Growing up, our neighbors had dogs named Cookie and Caramel (well they pronounced it car-mel.) Another family friend had a dog named Oreo. Personally, I loved naming pets after delicious desserts! I guess there's no mystery as to why I may have been a few pounds overweight... So, guess who named their Guinea pig, Brownie?!?

Whether you pronounce it Car-a-mel or car-mel, I think we can all agree that sweet concoction can make anything better! Years ago I created Caramel Apple Baked Oatmeal. Actually, I created two of them- Caramel Apple Baked Oatmeal 2. This time I decided caramel is more than enough to stand on its own.

And while a little extra sweetness is great, don't go crazy with the caramel! It packs a lot of calories and grams of sugar, as that is the main ingredient. Basically, I wouldn't recommend making this variety of oatmeal every week- change it up!

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BAKED OATMEAL TIPS

• There are so many possible flavor combinations! Add some chopped pecans, almonds, or a diced apple or pear.
• Adding a bit of oil (butter or coconut oil) provides some healthy fat. It also means there will be no sticking to paper cupcake liners.
• Both applesauce AND yogurt work well. Choose your favorite or whatever you find in the pantry/fridge. I use Greek yogurt for some added protein. Non-dairy varieties also work well.
• Gluten free as long as the oats are certified gluten free and you use gluten free flour. I use oat flour.
• Serve right out of the oven or make ahead and store in the fridge. Baked oatmeal will last for 4-5 days. I prefer re-heating in the microwave for 30-45 seconds.

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Ingredients in Caramel Baked Oatmeal

• Caramel Bits and/or Sauce
• Butter
• Applesauce
• Brown Sugar
• Maple Syrup or Caramel Sauce
• Vanilla
• Eggs
• Baking Powder
• Milk
• Flour
• Old-Fashioned or Rolled Oats
• Optional: Gluten Free Pretzels
• Optional: Protein Powder

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Caramel v. Butterscotch

Traditionally, caramel is made by slowly heating white granulated sugar to a certain temperature- 340 degrees. While heating, the sugar is broken down to create a deeper color and rich flavor! Butterscotch uses brown sugar. So, the difference between butterscotch and caramel is...molasses.

Can I add protein powder to my baked oatmeal?

Absolutely! I usually do. If you’re not going to serve the oatmeal with a protein (eggs, yogurt, etc.) than I would definitely add some protein to help balance the carbs. For a baked version, you may want to slightly reduce the flour as well. I will only use 1/4 cup of flour.

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