If you’re looking for a healthy, satisfying, and delicious breakfast, this Almond Joy Baked Oatmeal is a fantastic choice. Creamy oats, shredded coconut, almond butter, and melty dairy-free chocolate chips come together to create a breakfast that’s comforting and nourishing. It’s ideal for meal prep—make a batch at the start of the week and reheat a square for an easy morning. This version is vegan, naturally sweetened with maple syrup and applesauce, and can be gluten free if you use certified gluten-free oats.
What you need to make Almond Joy Baked Oatmeal…
These baked oats use wholesome ingredients, healthy fats, and natural sweeteners to keep you full and satisfied. Below is a clear ingredient list with the amounts you’ll need. If you require gluten-free, choose certified gluten-free oats. This recipe is vegan and refined-sugar-free when you use pure maple syrup.
- Oats: 2 cups old-fashioned oats
- Shredded coconut: 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- Almond milk: 1 1/2 cups (unsweetened vanilla or your preferred non-dairy milk)
- Almond butter: 1/4 cup, smooth and slightly runny for easier mixing
- Applesauce: 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce to add moisture and natural sweetness
- Coconut oil: 2 tbsp unrefined (virgin) coconut oil for a stronger coconut flavor
- Pure maple syrup: 3 tbsp for natural sweetness
- Dairy-free chocolate chips: 1/4 cup, or more to taste
- Vanilla extract: 2 tsp for balanced flavor
- Baking powder: 2 tsp to help the bake lift slightly
- Salt: 1/8 tsp to enhance overall flavor
How to make Almond Joy Oatmeal Bake…
Follow these simple steps to make a rich, coconut-forward baked oatmeal that slices into squares for easy serving.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the almond butter, melted coconut oil, pure maple syrup, applesauce, almond milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Add the oats, shredded coconut, baking powder, and salt. Stir until the dry ingredients are fully combined with the wet.
- Fold in the dairy-free chocolate chips, reserving a few to sprinkle on top.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased or parchment-lined 8×8-inch baking dish. Press evenly and top with extra chocolate chips, shredded coconut, and a light sprinkle of salt if desired.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until the top is set and slightly golden.
- Allow the bake to cool before cutting into squares so the bars hold together cleanly. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Storing & serving this healthy baked oatmeal…
How to best serve these oatmeal bars?
Serve warmed with a splash of almond milk or a drizzle of maple syrup. Fresh berries, sliced banana, or a dollop of almond butter on top make excellent additions. These bars also pair well with a spoonful of yogurt or a handful of toasted nuts for extra texture and protein.
How to best store this baked oatmeal?
Store cooled bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, wrap individual squares and place them in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or gently reheat from frozen.
How to re-heat and serve this for breakfast?
To reheat, microwave a chilled square for 40–60 seconds, or warm in a toaster oven for a few minutes until heated through. Add any toppings after reheating so they remain fresh and texturally appealing.
Recipe details
- Author: Kayla Berman
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 9 squares
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Variations and tips
- To make this nut-free, substitute sunflower seed butter for almond butter and use sunflower seed milk if needed.
- If you prefer a sweeter bake, increase maple syrup by 1 tablespoon, or add mashed banana for natural sweetness and moisture.
- For extra chew and texture, stir in chopped almonds or cashews along with the chocolate chips.
- Using old-fashioned oats gives the best texture; quick oats will produce a softer, less structured bar.
More oatmeal inspiration
- Peanut Butter Banana Berry Baked Oatmeal
- Simple Baked Oatmeal
- Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal with Candied Pecans
- Coconut Cashew Oatmeal Cups
Connect with me
If you make Almond Joy Baked Oatmeal or any of my other recipes, I would love to see your photos. Tag @wellnessbykay on Instagram so I can enjoy and share your recreations. Your feedback and ratings help improve and inspire new recipes.
Love this recipe?
Please leave a comment and a rating if you try this recipe — I appreciate hearing what worked for you and any adjustments you make. Enjoy your Almond Joy Baked Oatmeal!