Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal Recipe

If you adore the classic flavors of pecan pie but want a cozy, wholesome breakfast twist, this Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal is going to become your new favorite morning treat. Imagine a warm, comforting dish that combines tender baked oats with a buttery, maple-syrup-soaked pecan topping that crisps up just right. It’s a perfect blend of sweet and nutty, with just the right hint of cinnamon, making it not just breakfast but a decadent experience that feels like a little slice of pecan pie for your start to the day. This recipe is simple to whip up, yet impressively satisfying and sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal plays a starring role, from the creamy almond milk that keeps it dairy-light, to the warm cinnamon that brings the gentle spice, and of course the pecans that deliver a delightful crunch and that signature pie flavor. None of the ingredients are complicated, but together they create something truly special.

• 2 cups rolled oats: Choose gluten-free oats if needed for a hearty and chewy base.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the oatmeal rise slightly for a light, fluffy texture.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds warmth and a classic spice note that pairs perfectly with pecans.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 2 cups milk: Unsweetened almond milk keeps it creamy and dairy-free without overpowering the other flavors.
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup: The natural sweetness that so beautifully complements the pecan topping.
• 1 egg or chia/flax egg: Binds the oatmeal together for a perfect baked consistency, with vegan alternatives available.
• 2 tablespoons butter or coconut oil: Melted to add richness and moisture to the oats.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor with a subtle, sweet aroma.
• 2 tablespoons butter or vegan butter (for topping): Creates that luscious pecan glaze that makes this dish feel indulgent.
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup (for topping): Mixed with butter to soak into the pecans for sticky, sweet crunch.
• 1 cup pecans: Chopped or whole, these bring the signature nutty, buttery crunch to the topping.

How to Make Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish

Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and generously grease a 2-quart baking dish — an 8×8 or 9×9 inch pan is perfect. This will ensure your baked oatmeal doesn’t stick and makes clean-up a breeze.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine your rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir these dry ingredients together well so that every spoonful of oats will have just the right burst of spice and lift.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Pour in the milk, maple syrup, egg or your chosen chia/flax egg, melted butter or coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until just combined. This mixture is the cozy, creamy base that will bake into a tender, flavorful oatmeal.

Step 4: Prepare the Pecan Topping

In a small saucepan on the stove, gently melt the 2 tablespoons of butter with 1/4 cup of maple syrup. Stir in the pecans until they’re well coated in that glossy, sweet glaze. Pour this heavenly mixture evenly over the oatmeal base in your baking dish, spreading it out smoothly.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place your dish in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the oatmeal has puffed up nicely and the topping turns golden and irresistible. Let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving so it firms up just enough to slice or scoop easily.

How to Serve Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal

Garnishes

Take your serving to the next level with a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt, a drizzle of extra maple syrup, or even a sprinkle of extra chopped pecans. A dusting of cinnamon or a few fresh berries also add a lovely visual and flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

This baked oatmeal pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit salads, creamy cottage cheese, or a steaming cup of your favorite coffee or chai latte, creating a full and satisfying breakfast plate that’s hearty but bright.

Creative Ways to Present

For a brunch, try cutting the baked oatmeal into neat squares and serving on a decorative platter with small bowls of whipped cream and nuts for guests to customize. Or, serve in individual ramekins for a charming touch. This Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal also works beautifully as a sweet snack or even dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your first warm portion, cover any leftovers tightly and store in the refrigerator. The flavors deepen as it sits, and it will stay fresh for 2 to 3 days, making it a perfect weekday breakfast prep.

Freezing

You can freeze individual portions of the Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal by wrapping them well in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer-safe container. This way, you have ready-to-go breakfast squares that thaw quickly overnight and reheat easily.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked warmth, pop the oatmeal into a 350-degree oven for about 10 minutes, or microwave briefly if you’re in a hurry. Adding a small splash of milk or a touch of butter before reheating keeps it wonderfully moist and creamy.

FAQs

Can I make this Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal vegan?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the egg for a chia or flax egg and use vegan butter or coconut oil. The flavor and texture stay just as delicious with these swaps.

Is it possible to use regular milk instead of almond milk?

Yes, any milk will work fine here. Almond milk gives it a lightness, but dairy milk or other plant milks will still create a creamy, satisfying baked oatmeal.

Can I prepare the oatmeal the night before and bake it in the morning?

Definitely. You can mix everything the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Add the pecan topping right before baking to keep it crisp and fresh.

What if I don’t have maple syrup? Can I use honey or another sweetener?

Maple syrup is ideal for that authentic pecan pie flavor, but you can experiment with honey or brown sugar. Keep in mind honey has a stronger taste and may alter the final flavor slightly.

How do I make a chia or flax egg?

Mix 1 tablespoon of chia seeds or ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens and becomes gel-like. This replaces one regular egg perfectly.

Final Thoughts

This Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal has quickly become one of my absolute favorites to make for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. It manages to be wholesome, comforting, and deliciously indulgent all at once. If you love pecan pie’s rich, sweet, nutty goodness but want something a bit different and easier to enjoy in the morning, give this recipe a try. I promise it will warm your heart and your kitchen with every bite.

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