If you’ve been dreaming of a breakfast that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, let me introduce you to this delightful Chocolate Baked Oats Recipe. It’s the perfect balance of rich chocolate flavor and comforting oat texture, baked into a sliceable treat that’s both hearty and indulgent. Whether you want a cozy morning boost or a guiltless dessert, this recipe hits all the right notes with simple ingredients that transform into something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients together for this Chocolate Baked Oats Recipe is a breeze because each item brings something important to the table—whether it’s texture, moisture, or that deep chocolaty goodness you crave.
- 2 large eggs: They bind everything together, creating a beautifully tender bake.
- 2 cups quick cooking oats: The hearty base for a comforting and filling texture.
- 2 cups chocolate milk: Adds natural chocolate flavor plus extra creaminess and moisture.
- ¼ cup cocoa powder: Cranks up the chocolate intensity without overpowering.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor with subtle sweetness and warmth.
- ½ tsp baking powder: Gives a light lift so the oats aren’t too dense.
- 2 Tbsp melted butter: Adds a luscious richness and helps achieve a golden-baked finish.
- â…“ cup Greek yogurt: Adds moistness and a slight tang that balances the chocolate flavors.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, making the chocolate pop.
- ¼ cup maple syrup: Natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
- ½-1 tsp espresso powder (optional): A little secret to make the chocolate flavor even more intense.
- ½-¾ cup chocolate chips: For melty pockets of gooey chocolate in every bite.
How to Make Chocolate Baked Oats Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While the oven warms up, take a moment to grease an 8×8-inch baking pan, so nothing sticks and the edges turn that perfect golden crisp.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
Whisk the eggs in the bottom of a large mixing bowl until frothy and light. This step is crucial because it makes the bake nice and fluffy. Then pour in the chocolate milk and vanilla extract, stirring gently to combine those flavors perfectly.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In the same bowl, add your oats, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, espresso powder (if using), and if you want extra richness, melted butter and the Greek yogurt. Stir everything together until you have a uniform batter with no dry spots—this part is very satisfying to watch come together!
Step 4: Add the Sweet Touch
Pour in the maple syrup, then fold in your chocolate chips. They’ll melt into gooey pockets throughout the bake, turning every bite into a little chocolate celebration.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the oat mixture into the prepared pan, smoothing the top so it bakes evenly. Pop it in the oven for 30 to 40 minutes, checking around 30 minutes by poking a toothpick in the center. It should come out mostly clean, maybe with a tiny bit of moistness—that means it’s perfect.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Once out of the oven, let your Chocolate Baked Oats Recipe cool for about 10 minutes. This resting time lets the bake firm up so you can slice neat squares that hold together beautifully.
How to Serve Chocolate Baked Oats Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little flaky sea salt on top right after it’s baked for an amazing salty contrast that uplifts the chocolate. Or go the fresh route with a dollop of yogurt and a handful of berries—strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries all make incredible toppings.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a cup of your morning favorite coffee or a fresh smoothie for a balanced breakfast. The oats are filling enough to stand on their own but add some fresh fruit salad or nuts on the side if you want to mix it up.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your squares warm with a swirl of warm nut butter or peanut sauce drizzled on top. For a fun twist, cut them into bite-sized cubes and serve on skewers with fruit or marshmallows for a decadent brunch option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Chocolate Baked Oats Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay moist and delicious for up to 4 days, making breakfast prep next week a total breeze.
Freezing
If you want to keep them longer, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen slices will last up to 3 months and thaw quickly when you’re ready to enjoy.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers by microwaving for about 30-45 seconds or warming in a preheated oven at 300°F for 10 minutes. Both ways bring back the freshly baked warmth and soften the chocolate chips perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of chocolate milk?
Absolutely! If you don’t have chocolate milk on hand, regular milk works fine—just add extra cocoa powder to maintain that rich chocolate flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! Chocolate Baked Oats Recipe is a great make-ahead breakfast that reheats well and keeps you fueled throughout busy mornings.
Can I substitute the Greek yogurt with something else?
You can swap Greek yogurt for a non-dairy yogurt or even sour cream. The key is keeping that moisture and slight tang for balance.
What’s the role of espresso powder in the recipe?
Espresso powder enhances the chocolate’s depth without making it taste like coffee. It’s optional but highly recommended for chocolate lovers.
Can I add nuts or dried fruit to this oats bake?
Yes! Chopped nuts or dried fruit add wonderful texture and flavor. Just fold them in along with the chocolate chips before baking.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Baked Oats Recipe is one of those joys that turns simple ingredients into a comforting, chocolatey delight that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether for a weekend brunch or a cozy breakfast ritual, it feels like a treat without the fuss. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved favorite in your kitchen.
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 Chocolate Baked Oats recipe is a delicious and wholesome breakfast treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with hearty oats. Perfectly baked to a soft, cake-like texture, it makes for a nutritious start to your day or a comforting snack. With simple ingredients like eggs, oats, cocoa powder, and chocolate milk, this easy-to-make dish is delightfully satisfying and customizable with optional toppings such as yogurt, berries, or sea salt.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups chocolate milk
- 2 Tbsp melted butter
- â…“ cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups quick cooking oats
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½–1 tsp espresso powder (optional)
- ½ tsp salt
Add-ins
- ½–¾ cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the oats mixture to perfection.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the 2 large eggs thoroughly. Then add the chocolate milk, melted butter, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine all wet ingredients evenly.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Add the quick cooking oats, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and espresso powder (if using) to the bowl. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Incorporate Chocolate Chips: Once the mixture is well combined, fold in the chocolate chips to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease an 8×8 inch baking pan to prevent sticking, then pour the chocolate oat mixture into the pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes. Bake until the edges and top are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with slight moisture, which indicates it’s perfectly cooked.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and let the baked oats cool for approximately 10 minutes to set further. Slice into portions and optionally top with flaky sea salt, yogurt, or fresh berries before serving.
Notes
- Espresso powder is optional but enhances the richness of the chocolate flavor.
- Use quick cooking oats for best texture; rolled oats will change baking time and texture.
- Allow the baked oats to cool slightly before slicing to ensure clean portions.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute chocolate milk with a plant-based milk and use a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
- For extra indulgence, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top after baking to contrast the sweetness.
