Easy Chocolate Baked Oats

The kitchen was still dark when I first started making these baked oats, craving something warm before sunrise but not wanting to wake the whole house with a noisy blender or clanking pans. What I discovered was this incredible fudgy texture that feels like having dessert for breakfast without any of the guilt.

My roommate walked in during that first batch, following the chocolate smell, and immediately demanded the recipe. Now we make them every Sunday, each person customizing with their favorite toppings while the oven warms up the apartment.

Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats: Use old-fashioned oats rather than quick oats for the best texture and substance
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder: This creates that deep chocolate flavor without making it too sweet
• 1/2 tsp baking powder: Just enough to give the oats a little lift as they bake
• Pinch of salt: Essential for balancing and enhancing the chocolate flavor
• 1 ripe banana, mashed: The riper the banana, the sweeter and more naturally moist your baked oats will be
• 1 cup milk: Any milk works beautifully here, dairy or plant-based
• 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey: Adjust this based on how sweet your banana is and your personal preference
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Pure vanilla extract makes all the difference in rounding out the chocolate
• 2 tbsp chocolate chips: Dark chocolate chips create pockets of melted chocolate throughout
• Optional nuts: Walnuts or pecans add a lovely crunch and healthy fats

Instructions

Preheat and prep:

Heat your oven to 350°F and grease two ramekins with a little butter or oil

Mix the dry ingredients:

Whisk together the oats, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl until well combined

Combine the wet ingredients:

Mash your banana thoroughly in another bowl, then whisk in the milk, maple syrup, and vanilla until smooth

Bring it together:

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly moistened

Add the extras:

Fold in the chocolate chips and nuts gently, being careful not to overmix

Portion and top:

Divide the batter between your prepared ramekins and scatter a few extra chocolate chips on top

Bake to perfection:

Bake for 22 to 25 minutes until the oats are set and the tops have those irresistible cracks

The waiting game:

Let them cool for about 5 minutes before serving, which helps them set up even more

Save

These baked oats have become my go-to when friends stay over. There is something magical about pulling warm, chocolate-scented ramekins from the oven and watching people realize healthy breakfast can taste this good.

Make It Your Own

After making this recipe dozens of times, I have found that swapping in different extracts like almond or coffee creates wonderful variations. The banana provides such a solid base that you can really play around with flavors.

Storage Solutions

These oats actually reheat beautifully the next morning. I often make a double batch and store the cooled ramekins covered in the refrigerator for an instant breakfast that just needs 30 seconds in the microwave.

Serving Suggestions

While these are perfectly delicious on their own, a cold splash of milk over the warm oats creates the most comforting temperature contrast. I have also served them with a dollop of Greek yogurt for extra protein.

• Try adding fresh raspberries on top for a chocolate berry combination
• A sprinkle of sea salt over the melted chocolate chips elevates everything
• Serve with a hot cup of coffee for the ultimate cozy morning

Save

There is nothing quite like starting your day with something warm, chocolatey, and nourishing all at once.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use plant-based milk instead of dairy?

Yes, plant-based milk like almond or oat milk works well and keeps it dairy-free without compromising flavor.

→ How do I make it nut-free?

Simply omit the chopped nuts to keep the dish safe for nut-free diets while still enjoying the rich chocolate and banana taste.

→ Is it possible to sweeten with alternatives?

Maple syrup or honey are ideal natural sweeteners, but you can adjust sweetness or use agave syrup depending on preference.

→ What texture should I expect when baked?

The oats will be soft and fudgy with slightly cracked tops, providing a warm, comforting bite enhanced by melted chocolate chips.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

You can mix ingredients ahead and refrigerate the batter, then bake fresh when ready for optimal texture and flavor.