Salted Caramel Baked Oats

Imagine waking up to the smell of warm oats mingling with the rich aroma of golden caramel, gently crisping at the edges. That’s exactly what Salted Caramel Baked Oats bring to the table a cozy, indulgent breakfast that feels like dessert, yet starts your day on the right foot. This recipe is like wrapping yourself in a soft blanket, bite after delicious bite.

Behind the Recipe

The inspiration for these Salted Caramel Baked Oats came from a lazy weekend morning where I wanted something sweet but hearty, indulgent yet nourishing. I remember standing in my kitchen, staring at my pantry, craving something that hit that sweet-and-salty note. Caramel sauce in the fridge, oats in the jar, and a sprinkle of flaky salt on top turned out to be a dream combo. And just like that, a comforting new favorite was born.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Baked oats have been around for ages, with roots in hearty European breakfasts where oats were staples for their affordability and filling nature. But the modern twist of baking them like cake and infusing dessert-inspired flavors like salted caramel? That’s a trend that exploded on social media platforms, especially TikTok, where people realized breakfast could taste like dessert without losing its nutritional value. Salted caramel, with its roots in Brittany, France, adds a luxurious depth and a hint of sophistication to this otherwise humble dish.

Why You’ll Love Salted Caramel Baked Oats

This dish isn’t just breakfast it’s a warm hug on a plate. Here’s why it’s about to become your go-to:

Versatile:
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert and it pairs beautifully with coffee or a dollop of yogurt.

Budget-Friendly:
Made with pantry staples like oats, milk, and eggs. You probably already have everything you need.

Quick and Easy:
Takes just a few minutes to mix and toss in the oven, and the result is magical.

Customizable:
Add nuts, chocolate chips, or swirl in peanut butter it’s your canvas.

Crowd-Pleasing:
Perfect for brunch with friends or weekend family breakfast. Everyone loves it.

Make-Ahead Friendly:
Mix it up the night before and bake in the morning the flavors only get better.

Great for Leftovers:
Just warm it up the next day, and it tastes just as amazing, maybe even better.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

Getting that perfect soft-baked texture with a gooey caramel center is all about the little details:

• Use ripe bananas for natural sweetness and moisture.
• Let the oats soak in the wet mixture for 5 minutes before baking.
• Always use old-fashioned rolled oats, not instant or steel-cut.
• A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top right before serving elevates the flavor.
• For an extra treat, drizzle with warm caramel sauce as soon as it comes out of the oven.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Before we dive in, make sure you’ve got these basics on hand:

Blender or Food Processor: To blend the oats into a smooth batter.

Mixing Bowl: For combining ingredients before blending.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision matters, even in cozy recipes.

Baking Dish or Ramekins: Individual portions or one big bake your choice.

Oven: The magic maker.

Ingredients in Salted Caramel Baked Oats

These ingredients come together to create something truly indulgent and satisfying:

1. Rolled Oats: 1 cup – Forms the hearty base and bakes into a cake-like texture.
2. Ripe Banana: 1 medium – Adds natural sweetness and moisture.
3. Milk: 3/4 cup – Use any kind you like, but oat or almond milk work beautifully.
4. Egg: 1 large – Helps bind everything together.
5. Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon – Gives a light, fluffy lift.
6. Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon – Rounds out the flavors.
7. Salted Caramel Sauce: 1/4 cup + extra for topping – Delivers that rich, sweet-salty kick.
8. Sea Salt Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon – Enhances the caramel and balances sweetness.
9. Coconut Oil or Butter: 1 tablespoon, melted – For added richness and moist texture.
10. Pinch of Cinnamon (optional): Adds warmth and depth.

Ingredient Substitutions

Out of something? No worries here’s how to make it work:

Banana: Unsweetened applesauce.
Milk: Any plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat.
Egg: Flax egg or chia egg for a vegan version.
Salted Caramel Sauce: Maple syrup plus a pinch of sea salt.
Butter or Coconut Oil: Olive oil or melted ghee.

Ingredient Spotlight

Salted Caramel Sauce:
This rich and golden beauty balances sweet and salty like a pro. Its smooth, buttery notes elevate the oats into something truly indulgent.

Rolled Oats:
Not just a breakfast staple, but the star here. When blended, they turn into a batter that bakes up like a tender cake, warm and nourishing.

Instructions for Making Salted Caramel Baked Oats

Let’s turn your kitchen into a cozy café with these easy steps:

1. Preheat Your Equipment:
   Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or ramekins.
2. Combine Ingredients:
   In a blender, combine oats, banana, milk, egg, baking powder, vanilla extract, caramel sauce, salt, and cinnamon if using. Blend until smooth.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
   Pour the mixture into your greased baking dish. Drizzle a little extra caramel on top and gently swirl with a spoon.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   If using ramekins, divide the mixture evenly. Top with a few sea salt flakes for that iconic finish.
5. Cook to Perfection:
   Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out mostly clean.
6. Finishing Touches:
   Let it cool slightly. Drizzle with more warm caramel and a sprinkle of flaky salt if desired.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Best enjoyed warm with a cup of coffee or a scoop of yogurt on the side.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The outside develops a light crust, while the inside stays soft, almost like cake. The banana adds natural sweetness, the caramel seeps into every bite, and that final hit of sea salt balances everything. It’s a warm, fluffy, gooey mix of comfort and decadence.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Always use ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor.
• Let the mixture rest for a few minutes to thicken before baking.
• A little swirl of caramel before baking adds gooey pockets of goodness.
• Bake in individual ramekins for a fun, café-style serving.

What to Avoid

• Avoid using instant oats. They’ll make the texture gummy.
• Don’t overbake. You want it moist and tender, not dry.
• Too much caramel in the batter can cause sogginess. Use it sparingly inside and more on top.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 2
Calories per serving: 360

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can blend the batter the night before and store it covered in the fridge. In the morning, just pour it into your dish and bake. Leftovers can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven or microwave. It also freezes well, just thaw overnight.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Baked Oats

Serve it warm with a generous drizzle of caramel sauce. Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped cream for extra indulgence. Pair it with fresh fruit like sliced bananas or berries, or a hot espresso for the perfect contrast.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Leftovers? Lucky you. Try crumbling it over yogurt for a sweet parfait. Or chop it into cubes and toast them for a crunchy topping on smoothie bowls.

Additional Tips

• Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
• For a dessert twist, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top before baking for a caramelized crust.

Make It a Showstopper

Present it in mini ramekins, each with a drizzle of caramel and a pinch of sea salt. Garnish with a tiny mint leaf or edible flower to make it look bakery-worthy.

Variations to Try

• Chocolate Chip Caramel: Stir in mini chocolate chips before baking.
• Banana Foster Style: Add a splash of vanilla and cinnamon, then top with sautéed bananas.
• Apple Pie Inspired: Mix in diced apples and a dash of nutmeg.
• Peanut Butter Swirl: Drop dollops of peanut butter before baking and swirl.
• Vegan Version: Use plant milk and flax egg, and make sure your caramel sauce is dairy-free.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make this without a blender?
A1: Yes, just mash the banana well and mix everything thoroughly by hand. The texture will be more rustic but still delicious.

Q2: Can I double the recipe?
A2: Absolutely. Just use a larger baking dish and add 5–10 minutes to the baking time.

Q3: Can I use steel-cut oats?
A3: No, they won’t cook through properly. Stick with rolled oats for best texture.

Q4: Can I freeze it?
A4: Yes. Slice, wrap, and freeze. Just reheat in the oven or microwave.

Q5: Can I make it vegan?
A5: Yes. Replace the egg with a flax egg and use plant-based milk and vegan caramel.

Q6: What can I use instead of banana?
A6: Applesauce is a great swap and keeps the texture moist.

Q7: How sweet is this recipe?
A7: It’s naturally sweet from banana and caramel. You can adjust by using less caramel if preferred.

Q8: Can I prep this the night before?
A8: Definitely. Just store the batter in the fridge and bake in the morning.

Q9: What type of caramel sauce should I use?
A9: Use a thick, pourable caramel homemade or store-bought both work.

Q10: Is it gluten-free?
A10: Yes, if you use certified gluten-free oats.

Conclusion

This Salted Caramel Baked Oats recipe takes everything you love about breakfast and dessert and brings them together in one warm, gooey, satisfying bite. Whether you’re making it for a cozy morning in or wowing your brunch guests, trust me, this one’s a total game-changer. So grab your spoon and dive in it’s worth every bite.

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