Protein Strawberry Baked Oatmeal with Cottage Cheese

This Protein Strawberry Baked Oatmeal with Cottage Cheese recipe is packed with old-fashioned oats, coconut, vanilla, cinnamon, almond butter, protein powder, and fresh strawberries. It’s an easy make-ahead breakfast with a strawberry drizzle, perfect for busy mornings or special occasions like showers and brunches.

ByNicole Bonilla
Gluten-Free diet-friendly recipe
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Pan of baked strawberry oatmeal.

This Protein Strawberry Baked Oatmeal with Cottage Cheese recipe is a wonderful way to start your day, especially during strawberry season. Made with old-fashioned oats, coconut, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg, it brings together wholesome ingredients for a flavorful breakfast. With the added protein boost from cottage cheese, almond butter, and protein powder, this baked oatmeal is satisfying and perfect for fueling your busy mornings.

The fresh strawberry drizzle adds a beautiful touch, making this dish ideal for special occasions like baby showers, bridal brunches, or even Mother’s Day. It’s a make-ahead breakfast that your whole family will love, and it fits seamlessly into your weekly meal prep routine. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it with your family, this recipe combines convenience and flavor, all with simple, everyday ingredients.

YouTube video

Why You’ll Love This Baked Oatmeal Recipe

  • Protein-packed breakfast: Cottage cheese, almond butter, and protein powder offer a great protein boost for the morning.
  • Perfect for special occasions: The strawberry drizzle adds an elegant touch, making it ideal for brunches and showers.
  • Make-ahead convenience: Baked oatmeal that’s ready to enjoy on busy mornings or throughout the week.
  • Wholesome ingredients: Made with oats, cinnamon, vanilla, and juicy strawberries for a delicious, family-friendly meal.
Pan of baked strawberry oatmeal.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Here is everything you need to make the best-tasting Gluten-Free Baked Strawberry Oatmeal Recipe:

Cottage Cheese: Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for cottage cheese in equal amounts. It will provide a similar creamy texture and protein content.

Almond Butter: Peanut butter or cashew butter can be used instead of almond butter. You may need to adjust the amount to taste, but aim for a similar consistency.

Avocado Oil: Melted coconut oil, light olive oil, or melted butter can be used as alternatives to avocado oil. They will add a rich flavor to the oatmeal.

Cane Sugar: Maple syrup, honey, coconut sugar, or regular sugar can be used instead of cane sugar. Adjust the quantity based on sweetness preference.

Almond Milk: Any type of dairy milk, such as cow’s milk or whole milk, or plant-based milk, including soy milk or oat milk, can be used as a substitute for almond milk.

Eggs: For a vegan option, you can use flax eggs or chia eggs. To make one flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.

Old-Fashioned Oats: Quick oats or steel-cut oats can be used instead of old fashioned oats. Keep in mind that steel-cut oats may result in a chewier texture.

Protein Powder: You can use any protein powder you like. I recommend using a vanilla flavored or unflavored all-natural protein powder.

Coconut: You can use shredded coconut or coconut flakes. If you don’t like coconut, you can omit it altogether.

Spices: Adjust the amount of cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt based on your personal preference.

Strawberries: You can use any fresh or frozen berries such as raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries instead of strawberries. If using frozen berries, allow them to thaw and drain off any excess liquid.

Sliced Almonds: Chopped walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds can be used instead of toasted almonds for a crunchy topping.

Piece of strawberry baked oatmeal.

How to Make My High-Protein Baked Strawberry Oatmeal Recipe

Here are easy, detailed, step-by-step instructions for the best way to make this delicious, high-protein baked oatmeal. The instructions are also repeated in the recipe card at the bottom of this blog post.

Step 1: Toast the Almonds (optional)

Bring a non-stick frying pan to medium-high heat. Melt one teaspoon of butter and add in 1/2 cup of sliced almonds. Sprinkle with several pinches of salt. Once they begin to toast, continuously stir them until they’re lightly golden. Remove them from the heat immediately because they can burn quickly. Spread on a paper-towel-lined plate and allow to cool.

Toasting almonds in a skillet with a little butter.

Step 2: Make the Oatmeal Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8″ baking pan or casserole dish with parchment paper (optional) and spray with non-stick spray.

In an upright blender, food processor, or chopper cup with an immersion blender, combine the cottage cheese, almond butter, avocado oil, cane sugar, almond milk, vanilla extract, and apple cider vinegar. Mix until smooth.

Pour the mixture into a mixing bowl and add the eggs. Whisk until combined.

Add the dry ingredients, including old-fashioned oats, protein powder, coconut flakes, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg. Mix with a spatula until combined.

Gently fold in one cup of diced strawberries and pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Thinly slice 6-7 strawberries and arrange them on top of the oatmeal then sprinkle on about 1/4 cup of toasted almonds.

Adding diced strawberries to oatmeal batter.
Adding almonds to top of oatmeal.

Step 3: Bake the Oatmeal

Bake in the preheated oven for 27-32 minutes, or until the oatmeal is set and the top is light golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool before serving.

Step 4: Make the Strawberry Drizzle

In an upright blender, food processor, or chopper cup with an immersion blender, combine the cottage cheese, powdered cane sugar, and 3 strawberries and mix until smooth. Allow to set in the fridge until the baked oatmeal is cool and ready to serve. Garnish each piece of oatmeal with the strawberry drizzle and serve.

Mixing strawberry drizzle in a chopper cup.
Pan of baked strawberry oatmeal.

Expert Recipe Tips

Cottage Cheese Texture: You do not have to blend the cottage cheese if you don’t mind the curdled texture in the oatmeal and the drizzle. You can simply stir it in with the other ingredients.

Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of sweetener (cane sugar, maple syrup, honey, etc.) according to your taste preferences and the sweetness of your strawberries. Taste the batter before baking and add more sweetener if desired.

Protein Powder: If you’re using protein powder, make sure to choose a flavor that complements the other ingredients in the recipe. Vanilla or strawberry-flavored protein powder works well in this recipe, but you can use any flavor you prefer.

Refrigeration: Allow the baked oatmeal to cool completely at room temperature before storing it. Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container or wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store the strawberry drizzle separately in an airtight container.

Individual Portions: If you prefer, you can portion the baked oatmeal into individual servings before storing them. This makes it easier to grab a quick breakfast or snack on the go.

Reheating: To reheat the baked oatmeal, simply microwave individual portions for 30 seconds to 1 minute until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat larger portions in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated to your liking.

Freezing: Baked oatmeal can also be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place them in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. 

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh strawberries in baked oatmeal?
​Yes, you can use frozen strawberries in this recipe. However, keep in mind that frozen strawberries may release more moisture during baking, which could affect the texture of the oatmeal slightly. Thaw the strawberries and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the oatmeal mixture.

Can I omit the protein powder from the recipe?
Yes, you can omit the protein powder if you prefer. The recipe will still turn out delicious and nutritious without it. You may need to adjust the consistency of the batter slightly by adding 2 tablespoons of oats to compensate for the omitted powder.

Can I make this strawberry baked oatmeal recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by using plant-based alternatives for ingredients such as eggs (flax eggs or chia eggs), milk (almond milk, soy milk, etc.), and sweeteners (maple syrup, coconut sugar, etc.). 

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the oatmeal mixture in advance and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, simply pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, add the toppings, and bake according to the recipe instructions. This is a convenient option for busy mornings or when entertaining guests.

Can I freeze baked oatmeal with strawberries?
Yes, you can freeze baked oatmeal for longer-term storage. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or store them in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label the containers with the date and contents before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
​Yes, you can use quick oats instead of old fashioned oats in this recipe. Keep in mind that quick oats will cook faster and may result in a slightly softer texture compared to old fashioned oats. Adjust the baking time accordingly and monitor the oatmeal closely to prevent overcooking.

Can I customize the recipe with different fruits or add-ins?
Yes, feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite fruits including blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, peaches, nuts, seeds, or other add-ins. Experiment with different combinations to create unique flavor profiles and variations. Just be mindful of any additional moisture or texture changes that may occur when adding certain ingredients.

Do you love strawberries? Check out more of my easy and nutritious strawberry recipes:

More Breakfast Recipes

Pan of baked strawberry oatmeal.

Protein Baked Strawberry Oatmeal with Cottage Cheese

Gluten-Free diet-friendly recipe
This Protein Strawberry Baked Oatmeal with Cottage Cheese recipe is packed with old-fashioned oats, coconut, vanilla, cinnamon, almond butter, protein powder, and fresh strawberries. It’s an easy make-ahead breakfast with a strawberry drizzle, perfect for busy mornings or special occasions like showers and brunches.
5 from 9 votes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Servings 9
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 2/3 cup cottage cheese
  • 1/4 cup almond butter
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil
  • 1/3 cup cane sugar
  • 1/2 cup almond milk
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 eggs
  • 2-1/4 cup old fashioned oats
  • 1/4 cup protein powder
  • 1/4 cup coconut
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1-1/2 cups strawberries
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds

Strawberry Drizzle:

Instructions
 

  • Toast the almonds (optional):
    Bring a non-stick frying pan to medium-high heat. Melt one teaspoon of butter and add in 1/2 cup of sliced almonds. Sprinkle with several pinches of salt. Once they begin to toast, continuously stir them until they're lightly golden. Remove them from the heat immediately because they can burn quickly. Spread on a paper-towel-lined plate and allow to cool.
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8" baking pan or casserole dish with parchment paper (optional) and spray with non-stick spray.
    In an upright blender, food processor, or chopper cup with an immersion blender, combine the cottage cheese, almond butter, avocado oil, cane sugar, almond milk, vanilla extract, and apple cider vinegar. Mix until smooth.
    Pour the mixture into a mixing bowl and add the eggs. Whisk until combined.
    Add the dry ingredients, including old-fashioned oats, protein powder, coconut flakes, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg. Mix with a spatula until combined.
    Gently fold in one cup of diced strawberries and pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
    Thinly slice 6-7 strawberries and arrange them on top of the oatmeal then sprinkle on about 1/4 cup of toasted almonds.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 27-32 minutes, or until the oatmeal is set and the top is light golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool before serving.
  • In an upright blender, food processor, or chopper cup with an immersion blender, combine the cottage cheese, powdered cane sugar, and 3 strawberries and mix until smooth. Allow to set in the fridge until the baked oatmeal is cool and ready to serve. Garnish each piece of oatmeal with the strawberry drizzle and serve.

Video

YouTube video

Notes

Cottage Cheese Texture: You do not have to blend the cottage cheese if you don’t mind the curdled texture in the oatmeal and the drizzle. You can simply stir it in with the other ingredients.
Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of sweetener (cane sugar, maple syrup, honey, etc.) according to your taste preferences and the sweetness of your strawberries. Taste the batter before baking and add more sweetener if desired.
Protein Powder: If you’re using protein powder, make sure to choose a flavor that complements the other ingredients in the recipe. Vanilla or strawberry-flavored protein powder works well in this recipe, but you can use any flavor you prefer.

Nutrition

Calories: 268kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 11gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0.003gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 314mgPotassium: 182mgFiber: 4gSugar: 13gVitamin A: 89IUVitamin C: 16mgCalcium: 114mgIron: 2mg
Keyword baked oatmeal, high protein, old-fashioned oats, strawberries
Did you make this recipe and love it?Please let me know in the comments below how it turned out 🙂
Dietitian Reviewed and Endorsed logo

This recipe has been reviewed by a healthcare professional for its nutritional balance and alignment with healthy eating principles.

9 Comments

  2. This is a perfect breakfast food! Left me feeling full and ready for the day! Great to make and save for a quick breakfast in the morning.

    Reply

  3. The strawberry gives it just the right sweetness, it tastes like a dessert, but it’s actually healthy

    Reply

  4. I’ve been trying to increase my protein and I think I found my new favorite breakfast! This tastes so good and I love the strawberry cream on top. I felt like I was eating a dessert 🙂

    Reply

  5. This baked strawberry oatmeal is seriously delicious and I am so excited to share it with you! It has TONS of flavor along with lots of protein and wholesome ingredients. I hope you love it as much as I do 🙂

    Reply
5 from 9 votes (4 ratings without comment)

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