Chocolate Baked Oats

Name: Chocolate Baked Oats
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup old fashioned oats; 1 ripe banana; 1 large egg; 1 tbsp maple syrup; 1 tbsp cocoa powder; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 1/8 tsp sea salt; chocolate chips (optional)

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These chocolate baked oats are the perfect single serving breakfast that tastes like dessert, making them a delicious guilt-free option.

overhead shot of chocolate baked oats in ramekin

When it comes to breakfast, using oats is one of my go-tos - from blackberry oatmeal muffins to cinnamon overnight oats to banana baked oatmeal.

But all of those pass the "breakfast look." I'll be honest when I say these chocolate baked oats don't look like breakfast. That's what makes it great though.

You think you are eating dessert, but it is in fact a healthy and hearty breakfast.

Why This Recipe Works

Easy - Whipping up a batch of these baked oats is a breeze, taking no more than 5 minutes to combine all the ingredients before baking.
Healthy - Not only are oats loaded with nutrients, but you get the added benefits of the banana. If you want more protein, you can try these protein baked oats.
Kid-Friendly - It is great for both kids and adults.
Chocolate Lovers - These oats deliver a decadently rich and indulgent flavor.

Jump to:

Why This Recipe Works
Ingredient Notes
Ingredient Swaps
Variations
Step-by-Step Photos
FAQs
Health Benefits
Equipment
Pro Tips/Recipe Notes
Other Breakfast Recipes
Chocolate Baked Oats

overhead shot of ingredients for chocolate baked oats

Ingredient Notes

Oats - Opt for old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture. Instant oats may become too mushy when baked.
Banana - You want a super ripe banana as it adds natural sweetness.
Egg - Adds structure to the baked oats.
Maple syrup - Adjust the amount of sweetener to your taste.
Cocoa powder - Use unsweetened cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor. You can change the amount based on your preference for intensity.
Baking powder - Helps the oats rise and become fluffy. Ensure it is fresh for optimal results.
Vanilla extract - Adds a lovely aroma and enhances the chocolate flavor. Use pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
Salt - A small amount of salt enhances the overall flavor of the oats.
Chocolate chips - Optional but recommended for extra bursts of chocolate goodness. Choose your favorite type, such as dark, milk, or semi-sweet chips.

Ingredient Swaps

As with any recipe, you can mix up the ingredients if you prefer. Some variations include:

Banana is my go-to for natural sweetener but a mashed sweet potato or even applesauce are good substitutes.
If you want to make your breakfast vegan, make a chia seed egg instead of using an egg. Just mix 1 tablespoon of chia seeds with 2 ½ tablespoon water and let sit for 5 minutes before using.
I like to use maple syrup for added sweetness, however you can use honey or just sugar if you prefer.

Variations

Protein Baked Oats - You can substitute the cocoa powder with chocolate whey protein powder.
Coffee Baked Oats - Adding 1 teaspoon of instant espresso adds a touch of coffee flavor and enhances the chocolate.
Lava Baked Oats - Add 2 tablespoon of your favorite nut butter to the middle or a square of chocolate to make it similar to lava cakes.

Step-by-Step Photos

Please note full ingredient list and instructions can be found in recipe card below.

process shots of blending ingredients in blender before adding to ramekin and baking

Add all of the ingredients to a blender, blending until everything is combined. Transfer batter to a greased 8 oz ramekin and top with some chocolate chips.

Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until done.

FAQs

Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Old-Fashioned Oats?

For optimal texture, it is recommended to use old-fashioned rolled oats instead of instant oats. Instant oats may become overly soft and mushy during the baking process.

Can I Make Vegan?

Yes. Use vegan chocolate chips and make with a chia seed egg.

Are Chocolate Baked Oats Gluten-Free?

Yes, you can use certified gluten-free rolled oats to make the recipe gluten-free. Make sure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I Add Additional Toppings or Mix-ins?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with toppings like fresh fruits, nuts, shredded coconut, or a drizzle of nut butter. Get creative and enjoy your favorite combinations!

Can I Make in Advance?

Yes, you can make a batch in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the microwave or oven before serving.

How Long Will They Last?

You can keep in the fridge for 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Health Benefits

Oats/oatmeal is one of the best ways to start the day. There are a ton of benefits, including:

High in fiber, which keeps you full long
Contain more protein than most grains
Rich in antioxidants, which can help lower blood pressure
Lower cholesterol
Help lose weight

Equipment

The equipment you use is important to how the recipe turns out. What is needed is the following:

Blender/Food processor - Used to blend all of the ingredients until smooth.
Ramekin - This recipe is perfect for an 8 oz ramekin.

Pro Tips/Recipe Notes

Quadruple the recipe if you want to make in a 13x9 baking dish.
You can adjust the sweetness level by adding or taking away maple syrup in tablespoon increments.
Experiment with additional mix-ins like chopped nuts, dried fruits, or shredded coconut to add extra texture and flavor to your baked oats.
Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the mixture for a subtle and aromatic flavor twist.

close-up of chocolate baked oats in white ramekin

Other Breakfast Recipes

If you’ve tried these chocolate baked oats or any other recipe on Chisel & Fork, please let me know how it turned out in the comments below! You can also follow me on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube to see more tasty meals and anything else I'm up to.