Delicious Red Velvet Baked Oatmeal: A Healthy & Colorful Vegan Breakfast

Discover the joy of Red Velvet Baked Oatmeal, a vibrant and nutritious breakfast crafted with natural beets, rich cacao powder, and delightful chocolate chips. Perfect for meal prep, bake this easy recipe in under an hour for a truly delicious and eye-catching start to your day!

Life often feels like a delicate dance between pushing forward and pulling back, a constant negotiation of what we dedicate our time and energy to. When new opportunities or projects present themselves, a common question arises: “Is this truly the *right* time?” Sometimes, the answer is a resounding yes – our energy aligns, our schedule is open, and we feel an immediate pull to begin. These moments are clear, like following a yellow brick road.

More often, however, the path isn’t so clearly illuminated. It can be challenging to accept that for many endeavors, there isn’t an inherently “right” time; there is only the time we consciously choose to create. Grand tasks, like relocating, starting a family, or even tackling the notoriously daunting attic organization, can feel too overwhelming to consider in the present moment, causing us to defer them indefinitely.

Yet, for other passions, we find ourselves pursuing them with relentless dedication. Whether it’s embracing a new furry family member, nurturing a small business, or sharing the practice of yoga, we take charge, sculpting these significant chapters in our lives. We possess the remarkable autonomy to define our journey, rather than being defined by circumstance.

It’s with this philosophy in mind that I’m thrilled to announce a new chapter in my own journey: I’ve officially registered for my YTT 300-hour teacher training, set to begin this April! Five years have passed since I completed my initial 200-hour certification, and my hunger for deeper yoga knowledge and a more profound understanding of the practice has grown exponentially. I’m incredibly excited to integrate this advanced learning into my classes and share it with my students.

And speaking of hunger, I’m also craving a truly special breakfast. While Valentine’s Day has come and gone, my commitment to incorporating vibrant pink and red hues into my food persists, at least for the remainder of February. After a recent bout of illness, nourishing and comforting breakfasts have become a staple, and baked oatmeal has emerged as a particularly cozy and satisfying choice.

This brings me to the star of today’s post: Red Velvet Baked Oatmeal. This incredible dish isn’t just visually stunning with its deep, rich red color; it’s also packed with wholesome ingredients like earthy beets, antioxidant-rich cacao powder, and decadent dark chocolate chips. It’s a delightful, colorful, and surprisingly healthy way to start your day. The best part? You can bake this vibrant breakfast in under an hour, making it perfect for busy mornings or leisurely weekends.

Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Baked Oatmeal Recipe

This Red Velvet Baked Oatmeal recipe is more than just a beautiful breakfast; it’s a wholesome, satisfying, and convenient option for anyone looking to add a touch of color and nourishment to their morning routine. Here’s why it’s bound to become a new favorite:

• Naturally Vibrant: Forget artificial colors! The stunning red hue comes entirely from cooked beets, offering a boost of nutrients without any synthetic additives.
• Rich Chocolate Flavor: Raw cacao powder provides a deep, authentic chocolate taste that perfectly complements the subtle earthiness of the beets.
• Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with fiber from oats and flaxseed, healthy fats from SunButter, and antioxidants from cacao and beets, this breakfast is designed to keep you feeling full and energized.
• Vegan & Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free and gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences and needs.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common pantry ingredients, you can whip up this baked oatmeal with minimal effort, even on a busy morning.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Bake a batch on the weekend, and you’ll have delicious, ready-to-eat breakfasts for the entire week, saving you precious time.
• Deliciously Customizable: While incredible on its own, this baked oatmeal is also a fantastic base for your favorite toppings, from fresh berries to extra drizzles of nut butter.

Essential Ingredients for Red Velvet Baked Oatmeal

Creating these delightful Red Velvet Baked Oats is surprisingly simple, relying on a handful of wholesome ingredients that come together to form a truly special breakfast. Gather these items to bring this colorful dish to your breakfast table:

• Ground Flaxseed: This acts as our vegan egg binder, creating “flax eggs” that help hold the oatmeal together while adding healthy omega-3 fatty acids and fiber.
• Unsweetened Almond Milk: Our preferred plant-based liquid, providing a creamy base without added sugars. Feel free to use your favorite non-dairy milk.
• Pure Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that adds a subtle warmth and balances the flavors.
• Cooked Beets: The secret to the beautiful red velvet color! Beets also contribute a mild earthy sweetness and a host of nutrients. Using pre-cooked, peeled beets (often found vacuum-sealed in grocery stores) will significantly cut down on prep time.
• Organic SunButter: This creamy sunflower seed butter adds richness, healthy fats, and a significant boost of plant-based protein. It’s an excellent allergy-friendly alternative to peanut butter.
• Raw Cacao Powder: For that signature rich chocolate flavor and an extra punch of antioxidants.
• Gluten-Free Old-Fashioned Oats: The hearty base of our baked oatmeal, providing sustained energy and fiber. Ensure they are certified gluten-free if you have sensitivities.
• Dairy-Free Dark Chocolate Chips: These melt into pockets of pure chocolatey goodness, enhancing the “velvet” experience. Plus, a few extra for topping are always a good idea!

That’s truly all you need for this delicious and vibrant breakfast!

How to Make This Delicious Red Velvet Baked Oatmeal

Get ready to create a masterpiece for your breakfast table! This Red Velvet Baked Oatmeal recipe is straightforward, ensuring you can enjoy a wholesome, homemade meal with ease. Follow these steps for perfect results:

1. Prepare Your Baking Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, prepare a 9×9 inch square baking dish. You can either line it with parchment paper for easy removal or lightly grease it with coconut oil to prevent sticking.
2. Blend the Wet Ingredients: In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the ground flaxseed (to create two flax eggs with 6 tablespoons of water, if not pre-made), unsweetened almond milk, pure maple syrup, the puréed cooked beets, Organic SunButter, and raw cacao powder. Blend these ingredients until the mixture is completely smooth and wonderfully creamy. This step is crucial for achieving that consistent red velvet texture and color throughout the oatmeal. While you can cook and peel your own beets, I highly recommend using pre-cooked beets to save valuable time – they work perfectly!
3. Combine with Oats: Pour the beautifully colored, blended mixture into a large mixing bowl. Add the gluten-free old-fashioned oats and stir everything thoroughly until the oats are evenly coated and well-combined with the wet ingredients.
4. Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the dairy-free dark chocolate chips. Mix just enough to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the oatmeal batter. Don’t be shy here; chocolate chips are a key component of the red velvet experience!
5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the oatmeal mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. This ensures uniform baking. For an extra touch of indulgence and visual appeal, I highly recommend topping the surface with even more dark chocolate chips – because why not make it extra special?
6. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes. The oatmeal is ready when the top is beautifully golden brown and set. Remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This cooling time allows the oatmeal to firm up and makes for easier portioning.
7. Store for Later: For meal prep, allow the baked oatmeal to cool completely before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to one week, ready to be reheated and enjoyed.

Spotlight on Organic SunButter

A key ingredient that truly elevates these baked oats, making them exceptionally creamy and rich, is the addition of Organic SunButter. This fantastic 1-ingredient sunflower seed butter is a powerhouse, brimming with plant-based protein and healthy fats, contributing to a truly satisfying breakfast.

What makes SunButter particularly special in this recipe is its wonderfully neutral flavor profile. Unlike some other nut or seed butters that can be quite dominant, Organic SunButter allows the delicate and distinctive red velvet notes from the beets and cacao to shine through beautifully. It enhances the overall texture without overpowering the unique taste of the dish.

Made exclusively from organic roasted sunflower seeds, this creamy seed butter is the perfect neutral addition to baked oats, providing a smooth, velvety consistency that’s both comforting and nourishing. Beyond incorporating it into the batter, don’t hesitate to double up on the deliciousness! A generous drizzle of SunButter over your warm, finished Red Velvet Baked Oatmeal adds an extra layer of decadence and a boost of nutrition that’s simply irresistible.

Customization and Substitutions for Your Baked Oatmeal

This Red Velvet Baked Oatmeal recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing for several swaps and substitutions to fit your pantry, preferences, or dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

• Baking Dish Size: If you don’t have a 9×9 inch baking dish, any similarly sized oven-safe dish will work. Just keep in mind that a larger dish will result in thinner baked oats, which means a shorter baking time. For example, if you use a 9×13 inch casserole dish, you’ll likely need to decrease the bake time by 10-15 minutes. Always keep an eye on it to ensure it’s golden brown and set, but not dried out.
• Chocolate Chips: While I love the indulgence of dairy-free dark chocolate chips, you can absolutely customize this. Feel free to omit them entirely for a less sweet option, or swap them out for other mix-ins like chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans would be delicious), seeds (like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for added crunch), or even dried cranberries for an extra tart burst.
• Plant-Based Milk: Almond milk is my go-to for its neutral flavor and creamy texture, but any plant-based milk will work beautifully. Soy milk, oat milk, or cashew milk are all excellent alternatives that will lend their own unique subtle flavors to the dish.
• Sweeteners: If you prefer, you can experiment with other liquid sweeteners like agave nectar or brown rice syrup instead of maple syrup. Adjust the amount to your desired sweetness level.
• Beet Preparation: While pre-cooked beets are a time-saver, if you prefer to cook your own, simply steam or boil fresh beets until tender, then peel and purée them until smooth.

Effortless Meal Prep with Red Velvet Baked Oatmeal

One of the most appealing aspects of this Red Velvet Baked Oatmeal is how perfectly it lends itself to meal preparation. If you’re looking to streamline your morning routine and ensure a healthy, delicious breakfast is always on hand, this recipe is your answer!

• Advance Preparation: You can easily bake a full batch on a Sunday evening, and you’ll have wholesome breakfasts ready to go for the entire week. This eliminates the morning rush and decision-making, allowing you to enjoy a nourishing meal even on your busiest days.
• Refrigerator Storage: Once the baked oatmeal has completely cooled, simply transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to one week. When you’re ready to eat, you can either enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge or gently reheat it.
• Grab-and-Go Portions: For ultimate convenience, consider pre-slicing the cooled baked oats into individual squares or rectangles before storing. This makes for a perfect grab-and-go option – just take a slice and you’re set! Alternatively, you can simply slice as you go throughout the week.
• Freezer-Friendly: This baked oatmeal is also freezer-friendly, extending its shelf life even further. Once cooled, slice the oatmeal into individual portions, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well in the freezer for several months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw a slice overnight in the refrigerator or reheat directly from frozen in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This makes it an ideal solution for those who like to have a stash of healthy breakfasts ready at a moment’s notice.

Delicious Ways to Serve Your Red Velvet Baked Oatmeal

Once your beautiful Red Velvet Baked Oatmeal is out of the oven, allow it to cool for a few minutes. This brief cooling period helps it to set, making for cleaner slices and a more enjoyable texture.

This baked oatmeal is designed to be a versatile and delightful pre-baked breakfast. You have several options for enjoying it:

• Chilled or Warm: While you can certainly enjoy it chilled straight from the refrigerator, my absolute favorite way to savor this Red Velvet Baked Oatmeal is to reheat it. A quick warm-up in the microwave or a few minutes in a toaster oven brings out its comforting qualities and makes the chocolate chips delightfully melty.
• Simple & Satisfying: It’s absolutely delicious on its own, providing a complete and satisfying meal without any additions. The rich flavors of chocolate, beets, and oats are perfectly balanced.
• Elevate with Toppings: To truly enhance the experience, I love serving mine with a dollop of creamy almond milk yogurt for a tangy contrast, and a generous spoonful of crunchy granola for added texture.
• Fruity Freshness: Fresh red berries, like raspberries or sliced strawberries, are a perfect pairing. Their bright, tart notes complement the sweet, earthy oatmeal beautifully and add another layer of vibrant color and freshness.
• Extra Decadence: For an even more luxurious touch, add a luscious drizzle of extra Organic SunButter right before serving. This boosts the healthy fats and protein, and adds an irresistible creaminess.
• Serving Size: This recipe typically yields 4-6 servings, depending on how generously you slice it. It’s perfect for sharing with family or enjoying throughout the week as part of your meal prep.

However you choose to enjoy it, this Red Velvet Baked Oatmeal is sure to bring a smile to your face. Enjoy!

More Delicious Baked Oats Recipes to Try

If you’ve fallen in love with the convenience and deliciousness of baked oatmeal, you’re in luck! There’s a whole world of flavors to explore beyond this Red Velvet delight. Baked oats are incredibly versatile, offering endless possibilities for seasonal ingredients and creative combinations. Here are some more of my favorite baked oatmeal recipes that I highly recommend you try:

• Pumpkin Apple Baked Oatmeal

• Carrot Cake Baked Oatmeal

• Rich Chocolate Baked Oatmeal

• Sweet Raspberry Baked Oatmeal Cups

• Mixed Berry Baked Oatmeal

• Comforting Sweet Potato Pie Baked Oatmeal

Each of these recipes offers a unique flavor profile and makes for a fantastic healthy breakfast or snack option. Happy baking!

I Want to Hear From You! Share Your Creations!

If you decide to make this incredibly vibrant and delicious Red Velvet Baked Oatmeal recipe, I would absolutely love to hear about it! Your feedback helps me create even more delightful recipes and connects us through our shared love of healthy, plant-based food.

Please be sure to leave me a comment, rating, and a review right here on the blog. Your insights are invaluable and help other readers discover and enjoy these recipes too.

Don’t forget to give me a shout out on Instagram! Use the hashtag #floraandvino to show me your beautiful creations. I love seeing how you enjoy and customize these dishes.

For more inspiration and to discover other healthy, delicious recipes, check out my Pinterest page. You can easily pin more recipes like this one to save for later.

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XO Lauren

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