cinnamon roll oatmeal

Creamy cinnamon roll oatmeal topped with maple brown sugar glaze and nuts. A comforting and healthy breakfast that’s like a dessert in a bowl!

Oatmeal has been a breakfast staple in my life for as long as I can remember. Enjoy with fresh fruit and nut butters, or bake in oatmeal snack bars, they’re healthy, nutritious, and endlessly versatile. I especially like the combination of oats and warm spices. Of course, cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice are at the top of the list this time of year. Today I’m sharing a recipe that combines my standard creamy oatmeal base with the irresistible flavor of cinnamon rolls. It’s the perfect bowl for breakfast, brunch, or even an afternoon snack when you want something warm and sweet.

cinnamon roll oatmeal

This recipe is easy to make, uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, and is as comforting as freshly baked cinnamon rolls, but in the form of healthy oatmeal. Topped with creamy brown sugar maple sauce and sprinkled with chopped nuts, this bowl is both nourishing and indulgent. Plus, it’s perfect if you want to bake oatmeal-flavored cinnamon rolls without using the oven.

What’s special about this “cinnamon roll” oatmeal?

Cinnamon Roll Oatmeal is simply topped with oatmeal flavor to create a cinnamon roll-like taste. Think of soft, creamy oats as the base for your warm dough, then mix in a sweet and creamy topping made with cream cheese, brown sugar, and maple syrup to mimic that luscious cinnamon roll glaze. Sprinkle with cinnamon and chopped nuts and you’ve got a cozy breakfast that suddenly feels like dessert.

Which type of oats is best?

The advantage of this recipe is that you can use any type of oats you have on hand.

Old Fashioned Rolled Oats: My favorite for the creamiest, most classic texture. This is what I used in this recipe. Steel-cut oats: Great for chew and nutty flavor. It takes longer to cook, but you get a heartier texture in return. Instant oats: This is the quickest option if you’re in a hurry. You will get a softer and creamier consistency. Gluten-free oats: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, substitute rolled oats that are certified gluten-free.

Each type has a slightly different texture, but they pair perfectly with cinnamon roll sauce.

How to make cinnamon roll oatmeal

The base of this recipe comes from my tried-and-true method for making creamy oatmeal, but this time I omit the bananas and just top it with a decadent sauce. Rolled oats are cooked until perfectly creamy and topped with a luscious glaze made with cream cheese, maple syrup, brown sugar, whole milk, and chopped nuts. If you want to go lighter, you can also swap out the almond milk or choose a dairy-free milk and use plant-based cream cheese.

material

Makes 2 hearty bowls

For the oatmeal base: 1 cup Old Fashioned Drawn Oats (or steel-cut oats, instant oats, or gluten-free oats) 1 3/4 cups water (or almond milk, milk, or your favorite milk) Pinch of salt 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon For the cinnamon roll sauce: 2 tablespoons softened cream cheese (use dairy-free cream cheese if desired) 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or (Substitute coconut sugar or powdered sugar if desired) 2 tablespoons maple syrup 2-3 tablespoons whole milk (or almond milk) 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts are best) Extra cinnamon for sprinkling

Instructions

Step 1: Place the oat-based ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat.

In a small saucepan, combine rolled oats, water (or almond milk), salt, and cinnamon. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Step 2: Stir and cook for 5-7 minutes

While the oats are cooking, stir frequently and reduce the heat as needed. Continue cooking until the oats are creamy and thick. About 5-7 minutes for rolled oats (longer for steel-cut, shorter for instant oats).

Step 3: Make the cinnamon roll sauce in a separate small pot

While the oats are boiling, make the cinnamon roll sauce. Combine cream cheese, brown sugar, and maple syrup in a small saucepan over medium-low heat and stir until smooth.

Step 4: Dilute the sauce with milk

Add 2 tablespoons of milk to the sauce and whisk until it reaches a drizzle-like consistency. Stir in chopped nuts. If you prefer a thinner glaze, add more milk.

Step 5: Assemble the bowl

Once the oatmeal is cooked, scoop it into a small bowl. Serve with plenty of cinnamon roll sauce. Sprinkle additional cinnamon or nuts on top, if desired.

Step 6: Warm and serve

Serve warm and enjoy a cozy cinnamon roll oatmeal bowl.

Nutritional information display

This recipe is healthy yet indulgent. The oats provide fiber and protein, and the maple syrup and cream cheese give the sauce a satisfying sweetness. Depending on the milk and cream cheese you use, this can be dairy-free or protein-rich. For a protein boost, you can also add a spoonful of protein powder and stir while the oats are cooking, similar to my protein oatmeal recipe.

If you want to reduce the sugar content, try substituting coconut sugar for brown sugar or reducing the sweetener a little. On the other hand, if you want a more classic glaze flavor, you can add a little powdered sugar to the sauce.

Why you’ll love this recipe

Baked oatmeal in cozy cinnamon rolls without turning on the oven Can be customized with rolled oats, instant oats, or steel cut oats Easy step-by-step process with minimal ingredients Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even a hot dessert Can also be dairy-free or gluten-free

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