Save Few breakfasts are as cozy and fuss-free as these Cinnamon Swirl Baked Oatmeal Cups. They capture everything I love about oatmeal—the warm cinnamon scent and hearty oats—alongside a gooey swirl reminiscent of a fresh cinnamon roll. Baking them in single-serving cups makes busy mornings smoother, and they never fail to disappear fast from my kitchen. They are especially perfect for cool Q4 mornings when you crave both comfort and grab-and-go ease.
I started making these during our back-to-school mornings and everyone in my house loves when I pull them from the oven—the aroma alone feels like a warm hug.
Ingredients
- Rolled oats: choose certified gluten-free oats if needed for a nutty flavor and chewy bite
- Baking powder: ensures a light and fluffy texture in each cup
- Ground cinnamon: infuses warming spice throughout the oatmeal and swirl
- Salt: highlights the sweetness and balances flavor
- Milk of choice: brings creaminess dairy or dairy-free both work
- Large egg: binds everything for a cohesive texture
- Maple syrup or honey: only a touch but it gives natural sweetness and depth
- Melted coconut oil or butter: keeps the oatmeal moist and adds richness
- Vanilla extract: enhances all the flavors for a classic bakery aroma
- Brown sugar: dark or light draws out the gooey cinnamon ribbon
- Chopped pecans or walnuts: the textural crunch on top is optional but adds heartiness
Instructions
- Prepare Your Pan
- Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line with silicone muffin liners Get the pan ready before mixing so the batter retains its lift
- Mix Dry Ingredients
- Whisk together oats baking powder cinnamon and salt in a large mixing bowl Stir well so everything is evenly distributed
- Combine Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl whisk together your milk egg maple syrup melted coconut oil and vanilla extract Mix until the liquids look uniform and smooth
- Blend Wet and Dry
- Pour wet mixture over the dry ingredients Use a big spoon to gently stir until no dry spots remain but do not overmix so the cups stay tender
- Make the Cinnamon Swirl
- In a small bowl mix brown sugar cinnamon and melted butter until it looks like a thick paste
- Fill Muffin Cups and Swirl
- Divide oatmeal batter evenly among muffin cups filling each three quarters to the top Drop a teaspoon of cinnamon swirl in the center of each cup Use a toothpick or skewer to twirl the swirl throughout the batter for a marbled look
- Bake to Perfection
- Place pan in the center of your oven and bake for about 22 to 25 minutes Cups are finished when tops look set and slightly golden and a toothpick comes out with only moist crumbs
- Cool and Garnish
- Let cups cool five minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack If you like top with nuts and a drizzle of maple syrup just before serving
Save For me the vanilla extract is the magic touch I have a vivid memory of making a double batch during a weekend sleepover and the kids cheered when they saw the cinnamon swirl hiding inside each cup
Storage Tips
Store baked oatmeal cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days They reheat beautifully in the microwave for a quick breakfast or snack Cold right from the fridge is delicious too especially with a dollop of yogurt
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap the egg for a flax egg to make it vegan or try applesauce for an egg free twist Use any plant milk almond soy oat or regular dairy milk even works If you are out of maple syrup honey or agave syrup are a great swap
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cups warm and fresh from the oven with a drizzle of maple syrup or a spread of nut butter For an extra cozy breakfast pair with stewed apples or a strong cup of coffee My family likes to top theirs with creamy Greek yogurt or sliced banana
Save Just a little planning gives you bakery-worthy breakfasts all week Enjoy each bite warm and cozy, straight from your oven or out of the freezer on a busy morning
Cooking Questions
- → How do I store leftover oatmeal cups?
Cool the oatmeal cups completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat before serving for best texture.
- → Can these oatmeal cups be made vegan?
Yes, use a flax egg in place of the egg and choose plant-based milk and butter alternatives.
- → How do I achieve the swirl effect?
Add a teaspoon of cinnamon mixture to each muffin cup and gently swirl with a toothpick before baking.
- → Can I add fruit or nuts?
Fold in up to 1/2 cup of fresh berries or chopped apples before baking. Top with chopped nuts if desired.
- → Are these suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, simply use certified gluten-free oats to make these suitable for gluten-free needs.
- → What is the best way to serve these?
Serve warm, optionally topped with maple syrup, nuts, or a little yogurt for extra richness.