beyond vanilla and almond, consider adding a hint of peppermint extract (especially with chocolate!), orange extract, or even a touch of coffee extract for mocha-flavored oats.
- Protein Boost: For an extra protein kick, you can add a scoop of your favorite unflavored or vanilla vegan protein powder to the blender with the other ingredients. You might need a tiny splash more milk to maintain the consistency.
- Seed Power: Chia seeds or flax seeds can be blended in for extra fiber and omega-3s. A tablespoon or two will thicken the batter slightly and boost nutritional value.
Don’t forget the power of toppings! Before serving, sprinkle with shredded coconut, a drizzle of extra maple syrup, a dollop of coconut whipped cream, or a dusting of cocoa powder. The possibilities are truly endless!
Storage and Freezing Instructions
While vegan baked oats are undeniably best enjoyed warm and fresh from the oven, they can also be prepared ahead of time or saved for later. This makes them a fantastic option for meal prep!
- How to Store Leftovers: Any leftover baked oats can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply pop them into the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or warm them in a 350ºF (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, until heated through. A sprinkle of fresh berries or a fresh chocolate melt will make them feel brand new!
- Can This Recipe Be Frozen? Absolutely! Vegan baked oats freeze beautifully, making them an excellent candidate for batch cooking. Once cooled completely, wrap the ramekin (or individual portions if you transfer them to freezer-safe containers) tightly with plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, transfer the frozen oats to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. Once thawed, reheat according to the instructions above.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vegan Baked Oats
Here are some common questions you might have about making and enjoying this delicious vegan baked oats recipe:
Can I make these baked oats gluten-free?
Yes, absolutely! As long as you use certified gluten-free rolled oats, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Most other ingredients are inherently gluten-free, but always check labels if you have a severe allergy or sensitivity.
What if I don’t have a blender?
While a blender is key for achieving the ultra-smooth, cake-like texture, you can still make a delicious version without one. You’ll get a more traditional baked oatmeal texture. Simply mash the banana very well, then combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix thoroughly. Let the mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the oats to soften slightly before baking.
Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can! You can blend the batter and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Give it a quick stir before pouring into the ramekin and baking, as it might thicken slightly. This is a great tip for busy mornings!
How do I know when the baked oats are done?
The baked oats are ready when the top is golden brown and appears set. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s done. Be careful not to overbake, as this can lead to a drier texture.
Can I make this recipe for more servings?
Definitely! This recipe is easily scalable. Simply multiply all the ingredients by the number of servings you desire. You can bake it in a larger oven-safe dish (like an 8×8 inch baking dish for 4-6 servings) instead of individual ramekins. Adjust baking time accordingly; larger dishes will likely take longer.
What’s the best way to choose a ripe banana?
For the best flavor and sweetness, choose a banana that has plenty of brown spots on its peel. It should be soft to the touch but not mushy. Yellow bananas with no spots are less sweet and will require more added sweetener.
Whether you’re new to the world of plant-based breakfasts or simply looking for a new, exciting way to enjoy your morning oats, this TikTok-inspired vegan baked oats recipe is a must-try. Its cake-like texture, natural sweetness, and customizable nature make it an instant favorite. Give it a whirl and discover your new go-to healthy, hearty breakfast!
More Delicious Vegan Breakfast Ideas
- Easy Southwestern Tofu Scramble (+ Breakfast Tacos)
- Vegan Yogurt Parfait Breakfast Popsicles
- Strawberry Coconut Overnight Oats
- Easy Vegan Blueberry Pancakes
Vegan Baked Oats
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Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 ripe banana
- ¾ cup vegan milk
- 2 to 3 teaspoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch sea salt
- Pinch cinnamon
- Squares of vegan chocolate
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F/180°℃. Grease a ramekin with a little bit of olive oil or vegan butter (optional but helps it not to stick) and set aside.
- In a blender, mix together the oats, banana, milk, maple syrup, baking powder, vanilla extract, sea salt and cinnamon until completely smooth.
- Pour the mix into a large ramekin that comes almost all the way to the top (leave some space for rising) – I used a 14 ounce ramekin.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes in the oven. Remove, top with chocolate and let it melt slightly for about a minute. Dig in and enjoy!
Notes
To freeze: Vegan baked oats can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap the ramekin with plastic wrap; when you’re ready to eat, let the oats thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat according to the instructions above.
Disclaimer: Although jessicainthekitchen.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, kindly note that these are only estimates. Nutritional information may be affected based on the product type, the brand that was purchased, and in other unforeseeable ways. Jessicainthekitchen.com will not be held liable for any loss or damage resulting for your reliance on nutritional information. If you need to follow a specific caloric regimen, please consult your doctor first.