This cozy and spiced vanilla chai baked oatmeal is a warm, comforting breakfast with rich chai flavors and a touch of sweetness. Perfect for meal prep, this dish makes mornings easier while filling your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon, ginger, and vanilla.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Cozy and flavorful with warm chai spices
- Easy to make and perfect for meal prep
- Naturally sweetened with maple syrup
- Dairy-free and gluten-free adaptable
- A healthy and satisfying breakfast option
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Rolled oats
- Almond milk (or milk of choice)
- Maple syrup
- Vanilla extract
- Cinnamon
- Ground ginger
- Ground cloves
- Ground cardamom
- Baking powder
- Salt
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix all ingredients until well combined.
- Pour the oat mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the oats have set.
- Serve warm with extra maple syrup or yogurt, if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 250 kcal per serving
Variations
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds for extra texture.
- Fruit Boost: Stir in diced apples, raisins, or mashed banana for natural sweetness.
- Protein-Packed: Mix in a scoop of vanilla protein powder for extra nutrition.
- Sweeter Option: Drizzle with honey or add dark chocolate chips.
- Make It Vegan: Use plant-based milk and maple syrup for a fully vegan version.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: Microwave individual servings for 30-45 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
- Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but the texture will be softer. Rolled oats provide the best consistency.
What’s the best milk to use?
Almond, oat, coconut, or dairy milk all work well in this recipe.
Can I make this without maple syrup?
Yes! Swap it with honey, agave, or a sugar-free alternative.
How do I know when the oatmeal is done?
The top should be golden, and the oats should be set without excess liquid.
Can I prepare this the night before?
Yes! Mix the ingredients and store them in the fridge overnight. Bake in the morning.
What toppings go well with this oatmeal?
Try yogurt, nut butter, fresh fruit, or a sprinkle of coconut flakes.
Can I make this in muffin form?
Yes! Divide the batter into a greased muffin tin and bake for 20-25 minutes.
Does this taste like chai tea?
Yes! The spices mimic classic chai flavors, giving it a warm and aromatic taste.
Can I add eggs for more structure?
Yes! Adding one beaten egg will make the oatmeal slightly firmer.
What can I serve with this?
Pair it with a warm chai latte, coffee, or fresh fruit for a complete breakfast.
Conclusion
Vanilla chai baked oatmeal is a comforting and flavorful way to start your day. With its cozy spices and naturally sweetened goodness, it’s perfect for busy mornings, meal prep, or a warm, nourishing breakfast. Try it once, and it might just become your new go-to oatmeal recipe!
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Vanilla Chai Baked Oatmeal
Vanilla Chai Baked Oatmeal is a cozy, spiced, and naturally sweetened breakfast that’s perfect for meal prep. Packed with warm chai flavors and wholesome ingredients, this easy-to-make dish is gluten-free, dairy-free adaptable, and a deliciously satisfying way to start your day.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1 ½ cups almond milk (or milk of choice)
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- ¼ tsp ground cardamom
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Mix all ingredients in a large bowl until well combined.
- Pour the oat mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden and the oats are set.
- Serve warm with extra maple syrup, yogurt, or fresh fruit if desired.
Notes
- Add a crunch: Stir in chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds.
- Boost the sweetness: Mix in raisins, diced apples, or mashed banana.
- Protein-packed: Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder.
- Make it vegan: Use plant-based milk and maple syrup.
- Muffin-style: Bake in a greased muffin tin for 20-25 minutes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Meal Prep
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
