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If you’re looking for a comforting, wholesome breakfast or snack that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple, the Chocolate Baked Oats Recipe is here to brighten your day. Imagine warm, moist oats baked to perfection with rich cocoa and pockets of melting chocolate chips in every bite—this recipe turns humble ingredients into a luscious treat that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. Every spoonful delivers that chocolatey goodness with a texture that’s both satisfyingly hearty and soft, making it a standout in the world of baked breakfasts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are incredibly straightforward, yet each one plays a vital role in crafting the perfect texture and flavor of your Chocolate Baked Oats Recipe. From the creamy Greek yogurt that keeps things moist, to the subtle espresso powder that deepens the chocolate notes, every item is essential for that perfect balance.
- 2 large eggs: Provide structure and richness, binding all the flavors together.
- 2 cups quick cooking oats: The hearty base that offers wholesome texture and fiber.
- 2 cups chocolate milk: Adds a creamy chocolate flavor and moisture in one go.
- ¼ cup cocoa powder: Intensifies the chocolate flavor with a velvety depth.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet aroma that complements the chocolate perfectly.
- ½ tsp baking powder: Ensures a light, fluffy texture as your oats bake.
- 2 Tbsp melted butter: Brings richness and a subtle buttery note.
- â…“ cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla): Keeps the bake moist and tender with a slight tang.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the chocolatey flavors beautifully.
- ¼ cup maple syrup: Offers natural sweetness and a depth that sugar alone can’t mimic.
- ½-1 tsp espresso powder (optional): Elevates the chocolate flavor with a subtle coffee kick.
- ½–¾ cup chocolate chips: The gooey pockets of melting chocolate you won’t be able to resist.
How to Make Chocolate Baked Oats Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures the oven is perfectly heated and ready when your batter is mixed. Grease an 8×8 inch baking pan so your baked oats don’t stick and come out cleanly when sliced.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the two large eggs until smooth and lightly frothy. This creates a base that helps bind your ingredients and adds a nice lift. Then pour in the chocolate milk, melted butter, Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, and maple syrup. Whisk gently to combine those luscious flavors into a silky batter.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Now, sift together the quick cooking oats, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and optional espresso powder. Gradually stir this into your wet mixture, ensuring everything is evenly incorporated. This step is crucial for developing the thick, chocolatey oat batter that will bake into a moist, rich dessert.
Step 4: Fold in the Chocolate Chips
With your batter ready, gently fold in the chocolate chips. These little bursts of luxury will melt slightly during baking, leaving irresistible pockets of gooey chocolate throughout your oats.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter evenly into your greased pan. Slide it into the preheated oven and bake for about 30 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top and edges are set, and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean—some moisture is okay since the oats continue to cook after baking.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Once baked, allow your chocolate baked oats to cool for around 10 minutes. This resting time helps it set perfectly, making slicing easier and preventing it from falling apart when you serve.
How to Serve Chocolate Baked Oats Recipe
Garnishes
The best part about this recipe is how easy it is to dress it up. Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the top to enhance the chocolate’s richness, or add a dollop of Greek yogurt and a handful of fresh berries for a bright, tangy contrast that balances the sweetness beautifully.
Side Dishes
Serve your Chocolate Baked Oats with a side of fresh fruit or a small glass of milk to keep breakfast light but satisfying. It also pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy morning indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the baked oats into squares and layer them with whipped cream or nut butter in a parfait glass. You can also drizzle warm chocolate sauce or caramel over the top for an extra-special treat that feels like dessert, any time of day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, you can store the Chocolate Baked Oats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This makes for an incredibly convenient grab-and-go breakfast throughout the week.
Freezing
Portion the baked oats into individual servings and freeze in a sealed container or freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy a warm, chocolatey breakfast anytime you want without any extra prep time. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Warm your leftovers gently in the microwave for about 30 to 60 seconds or until heated through. Alternatively, pop slices in a toaster oven at a moderate temperature to revive that fresh-baked texture with a slight crisp on the edges.
FAQs
Can I use rolled oats instead of quick cooking oats?
Yes, rolled oats can be used but they will create a chewier texture and might require a few extra minutes of baking to fully soften. Quick cooking oats give a smoother, more uniform bake.
Is it necessary to use espresso powder?
Espresso powder is optional but highly recommended. It enhances the chocolate flavor without making your baked oats taste like coffee, giving it a richer and deeper chocolate profile.
Can I substitute the chocolate milk for regular milk?
You can, but keep in mind the chocolate milk is a key player in delivering that luscious chocolate flavor. If you use regular milk, consider adding a bit more cocoa powder or a touch of sweetener to compensate.
How do I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, swap out the eggs for flax or chia eggs, use plant-based milk like almond or oat chocolate milk, choose vegan yogurt, and replace butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine.
What’s the best way to cut the baked oats without them crumbling?
Let the baked oats cool completely for about 10 minutes, and use a sharp knife that’s been warmed under hot water, then dried. This helps achieve clean cuts with minimal crumbling.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely can’t recommend the Chocolate Baked Oats Recipe enough if you want something that feels both nourishing and decadently chocolatey. It’s one of those recipes that makes mornings extra special without any fuss, and it’s perfect for sharing with friends or family who also love a warm, hearty treat. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy oats!
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Print
Chocolate Baked Oats Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This decadent Chocolate Baked Oats recipe is a delightful and wholesome breakfast or snack option that’s easy to prepare and packed with rich chocolate flavor. Combining quick oats, cocoa powder, and chocolate milk with a touch of espresso powder and chocolate chips, it bakes into a moist, fudgy dish perfect for serving warm. It’s an ideal make-ahead dish that can be sliced and topped with yogurt or fresh berries for a nutritious boost.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups quick cooking oats
- 2 cups chocolate milk
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp baking powder
- 2 Tbsp melted butter
- â…“ cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- ½–1 tsp espresso powder (optional)
- ½–¾ cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the oats.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 2 large eggs until smooth. Add the chocolate milk, vanilla extract, melted butter, Greek yogurt, and maple syrup, stirring to combine thoroughly.
- Add Dry Ingredients: To the wet mixture, add quick oats, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and espresso powder if using. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Prepare Baking Pan: Grease an 8×8 inch baking pan lightly with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Pour the chocolate oat mixture into the pan and smooth the top evenly.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes until the top and edges are set and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out mostly clean with just a bit of moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the baked oats to cool for about 10 minutes. Slice into squares and optionally sprinkle with flaky sea salt or top with additional yogurt and fresh berries for serving.
Notes
- Using quick cooking oats helps achieve a soft, cake-like texture.
- Espresso powder is optional but enhances the chocolate flavor without adding coffee taste.
- Allow some moisture to remain when testing doneness as the baked oats firm up while cooling.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat squares gently in the microwave for a warm treat.
