Simple Vegan Baked Oats – Recipes from Veggie World
This vegan baked oats recipe offers a simple and adaptable breakfast or snack option! Ideal for those busy weeks when you crave something indulgent but healthy, these oats are easy to prepare and conveniently portable.

Baked oatmeal truly simplifies meal prep! If you’re always on the go, you’ll appreciate having make-ahead options ready for those chaotic mornings. My experiences with this Banana Baked Oatmeal and Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bake have been delightful. However, this recipe combines traditional oats with oat flour to create delectable vegan oatmeal bars, featuring a soft, creamy center, perfect for easing hectic mornings.
Ingredients Needed
Check out these simple components for this delightful breakfast recipe. For complete details, refer to the recipe card below.
- Oats: This recipe utilizes both rolled oats and oat flour, ensuring a creamy texture complemented by a satisfying chewiness.
- Ripe Banana: Mashed bananas add moisture, flavor, and natural sweetness – remember, the riper the banana, the sweeter it will be!
- Peanut Butter: My preference is for creamy natural peanut butter, though chunky varieties work as well. Opt for natural versions without added sugars, but if you choose sweetened peanut butter, adjust your maple syrup accordingly.
- Maple Syrup: A less refined sugar option that contributes depth of flavor. Brown sugar can be used as an alternative.
- Dairy-Free Milk: Choose your preferred plant-based milk, but avoid flavored or sweetened options to maintain the intended taste.
- Ground Flax Seeds: These create a flax egg that helps bind the mixture together; chia seeds can also be used.
- Baking Powder: Just a sprinkle to help the baked oats rise while cooking.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds sweetness, warmth, and aroma; opt for pure extract for the best outcome.
- Chocolate Chips: Use your favorite vegan chocolate chips, and consider reserving some to sprinkle on top before baking.
Baked Oats Variations
Feel free to customize this recipe to your liking!
- Gluten-Free: While oats are inherently gluten-free, they may be processed in facilities that handle gluten grains. To ensure the recipe is gluten-free, choose certified gluten-free oats and flour.
- Alternate Nut Butters: Mix things up with different nut butters, such as cashew or almond butter.
- Add Nuts or Dried Fruit: Substitute the chocolate chips with ingredients like chopped pecans, walnuts, dried cranberries, or even coconut flakes.
- Banana-Free Option: Replace bananas with an equivalent amount of applesauce or pumpkin puree for a slight change in sweetness.
- Spice it Up! Enhance flavor by incorporating spices like cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice.
- Protein Boost: For added protein, consider mixing in a tablespoon or two of hemp seeds for healthy fats as well.
Instructions for Making Vegan Baked Oats
Ready to begin? This vegan oatmeal bake takes only about five minutes to prepare before going into the oven. Below are the highlighted steps, but for complete guidance, check the recipe card later on.
- Mash the bananas: In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas, then add the peanut butter, maple syrup, milk, flax, baking powder, vanilla, salt, oats, and oat flour. Mix thoroughly.
- Incorporate Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the chocolate chips.
- Prepare the Baking Tray: Line a baking tray with parchment paper and pour the oat mixture into the pan. Feel free to sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top.
- Bake: Place the tray in a preheated oven and bake for 25-28 minutes at 350°F. Once done, cut the baked oats into squares for serving!
Storage Instructions
- Leftovers: Store remaining baked oats in the fridge in an airtight container for up to five days, or freeze them for up to three months. I like to freeze portions individually for easy access.
- Reheating: Enjoy these oatmeal bars warm or chilled. For warming, the microwave is a quick option. If frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Recipe Tips
- Adjust Chocolate Chips: If you’re not as fond of chocolate, you can reduce the amount to suit your preference.
- Creative Variations: This recipe is forgiving, so feel free to experiment with different mix-ins to suit your taste; check previous sections for suggested changes.
- Serving Suggestions: These baked oats make for a good on-the-go breakfast or a healthy snack, whether served warm or cold. Consider topping them with maple syrup or fresh fruit for extra flavor!
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! If you prefer a muffin format, simply use a 12-cup muffin pan, ensuring you line or generously grease it. Pour the mixture as desired, filling each about halfway. Bake for a reduced time since muffins will cook faster.
Yes, quick oats can be used, but they will yield a less complex texture. I recommend using old-fashioned rolled oats for the best result.