4.88 8 Published Oct 24, 2022, Updated Sep 18, 2024 I know cauliflower in oatmeal might sound weird, but you have to trust me on this one! The riced cauliflower adds volume and fiber without adding extra calories or carbs to this baked oatmeal. And since cauliflower has such a neutral flavor you can’t even taste it. Especially with the cocoa powder, chocolate protein powder and chocolate chips… the chocolate flavor definitely overpowers any cauliflower taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Feels like you’re having dessert for breakfast, but is packed with nutritious ingredients. Packed with 18 grams of protein per serving, which will keep you full all morning long. A tasty way to get in your vegetables. Gluten-free, dairy-free and lightly sweetened with just a touch of maple syrup!
Why Add Cauliflower to Your Oatmeal
There are a few reasons to add cauliflower to oatmeal. Cauliflower is a nutrient-dense vegetable that is low in calories, high in fiber and a good source of vitamins C, K and B6. Adding cauliflower to oatmeal can increase the nutrient content and help you to feel fuller longer. Additionally, cauliflower has a mild flavor that will not overpower the taste of the oatmeal, making it a good way to sneak in some extra veggies.
Ingredients Needed
old fashioned rolled oats – I recommend using rolled oats for baked oatmeal. I use Bob’s Red Mill gluten-free rolled oats. Grab gluten-free if needed. egg whites – this adds a nice amount of protein without the added cholesterol from the egg yolks. I prefer to use liquid egg whites instead of separating the egg whites from the yolks because I always end up wasting the yolks! If you don’t have egg whites on hand you can definitely use whole eggs. I would stick to using just 2-3 eggs. For a vegan substitute you can combine ¼ cup ground flax with ½ cup water and let it soak for a few minutes to gel up before adding it to the rest of the ingredients. cocoa powder – this is what adds that delicious chocolatey goodness to this baked oatmeal! Make sure you’re using unsweetened cocoa powder. You can also use cacao powder, but it’s more bitter than cocoa powder. riced cauliflower – for this recipe I used a store-bought 12 ounce bag of riced cauliflower that I steamed in the microwave, but you can easily make your own cauliflower rice at home. chocolate protein powder – adds more chocolate flavor, while also adding plenty of protein! I used Nuzest chocolate protein powder, which is one of my go-to brands. It’s plant-based and has a minimal, clean ingredient list. Plus, the chocolate flavor is delish. You can use my code eatingbirdfood for 15% off your order. almond milk – we’re only using 1/2 cup milk for this baked oatmeal since the egg whites add a good amount of liquid. I prefer to use unsweetened almond milk, but any dairy-free milk will work! baking powder – to help the baked oatmeal rise. sea salt – brings all the flavors together. vanilla extract – a nice flavor enhancer. maple syrup – this is optional, but I preferred this baked oatmeal with a touch of sweetness. If you don’t have maple syrup on hand you could also use honey or agave. For a low-sugar option use liquid stevia or monk fruit maple syrup. chocolate chips – you can never have too much chocolate, am I right?! I like Lily’s chocolate chips for a low-sugar option, or Enjoy Life chocolate chips for a dairy-free + vegan option. You can also use a chopped up chocolate bar! toppings – I like serving this baked oatmeal with a drizzle of nut butter (almond butter and peanut butter are my faves) and maple syrup but feel free to add your favorite toppings. Some other ideas: fresh fruit, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, granola or Greek yogurt. If you want to serve this for dessert it would be delicious with a dollop of coconut whip cream or scoop of vanilla ice cream!
How to Make
Begin by preheating the oven to 375°F and spraying an 8×8 square baking dish with cooking spray. If you haven’t done so already, steam your riced cauliflower according to the package instructions, until soft and tender and set aside to cool. In a large bowl stir together all ingredients except for the chocolate chips. Fold in half of the chocolate chips and carefully pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking pan. Scatter the remaining chocolate on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the oatmeal has set and a toothpick comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Portion and serve with a drizzle of nut butter and maple syrup on top if desired!
What to Serve With Baked Oatmeal
Since this baked oatmeal is packed with protein it makes for a good option for breakfast on its own, but if you want to serve it with some sides here are some ideas:
A savory egg dish – baked egg muffins , egg white bites, dairy-free spinach quiche or kale and feta crustless quiche A fresh fruit salad – easy fruit salad or fruit salad with mint Meat – regular bacon, tempeh bacon, chicken sausage, breakfast sausage or veggie sausage Yogurt – a side yogurt bowl with granola and fresh fruit
How to Store Leftovers
This baked oatmeal is a great meal prep recipe and stores really well in the fridge or freezer. Here’s how to store and reheat:
Store in the fridge: let cool completely and store in an airtight container for 4-5 days. Store in the freezer: let cool completely and store in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When freezing, I recommend cutting the oatmeal into portions, wrapping each in plastic wrap and placing the portions in a large freezer bag. The individual servings make it easier for reheating. To reheat the entire pan of baked oatmeal: cover with foil and reheat in the oven at 350ºF for about 20 minutes or until warm. To reheat individual portions: set oven or toaster oven to 350ºF and bake for 5-10 minutes. You can also reheat in the microwave for 1 minute. Once warm, add your toppings and enjoy!
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Be sure to check out all of my baked oatmeal recipes as well as all of the oatmeal recipes here on EBF!
