Description
This High Protein Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal combines the comforting flavors of carrot cake with a nutritious protein boost. Perfect for a healthy breakfast or snack, it features rolled oats, protein powder or lentils, and warm spices baked into a moist, satisfying dish. Optionally enhanced with nuts and raisins, it offers a delicious way to fuel your day with wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 3/4 cup protein powder (vanilla or plain) or 1/2 cup cooked split red lentils (alternative)
- 1 3/4 cups milk of choice
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted coconut oil
Optional Mix-Ins
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts
- 2 tablespoons raisins
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the baked oatmeal.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in the rolled oats, baking powder, and protein powder (or cooked lentils if using as an alternative). Mix thoroughly until all the dry ingredients are evenly incorporated into the wet mixture.
- Fold in Carrots and Mix-Ins: Gently fold the grated carrots into the batter along with any optional mix-ins like chopped nuts and raisins. This adds texture and additional flavor.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the oatmeal is set and the top has turned golden brown.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the baked oatmeal from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. This helps it firm up and makes serving easier. Optionally, top with Greek yogurt or cream cheese frosting for added richness.
- Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy warm or cold, plain or topped with your favorite nut butter, yogurt, or a drizzle of maple syrup for extra sweetness.
Notes
- You can substitute protein powder with cooked split red lentils for a natural protein boost.
- Use any milk of choice: dairy or plant-based alternatives work well.
- Optional nuts add crunch, while raisins provide natural sweetness and chewiness.
- Let the baked oatmeal cool slightly before slicing to hold its shape better.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat before serving.
