If you’ve ever dreamed of a cozy, chocolatey breakfast that feels indulgent yet wholesome, then this Chocolate Baked Oats Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. It’s a delightful blend of quick-cooking oats, rich cocoa, and melty chocolate chips baked into a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for mornings when you want something special but still easy to make. Beyond just being delicious, this recipe gives you the perfect balance of creamy, tender oats and deep chocolate flavor, all with a hint of espresso powder to really make the chocolate pop. Get ready to fall in love with a breakfast that feels like dessert in the best possible way!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chocolate Baked Oats Recipe lies in its simplicity—just a handful of everyday ingredients that come together in perfect harmony. Each component has a purpose, from the oats providing hearty texture to the Greek yogurt adding moistness and a slight tang, creating a wonderfully balanced dish.
- 2 large eggs: These bind the oats together and add a nice richness to the texture.
- 2 cups quick cooking oats: The star ingredient that gives body and heartiness to the bake.
- 2 cups chocolate milk: Adds chocolate flavor and moisture for a creamy, smooth result.
- ¼ cup cocoa powder: Delivers intense chocolate goodness and beautiful color.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.
- ½ tsp baking powder: Gives a gentle lift for a light, tender crumb.
- 2 Tbsp melted butter: Adds richness and a subtle buttery flavor.
- â…“ cup Greek yogurt: Keeps the bake moist while adding a touch of tanginess.
- ½ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and deepens flavor complexity.
- ¼ cup maple syrup: Natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
- ½-1 tsp espresso powder (optional): Intensifies the chocolate flavor without overpowering it.
- ½-¾ cup chocolate chips: Melts slightly for gooey pockets of chocolate joy throughout the bake.
How to Make Chocolate Baked Oats Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8 inch baking pan to make sure your oats bake don’t stick and lift cleanly once done. This prep step sets you up for a smooth baking experience and easy cleanup afterwards.
Step 2: Mix the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Crack the eggs into a large bowl and whisk them lightly. Then add in the quick oats, chocolate milk, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, baking powder, melted butter, Greek yogurt, salt, maple syrup, and espresso powder if you’re using it. Stir everything together until you have a smooth, chocolaty batter. This part is so satisfying because you begin to see how all these simple ingredients transform into something so delicious. Finally, fold in the chocolate chips—they’ll create those irresistible little bursts of melted chocolate in every bite.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Pour the mixture into your greased pan, spreading it out evenly. Pop it in the oven and let it bake for 30 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges look set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean—some moist crumbs are perfectly normal since this bake remains beautifully fudgy. Baking creates that wonderful golden crust that contrasts with the tender oats inside.
Step 4: Cool and Prepare to Enjoy
Once out of the oven, allow the baked oats to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time lets everything set nicely and makes for easier portions. Now your Chocolate Baked Oats Recipe is ready to be enjoyed warm and gooey or at room temperature—both are amazing!
How to Serve Chocolate Baked Oats Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the top to highlight the chocolate’s sweetness and add a sophisticated touch. Or top with a dollop of your favorite yogurt and fresh berries to introduce some brightness and fresh acidity, balancing the richness deliciously.
Side Dishes
Pair with a side of fresh fruit salad for a lighter counterpoint, or serve alongside a steaming mug of coffee or your preferred morning beverage. The warm oats and cold drink combo is surprisingly satisfying and will make your breakfast feel extra indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful twist, cut your baked oats into small squares and serve them as brownies for a brunch party—or warm individual portions in ramekins for single servings topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an elegant touch. This Chocolate Baked Oats Recipe lends itself so well to creative presentations, making it perfect for any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover baked oats can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it perfect for grab-and-go breakfasts all week long without losing any of the fresh-baked charm.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, wrap portions tightly or store in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to keep the texture just right.
Reheating
Reheat your slices gently in the microwave for about 30–60 seconds or pop them in a warm oven for a few minutes. This helps revive the melty chocolate and make everything taste freshly baked again.
FAQs
Can I use rolled oats instead of quick cooking oats?
Yes, rolled oats can be used but expect a slightly chewier texture. Quick oats blend smoother for a more uniform bake, but both options work well depending on your preference.
Is espresso powder necessary?
The espresso powder is optional but highly recommended as it enhances and deepens the chocolate flavor without making the dish taste like coffee. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, you can leave it out without impacting the texture.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
You can try substituting the eggs with flax or chia eggs, use plant-based milk and yogurt, and swap butter for coconut oil. The texture might vary slightly, but it’s a wonderful experiment to create a vegan version of this Chocolate Baked Oats Recipe.
How sweet is this recipe? Can I adjust the sweetness?
The maple syrup provides a gentle sweetness that complements the chocolate without being overpowering. Feel free to add more or less syrup to suit your taste, or swap it for honey or agave.
Can I add other mix-ins besides chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Nuts, dried fruit, or even a swirl of peanut butter can add exciting flavors and textures. Just keep in mind that added ingredients may change baking times slightly.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Baked Oats Recipe has quickly become a cherished morning treat in my kitchen, and I hope it will in yours too. It’s the perfect balance of healthy and indulgent, easy to make, and endlessly adaptable to your personal taste. So why not give it a try? Cozy up with a warm slice and enjoy a little chocolate happiness to start your day right.
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
A rich and comforting Chocolate Baked Oats recipe that combines wholesome oats and chocolate milk with cocoa powder and chocolate chips for a delicious, healthy breakfast or snack. This baked dish is easy to prepare, naturally sweetened with maple syrup, and enhanced with optional espresso powder to deepen the chocolate flavor. Perfectly set and slightly fudgy, it can be enjoyed warm or cold, topped with a sprinkle of sea salt or fresh berries for added freshness.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups chocolate milk
- 2 Tbsp melted butter
- â…“ cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup maple syrup
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups quick cooking oats
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 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 reaches the correct temperature for baking your oats evenly.
- Mix Wet Ingredients and Oats: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs thoroughly, then add chocolate milk, melted butter, Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, and maple syrup. Stir well to combine all wet ingredients.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Add the quick cooking oats, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and espresso powder (if using) to the wet mixture. Stir until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently stir in the chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan to prevent sticking, then pour the chocolate oat mixture evenly into the pan.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the top and edges are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. A little moisture on the toothpick is acceptable as it will continue to cook slightly after baking.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the baked oats to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before slicing. Optionally sprinkle with flaky sea salt or serve with yogurt and fresh berries for extra flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute chocolate milk with regular milk and add an extra tablespoon of cocoa powder for intense chocolate flavor.
- Espresso powder is optional but enhances the chocolate flavor; omit if you prefer a milder taste or if serving to children.
- Use quick cooking oats for a softer texture; rolled oats can also be used but may change the consistency slightly.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat gently before serving.
- This recipe can be doubled and baked in a larger pan, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
