Strawberry Pop-Tart Protein Baked Oats Recipe
Say hello to your new favorite breakfast obsession: the Strawberry Pop-Tart Protein Baked Oats Recipe. Imagine the nostalgic fruity sweetness of a childhood Pop-Tart, but made over with wholesome oats, juicy strawberries, and a protein-boosted batter that will keep you energized until lunch. With a golden crust, jammy strawberry center, and vanilla glaze (plus optional sprinkles!), this bake delivers all the playful flavors you crave—only now you get to call it breakfast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Strawberry Pop-Tart Protein Baked Oats Recipe is in its simple, nourishing ingredients that each have a flavorful role. With just a handful of basics and some fresh strawberries, you can create a breakfast that feels both fun and filling!
- Old-fashioned oats: The hearty base that gives structure and a chewy texture reminiscent of a classic oat bake.
- Vanilla protein powder: Adds a creamy vanilla note while boosting the protein content for longer-lasting satiety.
- Baking powder: Lifts the batter, keeping it light rather than heavy so each bite feels like a treat.
- Salt: Just a pinch balances out the sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
- Unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice): Keeps the batter moist and tender; use any milk for your desired richness.
- Unsweetened applesauce: Brings moisture and subtle sweetness without weighing down the finished bake.
- Large egg: Binds everything together and adds a touch of richness for that dreamy Pop-Tart feel.
- Vanilla extract: Highlights the vanilla vibes and makes your kitchen smell heavenly as it bakes.
- Fresh strawberries (diced): Pops of fruity freshness throughout every square.
- Strawberry jam: Mimics that gooey Pop-Tart filling for a burst of real flavor right in the middle.
- Vanilla Greek yogurt: The secret ingredient for a creamy, tangy glaze with a protein punch.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the glaze gently, giving each square that iconic drizzle.
- Milk (for glaze): Just a splash brings the glaze to the perfect drizzling consistency.
- Optional sprinkles: Not required, but they turn breakfast into a celebration—why not?
How to Make Strawberry Pop-Tart Protein Baked Oats Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C)—you want a hot, even temperature for that perfect golden bake. Lightly grease or line an 8×8-inch baking dish so your oats release cleanly, keeping those layers distinct and tidy.
Step 2: Blend the Oats
Add the old-fashioned oats to a blender or food processor and pulse until they reach a fine flour-like consistency. This little trick gives the Strawberry Pop-Tart Protein Baked Oats Recipe its signature cake-like tenderness; you won’t believe how quickly oats transform into oat flour!
Step 3: Mix the Dry and Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the oat flour, vanilla protein powder, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the almond milk, applesauce, egg, and vanilla extract. Blend it until smooth, then gently fold in your diced strawberries to add juicy bursts of flavor throughout the batter.
Step 4: Layer the Batter and Jam
Pour half the batter into your prepared dish and gently spread it into the corners. Spoon the strawberry jam evenly over the top—this will create that ooey-gooey Pop-Tart middle. Carefully cover the jam with the remaining batter, doing your best to seal the edges so the jam is neatly tucked inside.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Slide your dish onto the middle rack and bake for 28 to 32 minutes. When the center looks set and the edges are a light golden brown, it’s time to come out. Let the baked oats cool for at least 10 minutes—this step helps them firm up, so you can slice tidy squares with dreamy jammy centers.
Step 6: Make the Glaze
While your bake cools, whisk together the vanilla Greek yogurt, powdered sugar, and a splash of milk until smooth. You want a drizzly, luscious glaze (add a tiny bit more milk if it’s too thick). This is the finishing touch that really makes your Strawberry Pop-Tart Protein Baked Oats Recipe feel like a sweet morning treat!
Step 7: Glaze, Sprinkle, and Serve
Drizzle the Greek yogurt glaze over the slightly warm oats and shower with colorful sprinkles if you’re feeling festive. Now you’re ready to slice and serve—prepare for cheers all around the table!
How to Serve Strawberry Pop-Tart Protein Baked Oats Recipe
Garnishes
The final flourish can make all the difference! Besides the glaze and sprinkles, try a handful of extra fresh strawberry slices or even a dollop of whipped cream. These little touches turn your Strawberry Pop-Tart Protein Baked Oats Recipe into a bakery-worthy treat with every bite.
Side Dishes
Pair your bake with a glass of cold milk or a steamy mug of coffee for a complete, satisfying breakfast. For extra staying power, you might add scrambled eggs or a portion of Greek yogurt on the side. The sweet and creamy oats delight in contrast with savory or tangy sides!
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to add a playful twist, bake the batter in individual ramekins or muffin tins for easy single servings—kids and adults both love this personalized touch. Another idea: layer the baked oats with yogurt and extra jam in parfait glasses for a deconstructed breakfast dessert experience!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extra squares of Strawberry Pop-Tart Protein Baked Oats Recipe, pop them into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to four days, making your mornings a breeze—just grab, reheat, and go!
Freezing
These oat squares freeze beautifully. Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap or foil, then tuck them into a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to two months, so you can stash some away for those super-busy weeks when you crave a cheerful, protein-packed breakfast.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pop a square in the microwave for 20–30 seconds, or until just warmed through. If you prefer the oven, cover loosely with foil and heat at 325°F (165°C) for about 10 minutes. The glaze will soften a bit, but the flavors stay stellar!
FAQs
Can I use a different protein powder flavor in this recipe?
Absolutely! While vanilla blends seamlessly with strawberries, you can experiment with strawberry or even chocolate protein powders to switch things up. The Strawberry Pop-Tart Protein Baked Oats Recipe is super forgiving, so tailor it to your tastes!
What if I don’t have applesauce on hand?
No worries—you can substitute mashed banana or even more Greek yogurt for the applesauce. Both options add moisture and a touch of natural sweetness, so you won’t lose that fluffy, moist texture.
Is there a vegan option for this recipe?
You can make a plant-based version by using a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water), a dairy-free protein powder, and coconut yogurt for the glaze. Choose your favorite plant-based milk and enjoy all the flavors in a vegan-friendly way!
Can I make the Strawberry Pop-Tart Protein Baked Oats Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use certified gluten-free oats and make sure any other packaged ingredients, like your protein powder, are gluten-free as well. That way, everyone at the table can enjoy these fun, wholesome breakfast bars.
What’s the best way to cut neat squares?
Letting your bake cool for at least 10 minutes makes a world of difference. If you want super-clean slices, run your knife under hot water and wipe between cuts. This helps preserve those gorgeous jammy layers without sticking or crumbling.
Final Thoughts
I hope you dive right in and try this Strawberry Pop-Tart Protein Baked Oats Recipe for yourself! It’s the happiest way to enjoy a nutritious breakfast that feels nostalgic and fun. Whether you serve it for a cozy family morning or meal-prep it for the week ahead, these squares are bound to become a household favorite.
Print
Strawberry Pop-Tart Protein Baked Oats Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 9 squares 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delicious flavors of a classic strawberry pop-tart with this protein-packed twist on baked oats. Perfect for a nutritious and satisfying breakfast or snack.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup old-fashioned oats
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup diced fresh strawberries
- 2 tablespoons strawberry jam
- 1/4 cup vanilla Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon milk (for glaze)
- Optional sprinkles for topping
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Prepare Oat Flour: Blend oats into a fine flour and mix with protein powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Whisk together milk, applesauce, egg, and vanilla. Stir in diced strawberries.
- Layer Batter: Pour half of the batter into the dish, add strawberry jam, then top with remaining batter.
- Bake: Bake for 28–32 minutes until set. Let cool before glazing.
- Make Glaze: Mix Greek yogurt, powdered sugar, and milk for the glaze. Drizzle over oats and top with sprinkles.
- Serve: Slice and enjoy warm.
Notes
- For extra protein, substitute Greek yogurt for applesauce.
- This recipe can be baked in individual ramekins for single servings.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 170 mg
- Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 26 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
