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Cranberry Orange Baked Oatmeal – Cozy, Festive and Protein-Packed Holiday Breakfast

Cranberry Orange Baked Oatmeal is the ultimate cozy holiday breakfast—warm, comforting, and filled with bright citrus flavor. Tart cranberries pair beautifully with fragrant orange zest, while baked oats create a soft, cake-like texture that feels indulgent yet nourishing. This recipe is perfect for holiday mornings, brunch gatherings, or meal-prep breakfasts during colder months. Naturally sweetened with maple syrup and boosted with protein, it’s satisfying without being heavy. Finished with a simple orange glaze, this baked oatmeal feels festive enough for celebrations but easy enough for everyday mornings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
bake time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Baked Oatmeal
  • 2 cups rolled oats old-fashioned
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cups milk
  • ⅓ cup maple syrup
  • 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 orange plus optional lemon zest for brightness
  • 9/16 cup orange juice
Orange Glaze (Optional but Recommended)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest
  • 2 –3 tablespoons orange juice
  • These ingredients create baked oatmeal that’s soft lightly sweet, tangy, and perfect for the holidays.

Equipment

  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • 8x8-inch baking dish
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Zester or fine grater
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Make the Baked Oatmeal
Step 1:
  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
Step 2:
  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and orange juice.
Step 3:
  1. Add the vanilla protein powder and whisk until smooth.
Step 4:
  1. Stir in the rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and orange zest.
Step 5:
  1. Fold in the cranberries evenly.
Step 6:
  1. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Step 7:
  1. Bake for 35–40 minutes, until the center is set and the top is lightly golden.
Step 8:
  1. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5–10 minutes.
  2. Make the Orange Glaze
Step 9:
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, orange zest, and orange juice until smooth.
Step 10:
  1. Drizzle the glaze over the warm baked oatmeal just before serving.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
Reheating:
Reheat individual portions in the microwave
Or warm in the oven at low heat
🥄 Variations
Nutty: Add chopped walnuts or pecans
Dairy-free: Use plant-based milk
No glaze: Serve plain or with yogurt
Extra citrus: Add more orange zest
Higher protein: Add an extra half scoop protein powder
Each variation keeps the oatmeal festive, flexible, and comforting.
❓ 10 FAQs
Is this oatmeal sweet?
Lightly sweet with balanced tartness.
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, no need to thaw.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, especially with the glaze.
Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely—great for meal prep.
Does it taste like cake?
Soft and baked, similar to breakfast cake.
Is it healthy?
Yes, whole grains and protein-rich.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, up to 2 months.
What milk works best?
Any milk works well.
Can I skip protein powder?
Yes, texture will still be good.
Is it gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free oats.
🏁 Conclusion
Cranberry Orange Baked Oatmeal brings warmth, comfort, and festive flavor to your breakfast table. With its bright citrus notes, tart cranberries, and cozy baked texture, it’s the perfect dish for slow holiday mornings and busy weekdays alike.
One bite, and it feels like the holidays.