Vanilla Chai Baked Oatmeal Recipe

Introduction

Vanilla Chai Baked Oatmeal is a warm and comforting breakfast perfect for cozy mornings. Infused with chai spices and vanilla, this hearty dish combines steel cut oats, toasted pecans, and a cinnamon sugar topping for delightful texture and flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 cup steel cut oats*
• 2/3 cup toasted pecans, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons chai spice mix
• Pinch of salt
• ½ cup raisins (optional)
• 2 cups milk
• ½ cup cream or substitute more milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for topping)
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (for topping)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9 or 10-inch round baking dish, such as a deep dish pie plate.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the steel cut oats, toasted pecans, maple syrup, chai spice mix, salt, and raisins (if using). Mix well.
3. Step 3: Pour in the milk, cream (or additional milk), vanilla extract, and melted butter. Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
4. Step 4: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
5. Step 5: In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the top of the oat mixture.
6. Step 6: Bake in the center of the oven for 55-60 minutes, until the top is golden brown and crispy.
7. Step 7: Remove from oven and serve warm. Add toppings like extra milk, cream, maple syrup, or fresh fruit, if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For a quicker version, substitute rolled oats for steel cut oats, but reduce baking time to 30-40 minutes as rolled oats cook faster.
• Add a handful of chopped dried fruits or shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor.
• Use plant-based milk and butter alternatives to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
• Try different nuts such as walnuts or almonds if pecans aren’t available.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For best texture, add a splash of milk when reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix the ingredients the night before and keep the dish covered in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh in the morning, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if taken directly from the fridge.

Is steel cut oats necessary for this dish?

Steel cut oats provide a chewy texture that holds up well in baking, but you can use rolled oats for a softer, quicker-cooking option. Just reduce the baking time accordingly.

Vanilla Chai Baked Oatmeal Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 149 reviews

This Vanilla Chai Baked Oatmeal is a cozy, flavorful breakfast dish combining steel cut oats with warm chai spices, toasted pecans, and a cinnamon sugar topping. Baked to golden perfection, it’s creamy inside with a crispy, sweet crust—perfect for a comforting morning treat.

• Author: Hannah
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Porridge:

• 1 cup steel cut oats *
• 2/3 cup toasted pecans, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons chai spice mix
• Pinch of salt
• ½ cup raisins (optional)
• 2 cups milk
• ½ cup cream (or substitute more milk)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

1. Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9 or 10-inch round baking dish, such as a deep dish pie plate, to prevent sticking.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the steel cut oats, finely chopped toasted pecans, maple syrup, chai spice mix, a pinch of salt, and optional raisins. Stir until evenly mixed.
3. Add wet ingredients: Pour in the milk, cream (or additional milk if preferred), vanilla extract, and melted butter. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients into a homogenous batter.
4. Assemble and add topping: Pour the oat mixture into the prepared baking dish. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the topping. Sprinkle this cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the porridge batter in the dish.
5. Bake the oatmeal: Place the baking dish in the center of the preheated oven. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy, and the oatmeal is set and creamy inside.
6. Serve: Remove the baked oatmeal from the oven. Serve warm, portioned into bowls and topped with your favorite additions such as extra milk, cream, a drizzle of maple syrup, or fresh fruit.

Notes

• You can substitute rolled oats for steel cut oats; however, reduce baking time to 30-40 minutes as rolled oats cook faster.
• For a dairy-free option, use plant-based milk and vegan butter substitutes.
• Chai spice mix can be made by combining ground cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, and black pepper for a warm aromatic flavor.

Keywords: Vanilla Chai, Baked Oatmeal, Breakfast, Steel Cut Oats, Chai Spice, Healthy Breakfast, Maple Syrup, Comfort Food