Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal (Gluten-Free, Vegan-Friendly) Recipe

Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal: A Cozy Morning Recipe

Pecan pie baked oatmeal brings the nostalgic warmth of Southern desserts into a nutritious breakfast experience.

Sweet maple undertones merge seamlessly with rich, toasted pecans in this comforting morning dish.

Our gluten-free and vegan-friendly creation redefines traditional pie flavors into a wholesome breakfast celebration.

Hearty oats absorb decadent caramel-like notes while delivering satisfying texture and remarkable depth.

Nutritional powerhouses like nuts and whole grains contribute robust flavor and substantial energy.

Each spoonful promises a delightful balance between indulgence and wellness, blending classic comfort with modern dietary considerations.

Breakfast enthusiasts seeking a guilt-free treat will adore this innovative culinary masterpiece.

Variations to Make Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal Even More Indulgent

  • Caramel Crunch Oatmeal Bake: Replace maple syrup with caramel sauce and sprinkle crushed graham crackers on top for added texture and sweetness.
  • Apple Cinnamon Pecan Edition: Mix diced apples into the oatmeal base and increase cinnamon quantity for a warm, autumnal flavor profile.
  • Chocolate Pecan Breakfast Bar: Incorporate dark chocolate chips into the oatmeal mixture and drizzle melted chocolate over the finished bake for a decadent morning treat.
  • Coconut Tropical Remix: Swap milk with coconut milk, add shredded coconut to the oatmeal base, and top with toasted coconut flakes for a tropical-inspired breakfast experience.

Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal That Brings Dessert Vibes to Breakfast

  • Indulge in Breakfast Comfort: This pecan pie baked oatmeal transforms ordinary morning meals into a delightful, warm hug of flavor that feels like dessert for breakfast.
  • Customize with Ease: Perfectly adaptable for different dietary needs, the recipe welcomes gluten-free and vegan modifications without sacrificing rich, satisfying taste.
  • Quick and Hassle-Free Preparation: With just one bowl and minimal ingredients, you can whip up this delicious breakfast in under an hour, making it ideal for busy mornings or leisurely weekend brunches.
  • Nutritious and Decadent Combo: Packed with hearty oats, protein-rich pecans, and natural sweeteners, this dish balances wholesome nutrition with the indulgent essence of a classic pecan pie.

Nutty and Cozy Ingredients for Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal

Base Ingredients:
  • Rolled Oats: Hearty whole grain base that provides texture and nutrition, choose gluten-free if needed.
  • Baking Powder: Helps the oatmeal rise and become fluffy, ensure it's fresh for best results.
  • Cinnamon: Warm spice that adds depth and classic flavor to the dish.
  • Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness.
Liquid and Binding Ingredients:
  • Milk, Egg or Chia/Flax Egg: Provides moisture and binding, choose plant-based options for vegan version.
  • Maple Syrup: Natural sweetener with rich flavor, pure maple syrup recommended.
  • Melted Butter or Oil: Adds richness and helps create a smooth texture, can use coconut oil for vegan option.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds subtle depth and aromatic flavor to the dish.
Topping Ingredients:
  • Pecans, Butter, Maple Syrup: Create a caramelized, crunchy topping that gives the dish a pecan pie-like flavor, toast pecans lightly for enhanced taste.

How to Bake Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal Like a Pro

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Baking Dish

Warm up your oven to 350°F. Lovingly coat an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Dry Oatmeal Base

Grab a spacious mixing bowl and combine:
  • Rolled oats
  • Baking powder
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Sea salt

Gently mix these dry ingredients until they’re evenly distributed.

Step 3: Blend Wet Ingredients

Pour into the dry mixture:
  • Plant-based milk
  • Pure maple syrup
  • Egg replacement (chia or flax seed mixture)
  • Melted coconut oil
  • Vanilla extract

Whisk everything together until smooth and well-incorporated.

Step 4: Spread Oatmeal Mixture

Transfer the oatmeal blend into your prepared baking dish, using a spatula to create an even surface.

Step 5: Craft Pecan Topping

In a small saucepan, melt:
  • Butter or vegan butter
  • Maple syrup

Fold in whole pecans, ensuring they’re completely coated with the sweet mixture.

Step 6: Add Pecan Layer

Drizzle the pecan mixture over the oatmeal base, spreading it carefully for a beautiful, even coverage.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Look for a golden-brown top and a set texture.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the baked oatmeal rest for 5 minutes. Slice into portions and enjoy warm, perhaps with an extra drizzle of maple syrup.

Tips to Keep Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal Rich Yet Balanced

  • Soak Oats for Creaminess: Briefly soak rolled oats in milk for 10-15 minutes before mixing to create a softer, more luxurious texture.
  • Choose Quality Pecans: Select fresh, plump pecans and lightly toast them beforehand to enhance their rich, nutty flavor and add depth to the dish.
  • Perfect Egg Substitute: When using chia or flax egg, let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to thicken and bind ingredients effectively for a consistent result.
  • Prevent Burning: Cover the top with aluminum foil halfway through baking if the pecans start browning too quickly to ensure even golden coloration.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the entire dish night before and refrigerate, then bake in the morning for a convenient and delicious breakfast with minimal morning prep.

Reheat and Enjoy Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal the Next Morning

  • Refrigerate: Store cooled baked oatmeal in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
  • Freeze: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month.
  • Reheat: Microwave refrigerated or thawed portions for 30-45 seconds until warm, or warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to restore crispy pecan topping.

Coffee, Fruits, and Pairings for Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal

  • Brew the Perfect Coffee Companion: Pair this pecan pie baked oatmeal with a rich, medium-roast coffee that complements the nutty, sweet flavors. The warm, smooth coffee will enhance the caramelized pecan topping and bring out the subtle cinnamon notes.
  • Craft a Creamy Yogurt Sidekick: Top the baked oatmeal with a dollop of velvety Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative. The tangy, cool yogurt will provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, sweet oatmeal and add a creamy texture.
  • Create a Fresh Fruit Boost: Sprinkle fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries around the dish. The bright, tart fruit will cut through the richness of the pecans and add a vibrant pop of color and nutrition to the breakfast.
  • Mix a Maple Smoothie Treat: Blend a quick maple-banana smoothie as a side drink. The smooth, sweet flavors will echo the maple syrup in the baked oatmeal and provide a delightful, refreshing morning beverage.
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Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal (Gluten-Free, Vegan-Friendly) Recipe

Pecan Pie Baked Oatmeal (Gluten-Free, Vegan-Friendly) Recipe


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4.8 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Pecan pie baked oatmeal blends classic Southern comfort with wholesome breakfast magic. Maple-glazed pecans crown a creamy, gluten-free base that brings warmth and indulgence to morning tables, inviting you to savor each delightful spoonful.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups rolled oats (certified gluten-free, if needed)
  • 2 cups milk (unsweetened almond milk)
  • 1 cup pecans (roughly chopped or whole)
  • ¼ cup pure maple syrup

Binding and Flavor Ingredients:

  • 1 egg (or 1 chia or flax egg for vegan)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (or vegan butter, or coconut oil), melted
  • 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract

Dry Seasoning and Leavening Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Pecan Topping:

  • 2 tablespoons butter (or vegan butter)
  • ¼ cup pure maple syrup

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven environment by heating to 350°F and coating a 2-quart baking dish with a light grease layer for optimal non-stick performance.
  2. Combine dry ingredients in a spacious mixing bowl, thoroughly blending rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt until evenly distributed.
  3. Incorporate liquid components into the dry mixture, whisking milk, maple syrup, egg alternative, melted butter, and vanilla extract until a smooth, cohesive texture emerges.
  4. Transfer the oatmeal blend into the prepared baking dish, ensuring an uniform spread across the surface.
  5. Create a luxurious pecan topping by gently melting butter and maple syrup in a saucepan, then folding pecans into the warm mixture until completely coated.
  6. Delicately cascade the pecan mixture over the oatmeal base, using a spatula to distribute the nutty layer evenly.
  7. Position the baking dish in the preheated oven, allowing the dish to bake for 35-40 minutes until the oatmeal sets and develops a golden-brown surface.
  8. After removing from the oven, permit the baked oatmeal to rest and slightly cool for approximately 5 minutes before serving in individual portions or scoops.

Notes

  • Versatile breakfast option that caters to gluten-free and vegan dietary needs with simple ingredient swaps.
  • Prepare a chia or flax egg as a plant-based binding alternative for those avoiding traditional eggs.
  • Create a make-ahead meal by storing in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, reheating individual portions in the microwave.
  • Customize the recipe by adding extra toppings like fresh berries, sliced bananas, or a drizzle of additional maple syrup.
  • Ensure even baking and golden-brown top by spreading the pecan mixture carefully across the oatmeal base.
  • Best served warm for maximum flavor and optimal texture, with a creamy interior and crunchy pecan topping.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 14 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
David Bennett

David Bennett

Founder & Head Recipe Developer

Expertise

Culinary Nutrition​, Recipe Development​, Nutritional Counseling​, Food Science​

Education

Johnson & Wales University

  • Degree: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Nutrition
  • Focus: Blending culinary arts with nutritional science to create health-focused cuisine.

Certified Nutrition Specialist® (CNS®)

  • Credential: Advanced certification in personalized nutrition therapy. ​

David Bennett is the lead recipe creator and nutrition expert at HealthyChoices.org, your friendly space for tasty meals that nourish body and mind. 

With a Culinary Nutrition degree from Johnson & Wales University and a Certified Nutrition Specialist® credential, David pairs practical nutrition with delicious cooking, creating recipes you’ll crave daily. 

At Healthy Choices, David shares easy, nutritious dishes and smart cooking tips to make healthy eating something everyone can enjoy, with no complicated diets needed.

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