If you’ve been searching for a comforting yet wholesome breakfast that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, you’re in for a treat. This Vegan Baked Peanut Butter Oatmeal Recipe is hands down one of my go-to mornings when I want something hearty, nourishing, and bursting with flavor. It’s got that creamy peanut butter goodness, cozy cinnamon warmth, and a sweet touch from jam that’ll take you right back to childhood breakfasts — only better because it’s completely plant-based and gluten free. Trust me, keep reading because you’ll want to make this a regular in your breakfast rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty & Nourishing: This recipe packs protein and fiber to keep you full and energized all morning long.
- Easy Prep & Allergy-Friendly: Made gluten free and vegan, plus it’s simple enough for busy mornings or weekend brunches.
- Comfort in Every Bite: Peanut butter and cinnamon combine to create that warm, nostalgic flavor you’ll crave again and again.
- Flexible & Customizable: You can swap the jam flavors or add nuts and fruits to fit your mood or pantry staples.
Ingredients You’ll Need
I love how these ingredients come together to create such a creamy, flavorful baked oatmeal. The flaxseed acts as a perfect egg substitute, while the applesauce adds a natural sweetness and moisture without overpowering the peanut butter star.
- Ground flax seeds: This is our egg substitute here, so let it soak in water for a few minutes to get that perfect gel-like consistency.
- Gluten free rolled oats: I always reach for rolled oats instead of instant—they hold their shape better in baking and give a nice chewy texture.
- Baking powder: Just a little to help give the oats a light fluffiness.
- Cinnamon: It pairs amazingly with peanut butter and adds that cozy warmth you want in a baked oatmeal.
- Non-dairy milk: Any plant milk works, from almond to oat to soy—whatever you have on hand will do.
- Applesauce: Keeps the dish moist and naturally sweet without extra processed sugar.
- Peanut butter: Creamy and rich, this is the star that makes every bite heavenly—chunky works too if you like texture!
- Vanilla extract: Just a splash to elevate all the flavors.
- Maple syrup: Adjust this depending on your sweetness preference.
- Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Chia jam: You can also swap for any jam or fruit preserves you love.
Variations
One of the things I love most about this Vegan Baked Peanut Butter Oatmeal Recipe is how easy it is to make your own. Whether you want to sneak in some extra fruit or experiment with different nut butters, there’s room to play.
- Berry Nut Twist: I often swirl in fresh or frozen berries before baking for that extra burst of fruity goodness—my family goes crazy for this combo.
- Almond Butter Swap: Tried swapping the peanut butter for almond butter once, and it gave a subtly different nuttiness that was equally delicious.
- Spiced Up: Adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger can amp up the warm spice profile if you like a little zing.
- Chunky Texture: Tossing in chopped nuts or vegan chocolate chips before baking adds texture and fun surprises in every bite.
How to Make Vegan Baked Peanut Butter Oatmeal Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Flax “Egg”
Start by mixing the ground flax seeds with water and letting it sit for about 5 minutes. This thickens into a gel that works as the perfect vegan binder. If you’re short on time, just mix this first and get everything else ready while it firms up.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, salt, cinnamon, and baking powder. I like to make sure these are well combined before adding the wet ingredients — it helps distribute the flavors evenly throughout every bite.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add your non-dairy milk, applesauce, peanut butter, vanilla extract, maple syrup, and the thickened flax egg into the bowl with the oats. Stir everything together until it looks beautifully blended — you’ll notice the peanut butter softening the mixture and bringing it all together.
Step 4: Bake It Up
Pour your oatmeal mix into a greased or lined 9×9 baking dish. Now comes the fun part — dollop your chosen chia jam right on top! You can swirl it in gently if you want, or spread it in dollops and get those sweet pockets of jam as you bake. I usually add a little extra peanut butter on top before baking and then again after — it melts into a dreamy peanut buttery layer.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. After baking, let it cool for about 10 minutes — this helps it set up nicely and makes it easier to serve.
Pro Tips for Making Vegan Baked Peanut Butter Oatmeal Recipe
- Don’t Skip the Flax Soak: Giving the flaxseed time to thicken exactly right is what keeps the oatmeal from crumbling.
- Peanut Butter Texture Matters: Creamy peanut butter blends more evenly, but if you love some crunch, chunky is a fun way to add texture.
- Jam Timing: Adding jam on top before baking gives warm pockets of sweet flavor, but you can also swirl it in or spread after baking for more pronounced bursts.
- Check Doneness Early: Baking times can vary, so start checking at 25 minutes so you don’t overbake and dry it out.
How to Serve Vegan Baked Peanut Butter Oatmeal Recipe
Garnishes
I usually top mine with a swirl of extra peanut butter and a generous spoonful of fresh chia jam to make each bite a little extra special. Fresh berries or sliced bananas are another favorite of mine—they add a touch of brightness and texture that balances the richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
If you’re serving this for brunch, I like pairing it with a side of fresh fruit salad or a handful of roasted nuts. Sometimes a hot cup of chai tea or coffee rounds out the cozy vibe perfectly!
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, I’ve served this baked oatmeal in individual ramekins topped with a drizzle of peanut butter and a sprig of fresh mint for a pretty, restaurant-style look. Layered in jars with alternating oatmeal and jam makes a fun grab-and-go breakfast that guests love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftover baked oatmeal covered tightly in the fridge for up to 4 days. It holds its texture surprisingly well, and I usually just pop a piece in the microwave for a minute or so when I’m ready to eat.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully! I slice it into portions, wrap them individually in plastic wrap or freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. It’s a game changer for busy mornings when you want homemade but have zero prep time.
Reheating
I like reheating frozen or refrigerated slices in the microwave just until warmed through. Adding a splash of plant milk before heating helps revive its creamy texture so it doesn’t dry out or get rubbery.
FAQs
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Can I use peanut butter alternatives in this Vegan Baked Peanut Butter Oatmeal Recipe?
Absolutely! Almond butter, cashew butter, or even sunflower seed butter can work well if you prefer a different flavor or have allergies. Just make sure to pick a creamy version for the best texture.
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Is this recipe gluten free?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten free rolled oats, this recipe is completely gluten free and suitable for most dietary sensitivities.
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Can I make this recipe ahead of time for weekday breakfasts?
Definitely. You can bake it ahead, refrigerate or freeze portions, and simply reheat when you need a quick, wholesome breakfast.
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What if I don’t have chia jam? Can I substitute something else?
You can use any jam or fruit preserves you love. Raspberry, strawberry, or even a homemade mixed berry jam all make fantastic alternatives.
Final Thoughts
This Vegan Baked Peanut Butter Oatmeal Recipe has become one of my absolute favorites to whip up when I want something cozy, wholesome, and everyday comforting. It’s like a nostalgic flashback to childhood breakfasts but made better with whole-food ingredients and zero fuss. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do — it’s one of those dishes that feels special, but is totally doable any day of the week. So grab your ingredients, warm up your oven, and let this recipe bring a little extra sunshine to your mornings!
Print
Vegan Baked Peanut Butter Oatmeal Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Vegan Baked PB & J Oatmeal is a wholesome, comforting breakfast that combines the nostalgic flavors of peanut butter and jelly with hearty oats. Made with gluten-free rolled oats, non-dairy milk, and natural ingredients like flax seeds and chia jam, this baked oatmeal offers a nutritious, vegan-friendly start to your day. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for meal prepping or family breakfasts.
Ingredients
Flax Egg
- 1 tablespoon ground flax seeds
- 3 tablespoons water
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups gluten free rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 cups non-dairy milk (such as almond or oat milk)
- 1/3 cup apple sauce
- 3 tablespoons peanut butter (plus more for topping)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2-4 tablespoons maple syrup (adjust to taste)
Toppings
- 1/3 cup chia jam
- Extra peanut butter (optional)
- Fresh berries (for serving, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the right temperature while you prepare the oatmeal mixture.
- Make Flax Egg: In a small bowl, combine the ground flax seeds with water and set aside for about 5 minutes to thicken, creating a flax egg that acts as a vegan binder in the recipe.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the gluten-free rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and flavors.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Once the flax egg has thickened, add it along with the non-dairy milk, apple sauce, peanut butter, vanilla extract, and maple syrup into the dry ingredients bowl. Stir thoroughly until well combined.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Transfer the oatmeal mixture into a greased or parchment-lined 9×9 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Toppings: Spoon the chia jam over the top of the oatmeal. You can also add extra peanut butter now or wait to add it after baking according to your preference.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. Serve warm topped with fresh berries, extra peanut butter, and additional chia jam or your favorite jam.
Notes
- This vegan baked oatmeal is nostalgic and comforting, resembling childhood flavors made with wholesome ingredients.
- It’s naturally gluten free when using gluten free oats, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- You can adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup to your liking.
- Try topping with different jams or fresh fruit for variation.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated for quick breakfasts throughout the week.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/6 of recipe)
- Calories: 285 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 8.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 39.2 g
- Fiber: 6.7 g
- Protein: 9.1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg