Delicious and Nutritious Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal Recipe

There was a chilly morning recently when I first savored this Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal, and its warm, cozy flavors instantly felt like a comforting hug. I remember sitting by the kitchen window, watching the soft light filter through as the aroma of cinnamon, nutmeg, and sweet carrots filled the air. It wasn’t what I expected from a morning breakfast bake—the familiar spices from carrot cake were joined with the hearty texture of oats, creating a satisfying blend that felt both comforting and nourishing.

This Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal perfectly captures the heart of what I love to share here on the Carmen Wausa Blog: approachable meals that turn everyday moments into joyful memories. It quietly transforms the morning routine, offering that hint of indulgence without any fuss in preparation. It’s gluten-free baked oatmeal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or texture, making it inviting for the whole family, no matter their dietary preferences.

What makes this Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal unforgettable is its blend of wholesome ingredients with the warm nostalgia of carrot cake flavor oatmeal. It’s subtly sweet, gently spiced, and packed with tender shredded carrots, all baked together into a soft, golden dish that feels like a special occasion breakfast every day.

I’m genuinely excited to share this recipe with you because it brings together everything I stand for—comfort, creativity, and connection in the kitchen. If you love baked oatmeal recipes that bring a little warmth and surprise to your mornings, you’re about to find a new favorite. Plus, it pairs beautifully with other comforting favorites like my loaded baked potato soup or the classic French butter cake.

Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal truly shine!

Top down view of raw ingredients for Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal on marble surface

Ingredients:

Here’s the ingredient list that keeps this Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal simple yet deliciously comforting:

  • 2 cups rolled oats (gluten-free if you prefer a gluten-free baked oatmeal)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk (or your favorite milk alternative)
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup pure maple syrup (the secret to amazing Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal sweetness that feels natural)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups finely shredded carrots (fresh is best, but frozen works if you squeeze out excess moisture)
  • ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional for crunch)
  • ½ cup raisins or golden raisins (optional for a little chewy sweetness)

The beauty of this Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal is you can find these ingredients in most grocery stores, and you don’t need anything fancy to create a satisfying dish. For the best results, I recommend fresh, organic carrots whenever possible because they blend better and taste sweeter in the bake. If you want to splurge on one ingredient, I suggest choosing a quality pure maple syrup—it really lifts the flavor beyond ordinary sweetness.

You can easily swap rolled oats for quick oats, but cause a little variation in texture. For nut-free versions, leave out the walnuts and add extra raisins or a handful of sunflower seeds for texture.

Prepping your carrots ahead and storing them in an airtight container can save you precious time on busy mornings. This practical preparation fits right into the spirit of making morning meals approachable and fuss-free for everyone.

Let’s Make This!

Ready to bring your Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal to life? Let’s walk through the steps together—don’t worry, this process is straightforward and fun!

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  • Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. These spices are what give your Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal its cozy warmth.
  • Whisk the wet ingredients in a separate bowl: Blend together almond milk, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth. A gentle tip here—whisk the eggs thoroughly so they distribute evenly, helping your bake come out perfectly tender.
  • Combine wet and dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the oat mixture and stir until everything is well combined.
  • Fold in the shredded carrots, nuts, and raisins gently. The carrots bring moisture and their natural sweetness, while the nuts add delightful crunch, and the raisins contribute little bursts of chewy charm.
  • Pour the batter into your prepared dish, smoothing out the top with a spatula.
  • Bake for 35-40 minutes. In my kitchen, this Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal takes exactly 38 minutes to reach that perfect golden top, but ovens vary—watch for a lightly browned surface and a firm texture around the edges. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs.
  • Let it cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. This resting step helps your Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal set, making it easier to cut and more enjoyable to eat.

If your Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal looks a little puffy when it comes out of the oven, don’t worry—that’s normal! It will settle as it cools. And while it’s baking, take a moment to breathe in that inviting cinnamon and carrot aroma—this is where your kitchen starts feeling like the coziest spot on earth.

If you’re looking for more baked oatmeal recipes that wouldn’t mind sharing a spot on your breakfast table, check out this gluten-free, dairy-free Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal recipe on Calla’s Clean Eats. It’s a fabulous variation packed with plant-based goodness that fellow food lovers adore.

Serving & Presentation:

Serving this Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal is just as heartwarming as making it. I love a generous scoop dusted with a pinch of cinnamon or topped with a dollop of Greek yogurt for creamy balance.

For a little extra charm, drizzle a simple maple glaze on top—mix powdered sugar with a bit of maple syrup and lemon juice—this nod to classic carrot cake flavor oatmeal makes every bite feel like a celebration.

Serving ideas? This Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal works wonderfully for cozy weekend brunches, weekday morning fuel, or even a comforting post-school snack. At holiday mornings, it’s been the star, sparking smiles when paired with hot coffee or warm chai tea.

If you’re planning a casual gathering, bake it in a larger casserole dish to share easily—people always smile when this Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal arrives at the table, bringing a little extra sweetness and warmth.

Leftovers? Simply store covered in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat with a splash of milk or warm it gently in the microwave to revive its softness. For a fun twist, top warmed portions with cream cheese frosting for a dessert-style treat.

Seasonally, I’ve loved trying this Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal with added orange zest in winter or a handful of chopped fresh apples in the fall. Each brings a fresh twist while staying true to that classic carrot cake flavor oatmeal you love.

Close up of finished Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal topped with fresh garnish

For more ways to add heartwarming touches to your morning spread, check out my cozy Loaded Baked Potato Soup and the timeless French Butter Cake. They pair truly well with a satisfying baked oatmeal breakfast to keep the good vibes flowing.

FAQs:

Can I make this Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal ahead of time?
Absolutely! This baked oatmeal holds up beautifully when made the night before. Just cover it tightly and store in the fridge. In the morning, reheat gently for a comforting breakfast that feels freshly made.

What if I don’t have almond milk for my Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal?
No problem. Any milk or milk alternative works—dairy, oat, soy, or even water in a pinch. Each option slightly changes the texture, but your Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal will still taste wonderful.

Is this a gluten-free baked oatmeal?
Yes, provided you use gluten-free oats. Many stores carry certified gluten-free oats, which help you enjoy this carrot cake flavor oatmeal with peace of mind.

How do I know when my Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal is perfectly done?
Look for a lightly browned top and set edges. When you insert a toothpick into the center, it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The texture should be firm but not dry.

Can I add other mix-ins to my Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal?
Definitely! Chopped pineapple, shredded coconut, or even chocolate chips can add fun variety. Just keep the moisture balance in mind so the bake holds together.

My Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal turned out dry—what happened?
Try checking your oven temperature with an oven thermometer. Baking too long or at too high heat can dry out your oats. Also, make sure your carrot moisture content isn’t too low—freshly grated carrots work best.

Can I freeze this baked oatmeal?
Yes! Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm up for a quick, convenient treat.

For a delightful twist on the classic, take a peek at Oh She Glows’ Heavenly Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal or Snixy Kitchen’s Moist Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal with Maple Cream Cheese Glaze. There’s so much warmth and joy to be found among these ideas!

Why This Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal Will Become Your New Favorite:

This Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal holds a special place in my kitchen because it’s a recipe that embodies everything I believe in—comfort without complication, flavor without fuss, and meals that bring people together.

My Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal Success Tips:

  • Always use freshly shredded carrots for the best moisture and sweetness.
  • Don’t skip the spices—they build the signature carrot cake flavor oatmeal vibe.
  • Let the baked oatmeal rest before serving to help it set perfectly.

Over the years, I’ve riffed on this recipe with several favorites: a vegan version with flax eggs and coconut milk, a nut-free version packed with sunflower seeds, and a more indulgent take topped with maple cream cheese glaze that’s a family favorite.

Most smiles happen when I serve the original Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal warm, with a smear of butter or a spoonful of yogurt, and watch as the comforting flavors work their magic.

I hope you’ll add this Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal to your morning repertoire and create your own moments of comfort and connection. I’m confident in your cooking success and can’t wait to hear how it becomes part of your kitchen stories!

Don’t forget to share your delicious results and favorite variations with me—I love seeing your joyful kitchen moments!

If this Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal brings a little extra joy to your mornings, you might also enjoy my other comforting recipes like the Carrot Cake Bars for a sweet snack that pairs beautifully with a morning breakfast bake.

Happy baking, fellow food lovers!

  Print

Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal

Freshly baked carrot cake baked oatmeal on white plate

A wholesome and delicious Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal that combines the warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg with shredded carrots for a nutritious breakfast treat.

  • Author: Carmen
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
  • 2 tbsp raisins (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, shredded carrots, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together milk, maple syrup, egg, and vanilla extract.
  4. Pour wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until combined.
  5. Fold in walnuts and raisins if using.
  6. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
  7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden and the oatmeal is set.
  8. Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then serve warm.

Notes

For a creamier texture, serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of nut butter.

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