Chocolate Baked Oats

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This chocolate baked oats recipe is a super easy, hearty, make-ahead healthy breakfast that feels just a little indulgent. You can make it on a Sunday and eat it all week.

closeup of a slice of chocolate baked oats served with fresh raspberries

Note: I have made some changes to this recipe, which was originally for plain baked oatmeal with chocolate chips and raspberries over the years, and re-vamped this post. I think they’re even better, but you are looking for the original, reach out and I’ll be happy to send it over!

I don’t know about you, but for me, morning routines follow pretty much the same pattern everyday. Wake up, prepare for the day, and grab a quick, familiar bite before starting with work.

Lately, I’ve been thinking…I have a hard time eating the same thing for lunch or dinner two days in a row, so why does breakfast get the shaft? Breakfast is supposed to be the most important meal of the day, so why did I let it get so boring?

Actually I know why. It’s already a struggle to plan a full week of dinners and lunches, so breakfast is the one meal I give myself a break on.

But it turns out there’s another way. Baked oatmeal! Actually, these chocolate baked oats to be a bit more precise. Throw some rolled oats and a few other simple ingredients together in a baking dish, put it in the oven, and in half an hour or so you have breakfast for the week.

a dish of chocolate baked oats topped with fresh raspberries

Are Oats Good for Breakfast?

There is no doubt oats are a great way to start the day. They are nutritious, rich in essential nutrients like fiber, protein, and vitamins. The high fiber content in oats helps in maintaining digestive health and keeping you full for longer, which can aid in weight management.

And it doesn’t have to be boring! From Pumpkin Oatmeal Muffins to this Caramelized Banana Pecan Oatmeal, there’s a variety of ways to infuse flavor and excitement into your first meal of the day.

And for mornings when time isn’t on your side, Blueberry Overnight Oats have your back – just mix the ingredients the night before, and wake up to a ready-to-eat, delicious breakfast.

overhead view of a serving of chocolate baked oats topped with raspberries

But, one of my favorite oats recipe has to be these chocolate baked oats. It has a cake-like texture and a rich chocolate flavor, that just makes me look forward to breakfast whenever I meal prep these. You can add any fresh fruit of your choice, like fresh berries, bananas, or even apples. It’s a perfectly filling and healthy breakfast option!

Ingredient Notes

Ingredients to make chocolate baked oats with labels.

Milk

The liquid base of these chocolate-baked oats, milk brings creaminess and moisture. You can use any type of milk. I tend to use dairy milk, but you can use any plant-based milk like almond milk or oat milk for a vegan option.

Eggs

They provide structure to the baked oatmeal, helping them to set and not be too dense. For a vegan alternative, flax egg makes a great substitute.

Vanilla Extract

A splash of vanilla extract adds a layer of sweet, aromatic flavor that complements the chocolate and oats.

Old fashioned Oats

Rolled oats are ideal for baking as they provide a chewy texture and are hearty. Quick oats can be used too, but the texture will be different. And if you want this to be gluten-free, use gluten-free oats!

Cocoa Powder

I usually opt for unsweetened cocoa powder to infuse rich, chocolatey flavor without added sugar.

Baking Powder

This leavening agent helps the chocolate baked oats rise, giving them a lighter, more cake-like texture.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon adds a subtle spice that pairs wonderfully with chocolate and oats. It’s optional but recommended for a hint of warmth.

Maple syrup

Maple syrup brings a natural sweetness to these chocolate baked oats, without refined sugars. You can adjust the amount based on how sweet you like your breakfast. Honey can be used instead.

Olive oil

Provides moisture to the chocolate baked oats. You can substitute it with melted butter or melted coconut oil for different flavor profiles.

Chocolate chips

I love adding some chocolate chips for a double chocolate effect! They add pockets of melted chocolate throughout the baked oatmeal.

You can use dark chocolate chips for a rich chocolate flavor, or even white chocolate chips. I prefer using semi-sweet.

Don’t forget to watch the video!

Most of my recipes include a short step-by-step video tutorial. Just scroll down to the recipe card, or use the “Jump to Video” button at the top of the post!

Step by Step Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350F and grease the baking dish.
  1. Whisk together the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract in a large bowl.
milk eggs and vanilla in a bowl
whisked eggs and milk mixture
  1. Now add in the rolled oats, cocoa powder, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, maple syrup, olive oil, and ¼ cup of chocolate chips. Stir until just combined.
dry ingredients added to the wet batter
dry ingredients whisked in the wet batter
  1. Pour the oat mixture in the baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until just set.
chocolate oats mixture poured in a baking dish
  1. Sprinkle the rest of the chocolate chips while it is still warm and serve.
chocolate chips sprinkled on the warm chocolate baked oats

Add-in Suggestions

These chocolate baked oats are delicious as they are but there are plenty of things you can add in their for a boost of flavor or nutrition!

Espresso Powder: For coffee lovers, a teaspoon of espresso powder will deepen the chocolate flavor.

Chia Seeds: Sprinkle in chia seeds for extra fiber and a slight crunch.

chocolate baked oats in a baking dish topped with fresh raspberries

Protein-Packed: Add a scoop of your favorite chocolate protein powder for an extra boost and more chocolate flavor.

Coconut Twist: Use coconut milk and add shredded coconut for a tropical flavor.

Serving Suggestions

  • Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy texture and a protein boost.
  • Top with any fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for a fresh, tart contrast.
  • Sprinkle with chopped almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds for crunch and added nutrition.
  • Nut butters! A spoonful of almond butter, cashew butter, or a drizzle of peanut butter can add richness and a nutty flavor.
  • For an indulgent dessert, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store the chocolate baked oats in an airtight container. They will remain fresh for about 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing: For long-term storage, wrap individual portions tightly in cling film or freezer-safe containers. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or reheat directly from frozen.

Are chocolate baked oats healthy?

Yes! I would consider these chocolate baked oats a healthy breakfast option as it uses maple syrup and no refined sugars. You get plenty of fiber from the oats and you can add some fruits and nuts for more nutrition.

Can I use steel-cut oats for this recipe?

Steel-cut oats take longer to cook than rolled oats, so you will need to adjust the baking time accordingly. The texture would also be different!

Are these chocolate baked oats gluten free?

Oats themselves are naturally gluten-free, but some oat products can be contaminated with gluten through cross-contamination with wheat, barley, or rye during processing or packaging. Look for oats labelled “certified gluten-free” to ensure safe consumption.

Tell me what you think!

If you try this recipe, l’d be so grateful if you’d leave a comment and a rating in the recipe card. I love to hear your feedback, and your tips can help other readers too!

Closeup side view of a slice of chocolate baked oatmeal garnished with raspberries.

Chocolate Baked Oatmeal

This dark chocolate baked oats recipe is a super easy, hearty, make-ahead healthy breakfast that feels just a little indulgent. You can make it on a Sunday and eat it all week.
5 from 1 vote
Print Pin Rate Save
Course: Breakfast/Brunch
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 362kcal
Author: Ann Otis

Ingredients

  • 1 ¾ cup milk
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
  • ¼ cup cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • cup maple syrup
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ cup chocolate chips divided
  • Fruit for serving

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350F and grease a 2 quart baking dish (9×9 works well)
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and vanilla.
  • Add the rolled oats, cocoa powder, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, maple syrup, olive oil, and ¼ cup of chocolate chips. Stir until just combined.
  • Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 mins or until set.
  • Immediately sprinkled the remaining chocolate chips evenly on top. Serve warm with berries, bananas, or other fruit of choice.

Video

Notes

Storage Instructions
Refrigeration: Store the chocolate baked oats in an airtight container. They will remain fresh for about 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing: For long-term storage, wrap individual portions tightly in cling film or freezer-safe containers. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or reheat directly from frozen.

Nutrition

Calories: 362kcal | Carbohydrates: 47g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Cholesterol: 65mg | Sodium: 257mg | Potassium: 388mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 24g | Vitamin A: 228IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 180mg | Iron: 2mg
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