Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal (Gluten-Free, Vegan-Friendly) Recipe
If you’re craving a cozy, wholesome breakfast with all the soul-soothing flavors of classic pie, you have to try this Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal (Gluten-Free, Vegan-Friendly). It’s the ultimate mash-up: hearty oats, a sweet maple glaze, and toasty pecans come together in every golden bite. Plus, this crowd-pleaser is incredibly versatile—easy to whip up for meal prep or a laid-back brunch with friends. Each slice truly tastes like dessert for breakfast, without any of the guilt!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal (Gluten-Free, Vegan-Friendly) so wonderful? The ingredient list is simple and unfussy, but every single element plays an important role—whether it’s for the sweet aroma, crunchy topping, or luscious, custardy texture.
- Rolled oats: The heart of this dish—choose certified gluten-free if needed to keep every bite safe and hearty.
- Baking powder: Just a teaspoon gives the oatmeal a lift, making it delightfully fluffy.
- Cinnamon: This classic spice adds warmth and a gentle sweetness to the mix.
- Salt: A pinch is key; it brightens and balances all the rich, sweet flavors.
- Milk (unsweetened almond milk or any other): The liquid that brings it all together and keeps everything perfectly moist—plant-based for vegan-friendliness!
- Pure maple syrup: The true hero for natural sweetness and quintessential pecan pie flavor.
- Egg (or chia/flax egg): Acts as a binder, but the vegan option ensures everyone at the table can enjoy.
- Butter or vegan butter (melted): Adds richness for that decadent pie taste—coconut oil works too if you prefer.
- Vanilla extract: Just a splash deepens the flavor, making each bite fragrant and cozy.
- Pecans (chopped or whole): The star topping—nutty, buttery, and completely irresistible after toasting in the oven.
How to Make Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal (Gluten-Free, Vegan-Friendly)
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prep Your Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Give a 2-quart (an 8×8 or 9×9 inch) baking dish a light greasing with butter, vegan butter, or a spritz of oil. This helps prevent sticking and makes clean-up a breeze later on.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This quick step evenly distributes the leavening and spices, guaranteeing every forkful of your Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal (Gluten-Free, Vegan-Friendly) is full of flavor.
Step 3: Stir in the Wet Ingredients
Now, pour in your milk of choice, maple syrup, egg or chia/flax egg, melted butter or oil, and vanilla extract. Give everything a good stir so the oats soak up that gorgeous, sweet custard. Then, pour this mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 4: Make the Maple-Pecan Topping
On the stovetop or in the microwave, gently melt together the butter (or vegan butter) and maple syrup. Toss in your pecans and stir until they’re glistening and well-coated. Pour this glossy, nutty mixture right over your oatmeal base and spread the pecans evenly for the perfect golden topping.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Set
Slide your filled pan into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the oatmeal looks puffed up and the top is deeply golden-brown. Let it cool for five minutes before serving; the texture sets beautifully as it rests.
Step 6: Serve, Store, and Savor
Enjoy your Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal (Gluten-Free, Vegan-Friendly) warm right out of the oven, or let it cool, cover, and refrigerate for 2 to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or oven for a quick, comforting breakfast on busy mornings.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal (Gluten-Free, Vegan-Friendly)
Garnishes
Top each serving with a little drizzle of extra maple syrup, a dollop of coconut whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Additional chopped pecans or a splash of cold milk add both texture and creaminess, transforming your morning bowl into something truly special.
Side Dishes
This hearty oatmeal pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh berries, sliced bananas, or a crisp fruit salad. If you’re feeling indulgent, serve it alongside vegan breakfast sausage or yogurt for a well-rounded brunch spread the whole family will love.
Creative Ways to Present
Try baking individual portions in ramekins for a brunch party, or layer leftovers into parfaits with plant-based yogurt and fruit for easy grab-and-go breakfasts. For a cozy touch, reheat a slice and enjoy it as a healthy dessert with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place cooled Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal (Gluten-Free, Vegan-Friendly) in an airtight container or wrap the dish tightly with foil. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to three days, making it a perfect meal-prep breakfast that’s just as tasty on day three as it is fresh from the oven.
Freezing
Slice the cooled oatmeal into squares and freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last up to three months—just what you need for busy mornings when time is tight but you want something warming and nourishing.
Reheating
Warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 30 seconds, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. For larger portions, cover the baking dish with foil and heat at 350 degrees for 10 minutes. Either method brings back that irresistible just-baked flavor!
FAQs
Can I use quick oats or steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
For the signature texture of Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal (Gluten-Free, Vegan-Friendly), rolled oats are best. Quick oats will result in a softer, more porridge-like consistency, while steel-cut oats won’t cook through in the same baking time.
Is there a nut-free alternative to pecans?
Absolutely! Try using pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a similar crunch and rustic look—they toast beautifully with the maple glaze.
How do I make a chia or flax egg?
Mix 1 tablespoon of chia seeds or ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes until thickened, then use it in place of the egg for a vegan-friendly twist.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double all the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch dish. Just keep an eye on the baking time—it may need a few extra minutes until the center is fully set and golden.
Is it sweet enough without extra sugar?
The natural sweetness from maple syrup and cinnamon means you likely won’t need anything more. Feel free to adjust to your preference or add a bit of chopped fruit for extra sweetness if you like.
Final Thoughts
If you love the flavors of a classic dessert but want something nourishing enough for breakfast, this Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal (Gluten-Free, Vegan-Friendly) is going to be your new favorite. It’s satisfying, simple to make, and endlessly adaptable—give it a try and let it warm up your mornings!
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Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal (Gluten-Free, Vegan-Friendly) Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan
Description
A delicious and wholesome Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal recipe that is gluten-free and vegan-friendly. This comforting dish combines the flavors of pecan pie with the heartiness of oatmeal, perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups rolled oats (certified gluten-free, if needed)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 cups milk (unsweetened almond milk)
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 egg (or 1 chia or flax egg* for vegan)
- 2 Tablespoons butter (vegan butter, or coconut oil, melted)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Pecan Topping:
- 2 Tbsp. butter or vegan butter
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 cup pecans (roughly chopped or whole)
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 2-quart baking dish.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in milk, maple syrup, egg or chia egg, melted butter/oil, and vanilla. Stir to combine and pour into the baking dish.
- Make Pecan Topping: Melt butter and syrup, add pecans, stir to coat, and pour over the oatmeal mixture.
- Bake Oatmeal: Bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes until golden and set. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve & Store: Enjoy warm, or refrigerate for 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave with a splash of milk.
Notes
- You can customize this baked oatmeal with additional toppings like fresh fruit, yogurt, or a drizzle of extra maple syrup.
- For a nut-free version, you can omit the pecans or substitute with seeds or dried fruit.
- This dish is a great make-ahead breakfast option for busy mornings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal, Gluten-Free, Vegan, Oatmeal Recipe, Breakfast Ideas
