Strawberry Pop-Tart Protein Baked Oats Recipe
Discover the ultimate morning treat with the Strawberry Pop-Tart Protein Baked Oats Recipe, a delightful blend of nostalgic flavors and wholesome ingredients that brings your favorite childhood breakfast staple into a guilt-free, protein-packed form. This recipe combines the warm, comforting texture of baked oats with the sweet strawberry jam filling and creamy vanilla frosting, making it a perfect start to your day or a satisfying snack anytime. It’s easy to prepare, uses simple pantry essentials, and fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas that invite you to savor every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simplicity and the thoughtful selection of ingredients, each playing a key role in delivering rich flavor, moist texture, and that irresistible pop-tart feel without the processed overload. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:
- 1 cup oat flour (120 grams): Provides a hearty, wholesome base that’s naturally gluten-free and lends a tender crumb.
- 1 scoop Dymatize Elite Vanilla Casein Protein Powder (33 grams): Boosts the protein content while adding subtle vanilla sweetness and smoothness.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Ensures the oats rise just enough to give a fluffy, cake-like texture.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and elevates all the flavors.
- 2/3 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk (5.3 fl oz): Keeps the batter moist and adds a hint of vanilla undertone without extra calories.
- 2 large eggs (100 grams): Bind the ingredients together and add richness for that satisfying mouthfeel.
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (21 grams): Offers natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Amplifies the dessert-like qualities you crave in a pop-tart.
- 2 tbsp Smucker’s Low Sugar Strawberry Preserves (34 grams): The star of the show: sweet, fruity filling with far less sugar than traditional jams.
- 6 tbsp powdered sugar (45 grams): Essential for creating the light, sugary frosting topping.
- 1/4 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt (2 fl oz): Adds protein and creaminess for a perfectly tangy finish to the frosting.
How to Make Strawberry Pop-Tart Protein Baked Oats Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Oven and Dishes
Begin by pre-heating your oven to 350°F. Lightly spray the insides of three half-quart baking dishes with non-stick spray. This step is crucial to ensure your baked oats come out cleanly and maintain that classic pop-tart shape, ready for layering and baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the oat flour, vanilla protein powder, baking powder, and salt. Thoroughly combining these dry ingredients guarantees even distribution, which is key for consistent texture and rise throughout the baked oats.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat together almond milk, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Once combined, pour the wet ingredients into the dry and gently mix until the batter is smooth and thick, with no visible pockets of flour. This rich, sticky mixture forms a perfect base for the layered effect you’re aiming for.
Step 4: Layer Batter and Jam
Divide half the batter evenly among the prepared baking dishes, spreading it so it reaches all edges. Carefully spoon and spread the strawberry preserves over this first layer, leaving a small border to prevent overflow. Then, spread the remaining batter over the jam in a smooth, even layer up to the edges. This layering creates the iconic pop-tart experience with a gooey jam center surrounded by moist baked oats.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the dishes in the oven and bake for 20 to 22 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the tops have puffed slightly and taken on a delicate golden hue, and the surface springs back gently to the touch without leaving an indentation. Let your baked oats cool on a wire rack to set properly before frosting.
Step 6: Make Frosting
While your baked oats are cooling, combine the powdered sugar with the Greek yogurt in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and creamy. For a touch of whimsy and color, add a drop of red gel food coloring if you want to mimic that classic pop-tart icing. This lightly sweetened, protein-packed frosting perfectly complements the strawberry and vanilla notes underneath.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the baked oats have cooled, generously spread the frosting over the top of each portion. If you’re feeling festive, sprinkle some colorful sprinkles on top to really capture the fun of pop-tarts. And there you have it — a nostalgic breakfast made healthier, protein-rich, and utterly delicious.
How to Serve Strawberry Pop-Tart Protein Baked Oats Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling a few rainbow sprinkles or crushed freeze-dried strawberries over the frosting adds a playful crunch and vibrant color, enhancing the visual appeal and texture contrast delightfully.
Side Dishes
This recipe stands well on its own as a complete meal, but pairing it with a side of fresh fruit or a hot cup of your favorite morning beverage, such as a chai latte or crisp black coffee, turns it into an indulgent brunch experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these baked oats in mason jars layered with extra strawberry preserves and a dollop of whipped cream for a grab-and-go parfait vibe, perfect for breakfast on busy mornings or casual brunches with friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover portions can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days, allowing you to enjoy the sweet protein boost without any waste. Just keep the frosting separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain its fresh texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap individual servings tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to one month to preserve flavor and texture. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat portions in the microwave for about 30 to 45 seconds or until warmed through, then add the frosting topping fresh. Avoid reheating with the frosting on to keep that creamy texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use other fruit preserves instead of strawberry?
Absolutely! Blueberry, raspberry, or even peach preserves can be fantastic alternatives, giving you similar fruity sweetness while letting you switch up flavors according to your mood or what’s on hand.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, provided your oat flour is certified gluten-free. This recipe is naturally gluten-free and perfect for those avoiding wheat, making it an accessible treat for many.
Can I substitute the protein powder?
Certainly! If you don’t have vanilla casein, use any vanilla-flavored protein powder you prefer. Just keep in mind that different powders may slightly affect texture and sweetness.
How do I make the frosting if I want it vegan?
You can swap out Greek yogurt for a plant-based alternative like coconut yogurt and use powdered sugar that is vegan-friendly. The texture will remain creamy and delicious!
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Definitely! The Strawberry Pop-Tart Protein Baked Oats Recipe is excellent for meal prepping because it stores well, reheats beautifully, and provides a balanced, nutritious breakfast that keeps you full and energized.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Strawberry Pop-Tart Protein Baked Oats Recipe enough for anyone looking to turn a beloved nostalgic classic into a wholesome, protein-packed breakfast that tastes amazing and feels like a warm hug. It’s simple to make, customizable, and deliciously satisfying — perfect for sharing with friends or treating yourself. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a cherished part of your morning routine!
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Strawberry Pop-Tart Protein Baked Oats Recipe
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Strawberry Pop-Tart Protein Baked Oats recipe offers a healthier, protein-packed twist on the classic pop-tart treat. Combining oat flour, vanilla casein protein powder, and a luscious strawberry jam filling, these baked oats deliver a satisfying, cake-like texture topped with a creamy Greek yogurt frosting. Perfect for a nutritious breakfast or snack, this recipe is quick to prepare and yields delicious individual servings.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup oat flour (120 grams)
- 1 scoop Dymatize Elite Vanilla Casein Protein Powder (33 grams)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2/3 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk (5.3 fl oz)
- 2 large eggs (100 grams)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (21 grams)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Filling and Topping
- 2 tbsp Smucker’s Low Sugar Strawberry Preserves (34 grams)
- 6 tbsp powdered sugar (45 grams)
- 1/4 cup plain non-fat Greek yogurt (2 fl oz)
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Dishes: Pre-heat your oven to 350°F. Lightly spray the inside of three half-quart (about 8 fl oz capacity) baking dishes with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the baked oats.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together oat flour, vanilla casein protein powder, baking powder, and a pinch of salt until all ingredients are well combined. This step ensures even distribution of leavening agents and protein throughout the batter.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the unsweetened vanilla almond milk, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smoothly combined. Pour this liquid mixture into the bowl with dry ingredients and stir until the batter is thick, sticky, and free of dry flour.
- Layer Batter and Jam: Divide half of the batter evenly among the prepared baking dishes, spreading it out to cover the bottom and edges. Spoon and spread the strawberry preserves on top of each layer, taking care not to extend the jam to the edges. Cover with the remaining batter, spreading it evenly to the edges.
- Bake: Place the baking dishes in the oven and bake for 20-22 minutes. The baked oats should rise and turn lightly golden on top. When lightly touched, the surface should spring back without leaving a mark, indicating they are fully cooked.
- Make Frosting: While the baked oats cool on a rack, whisk together the plain non-fat Greek yogurt and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Optionally, add a small amount of red gel food coloring for a classic pop-tart look.
- Serve: Once cooled, top each baked oat serving with the yogurt frosting and add sprinkles if desired. Serve immediately for a delicious and protein-rich breakfast or snack.
Notes
- Use non-stick spray or grease the baking dishes thoroughly to avoid sticking, especially since the batter is thick and sticky.
- Ensure the oats are fully cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting or sliding off.
- For a vegan or dairy-free version, consider substituting eggs with flax eggs and Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative.
- Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup or using a different jam flavor.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days for best taste and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
