Kid Friendly Recipes | Vegan Breakfasts | Whole Food Plant-Based

Carrot Cake Oatmeal

ByShawna March 8, 2025March 8, 2025

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Carrot Cake Oatmeal is the perfect cozy breakfast for anyone who loves the warm, spiced flavors of classic carrot cake. It’s naturally sweetened, lightly spiced, and has just the right amount of crunch from chia seeds and raisins. This wholesome, plant-based oatmeal is easy to make and tastes like dessert for breakfast—without the guilt!

Carrot cake oatmeal with cream cheese topping and raisins in white bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Warm & Comforting – Perfect for chilly mornings or when you crave something sweet and nourishing.
Tastes Like Carrot Cake – All the flavors of your favorite dessert in a healthy, satisfying breakfast.
Quick & Easy – Ready in just 10 minutes with simple pantry staples.
Completely Vegan & Refined Sugar-Free – Sweetened naturally with maple syrup and raisins.

Ingredients

For the Oatmeal:

Carrot – Adds natural sweetness and a classic carrot cake flavor.

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Old-fashioned oats – Provides a hearty, chewy texture and fiber.

Plant-based milk (almond, oat, soy, etc.) – Creates a creamy base for the oatmeal.

Chia seeds – Helps thicken the oatmeal and adds omega-3s.

Maple syrup – Naturally sweetens and enhances the warm flavors.

Cinnamon – The key spice that gives this oatmeal its signature taste.

Ginger – Adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor.

Nutmeg – Enhances the spice blend for a well-rounded taste.

Cloves (optional) – Provides an extra layer of warmth and spice.

Raisins – Adds natural sweetness and chewy texture.

Optional Topping:

Vegan cream cheese – Mimics the classic cream cheese frosting.

Powdered sugar – Lightly sweetens the cream cheese topping.

Extra raisins – For garnish and additional sweetness.

How to Make

Process for making carrot cake oatmeal in saucepan., 2 image collage.

*Note that these instructions can be printed below

Step 1: Combine ingredients – In a small pot, add all of the oatmeal ingredients except the raisins.

Step 2: Cook the oatmeal – Heat over medium, stirring occasionally for 5-7 minutes, until the oats soften and absorb most of the liquid.

Step 3: Add the raisins – Stir them in once the oatmeal is mostly cooked.

Step 4: Make the topping (optional) – Mix the vegan cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth.

Step 5: Serve & enjoy – Top with the cream cheese mixture and extra raisins for the full carrot cake experience!

Carrot cake oatmeal done being cooked in white saucepan.

Expert Tips & Tricks

Finely shred the carrot – This ensures it softens perfectly and blends into the oatmeal.
Adjust sweetness – Add more maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter oatmeal.
For extra crunch, top with chopped walnuts or pecans.
Want a creamier texture? Use a little extra milk when cooking.

How to Store & Reheat

Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat by adding a splash of plant-based milk and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this oatmeal ahead of time?
Yes! Store it in the fridge and reheat with a bit of extra milk for a quick, nourishing breakfast.

Can I use quick oats or steel-cut oats?
Quick oats will cook faster, while steel-cut oats take longer and require more liquid. Adjust cooking times as needed.

Can I make this without chia seeds?
Absolutely! The chia seeds help thicken the oatmeal, but you can leave them out or substitute with ground flaxseeds.

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Shawna

Recipe Developer

Recipe developer and food photographer mom of 3 kids. I love creating new healthy recipes that aren't only delicious, but also nutritious!