Ready in: 40 minutes · Serves: 8 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.
Quick Answer
This Chocolate Baked Oats recipe combines wholesome ingredients to create a delicious, guilt-free treat perfect for holiday gatherings.
As the crisp autumn air sweeps through New York City, I’m reminded of those cozy mornings spent in my kitchen. With the festive season fast approaching, it’s time to whip up something that satisfies the sweet tooth while feeling wholesome. Enter my go-to Chocolate Baked Oats—perfect for breakfast or an indulgent snack packed with hearty flavors. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe on hand for Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings!
A Cozy Holiday Treat
These Chocolate Baked Oats are not just a breakfast option; they are a delightful way to start your day or a perfect indulgent snack that will impress your family and friends during the holiday season.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously rich chocolate flavor that satisfies your sweet tooth.
- Wholesome ingredients make it a guilt-free indulgence.
- Perfect for cozy breakfasts or a festive snack during the holiday season.
- Easy to make, requiring simple steps and minimal cleanup.
- Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
Gather these wholesome ingredients for a delightful treat.
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats – preferred: old-fashioned oats for texture.
- 1 ½ cups milk – any type you love; almond, soy, or whole milk.
- 2 ripe bananas – use overripe for natural sweetness.
- â…“ cup unsweetened cocoa powder – I recommend Ghirardelli for rich flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – pure vanilla enhances the chocolate taste.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – gives the oats a delightful lift.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – essential for balancing flavors.
- ½ cup dark chocolate chips – optional but adds indulgence.
How to Make Chocolate Baked Oats (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious batch of Chocolate Baked Oats.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). I love the warmth that fills my apartment as the oven heats up—it’s like a homey hug on a chilly day.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. The sweet aroma wafts up, and I can’t help but think about how these simple fruits can transform my dish.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the rolled oats, milk, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt to the bowl. Stir everything together until combined, and watch as the mixture thickens. This is where the magic begins!
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into a greased 8×8-inch baking dish. Make sure to spread it evenly for consistent baking.
Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips
Sprinkle the dark chocolate chips on top, allowing them to nestle into the batter. I always feel a rush of excitement, imagining that gooey melted chocolate waiting to be uncovered.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top looks set and the edges are slightly brown. The sweet, nutty aroma fills your kitchen—just what you need to make it feel festive!
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let cool for a few minutes before slicing into squares. The first bite is always a delight; the exterior is chewy, while the inside remains soft and luscious.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Banana Mashing: Make sure to mash the bananas well; otherwise, you’ll end up with chunks that don’t blend into the oats.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Room temperature milk helps the mixture combine better, preventing clumping.
- Overbaking: Keep a close eye on your dish; it should have a slight jiggle in the center when you remove it from the oven. You want it to remain deliciously moist!
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Add nuts or seeds for a crunch! Walnuts or chia seeds can elevate the texture and nutritional value.
- Experiment with spices: A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a festive touch that’s perfect for the holidays.
- Serve with yogurt or a drizzle of almond butter for extra creaminess when you dig in.
Variations
- Use quick oats instead of rolled oats for a softer texture.
- Replace milk with a non-dairy alternative like oat or coconut milk.
- Swap dark chocolate chips for white chocolate or butterscotch chips for a different flavor profile.
- Add dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a chewy bite.
How to Serve
- Enjoy warm, straight from the oven for a comforting treat.
- Top with fresh fruit such as berries or sliced bananas.
- Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
- Accompany with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added protein.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight.
- Storage: Keep Chocolate Baked Oats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes when ready to enjoy.
- Freezing: Can be frozen after baking; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Each time I bake these oats, I appreciate how incredibly versatile they are—whether you enjoy them sweet or jazzed up with some nutty toppings. Plus, the delight of knowing I’m indulging in something guilt-free is what truly makes them a holiday staple in my kitchen!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 9 squares · Serving Size: 1 square
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~200 calories · 5g protein · 30g carbs · 8g fat
Chocolate Baked Oats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
- Add the rolled oats, milk, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt to the bowl. Stir everything together until combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 8×8-inch baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the dark chocolate chips on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top looks set and the edges are slightly brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes before slicing into squares.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats for this recipe?
While you can use quick oats, the texture will be different. Rolled oats provide a heartier bite and better consistency in the final dish.
2. Can I substitute the milk with a dairy-free alternative?
Absolutely! Almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk are excellent substitutes that will work perfectly in this recipe.
3. How can I make this recipe vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly if you use dairy-free milk and ensure the chocolate chips are also dairy-free.
4. Can I prepare the batter the night before?
Yes, you can prepare the batter in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Just give it a good stir before baking.
5. How can I store leftover baked oats?
Store leftover Chocolate Baked Oats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. They can be enjoyed cold or reheated in the microwave.
