There’s a delightful charm that comes with the comforting aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through the kitchen. This Brownie Baked Oatmeal does just that—combining the rich, indulgent taste of brownies with the wholesome goodness of oatmeal. Picture this: a cool morning, the sun peeking through the window, and your family’s excited murmurs filling the air as they catch a whiff of cocoa and vanilla.
I found myself searching for a way to brighten those busy mornings when the dreaded fast-food options just wouldn’t cut it anymore. In my quest, I stumbled upon this gem of a recipe, and now it’s a staple in our home—a perfect blend of nutrition and sweet, chocolatey satisfaction. With just 10 minutes of prep and a mere 25 minutes in the oven, you’ll have a scrumptious breakfast that’s not only easy to whip up but also guarantees leftovers for a quick snack later.
Let’s dive into creating something that promises to please every palate while keeping the spirit of homemade love alive!
Why is Brownie Baked Oatmeal a Must-Try?
Decadent Flavor: This dish combines chocolate and oats, resulting in a rich, satisfying breakfast.
Quick to Prepare: With only 10 minutes of prep, it’s become a go-to for busy mornings.
Healthy Twist: Packed with nutritious ingredients like bananas and almond milk, you can enjoy a sweet treat without guilt.
Versatile Enjoyment: It’s perfect for brunch gatherings or as a simple snack throughout the week.
Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone—from kids to adults—will love this delicious twist on oatmeal. Elevate your breakfast game with this fantastic recipe that’s sure to impress!
Brownie Baked Oatmeal Ingredients
Get ready to taste the magic of a breakfast favorite!
For the Oatmeal Base
• 2 bananas, mashed – They add natural sweetness and moisture to the mix.
• 1/4 cup cashew butter – This creamy nut butter provides healthy fats and a rich flavor.
• 1 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk – A dairy-free option that keeps the oatmeal light and fluffy.
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup – A touch of natural sweetness to enhance the overall chocolate taste.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract – It adds a wonderful depth of flavor that complements the cocoa.
For the Dry Ingredients
• 2 cups rolled oats – The star ingredient, providing a hearty and satisfying texture.
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – This gives the recipe its brownie-like taste—an essential for Brownie Baked Oatmeal!
• 2 tsp baking powder – Helps the oatmeal rise for a fluffier texture.
• 1/4 tsp salt – A pinch enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.
For the Topping
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips – These will melt beautifully during baking, adding delicious pockets of chocolate throughout.
Feel free to personalize this delightful dish by swapping ingredients, but rest assured, every bite of this Brownie Baked Oatmeal is a warm hug of flavor!
How to Make Brownie Baked Oatmeal
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Preheat the oven to 400°F. This ensures a perfectly baked oatmeal with a warm, comforting center and a slightly crispy top.
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Combine the wet ingredients: in a large mixing bowl, mix together the mashed bananas, cashew butter, almond milk, pure maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
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Mix in the dry ingredients: add the rolled oats, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Stir until everything is well combined and the mixture is thick and chocolatey.
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Fold in the chocolate chips. This adds delightful pockets of melted chocolate throughout your Brownie Baked Oatmeal, making each bite a treat!
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Transfer the oatmeal mixture to a prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly and, for an extra chocolate boost, top with more chocolate chips if desired.
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Bake for 25 minutes. The top should be set and slightly firmer to the touch, while the inside remains soft and fudgy.
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Cool slightly after removing from the oven, then cut into squares. Let them sit for a few minutes—this helps them hold their shape!
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Enjoy! Serve warm, and watch as smiles light up the room with each delicious bite.
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of almond milk or sprinkle with nuts for added texture.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Brownie Baked Oatmeal
- Banana Ripeness: Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture. Overripe bananas will give your Brownie Baked Oatmeal a richer flavor.
- Cashew Butter Substitute: If you don’t have cashew butter, almond or peanut butter works great too. Just ensure it’s creamy for the best texture.
- Mix Thoroughly: Combine wet and dry ingredients well to avoid clumps. A smooth mixture leads to uniformly baked oatmeal and an irresistible bite.
- Baking Dish Size: Use an 8×8 or 9×9-inch dish for optimal cooking. A smaller dish may lead to longer baking times and uneven texture.
- Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge. You can also freeze individual portions for quick breakfasts!
What to Serve with Brownie Baked Oatmeal?
As you savor this delightful oatmeal, consider pairing it with complementary sides that enhance the experience and bring balance to your meal.
- Fresh Berries: Their vibrant flavor and natural sweetness provide a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate oatmeal.
- Greek Yogurt: A dollop of creamy yogurt offers tangy richness and adds protein for a more complete breakfast.
- Nutty Granola: Sprinkle some granola on top for added crunch and texture that beautifully complements the soft baked oats.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup enhances sweetness, making each bite even more indulgent.
- Banana Slices: Add sliced bananas for a wholesome touch and extra banana goodness that ties back to the recipe!
- Milk or Almond Milk: A glass of cold milk or almond milk keeps things light and hydrates while enjoying this treat.
- Chai or Coffee: The warm spices of chai or a hot cup of coffee creates a cozy vibe, perfect for your morning routine.
- Chocolate-Covered Almonds: For a classy finish, serve with these treats that mirror the chocolatey nature of the dish.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: This luscious topping brings a velvety texture, enhancing the dessert-like appeal of your oatmeal.
Brownie Baked Oatmeal Variations
Feel free to explore your creativity with this recipe and make it uniquely yours!
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Nut-Free: Substitute cashew butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free delight that brings an equal creamy texture.
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Plant-Based: Use maple syrup with agave nectar for a purely plant-based sweetener that keeps the indulgence alive.
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Superfood Boost: Add a tablespoon of chia seeds or ground flaxseeds for extra nutrition without altering the flavor.
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Fruity Addition: Fold in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and delightful nutty taste.
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Decadent Layer: Swirl in your favorite nut-free chocolate hazelnut spread before baking for an extra layer of rich, chocolaty goodness.
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Spiced Variant: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy spice that complements the cocoa beautifully.
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Lower Sugar: Scale down the maple syrup to 2 tablespoons and add a mashed sweet potato instead. This replaces sweetness naturally while enhancing the texture.
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Extra Chocolate: For the chocoholics, consider adding an additional 1/4 cup of cocoa powder, ensuring that it remains rich and fudgy just like a beautiful brownie.
Each variation creates a new experience, inviting you to make this recipe a staple in your kitchen!
Make Ahead Options
If you’re juggling a busy schedule, this Brownie Baked Oatmeal is perfect for meal prepping! You can prepare the oatmeal mixture (up to 24 hours) in advance by combining all the wet and dry ingredients and then refrigerating it in a sealed container. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavors as they meld overnight. When you’re ready to bake, simply transfer the mixture to a prepared baking dish, top with an extra sprinkle of chocolate chips if desired, and bake as directed. Just remember, while refrigerating helps maintain quality, the oatmeal is best enjoyed fresh from the oven for that delightful texture!
How to Store and Freeze Brownie Baked Oatmeal
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This will keep your Brownie Baked Oatmeal fresh and ready for quick breakfasts!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual squares wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply microwave a square for about 30-60 seconds or heat in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Room Temperature: If you plan to consume within a day, you can leave the oatmeal out at room temperature covered with a cloth, but use within 24 hours for the best texture and taste.
Brownie Baked Oatmeal Recipe FAQs
What ripeness of bananas should I use?
Absolutely! For the best results, use very ripe bananas that are heavily speckled or even blackened. Overripe bananas are sweeter and will add natural moisture to your Brownie Baked Oatmeal, enhancing the overall flavor.
How should I store Brownie Baked Oatmeal?
To keep your scrumptious creation fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This way, you can enjoy a quick and nutritious breakfast without any hassle!
Can I freeze the Brownie Baked Oatmeal?
Yes! Freezing is a great option if you want to meal prep. Simply cut the oatmeal into squares, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or oven.
What should I do if my oatmeal doesn’t rise?
Very good question! If your Brownie Baked Oatmeal doesn’t rise properly, ensure that your baking powder is fresh and active. Also, remember to mix the wet and dry ingredients thoroughly to avoid clumping. If you notice it still gets dense, it could be due to overmixing or too much cocoa powder, which can weigh it down.
Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?
Absolutely! If you’re catering to nut allergies, consider swapping out the cashew butter with sunflower seed butter. This alternative provides a creamy texture without the risk of nuts, making your Brownie Baked Oatmeal safe for everyone!
How can I enhance the flavor of my Brownie Baked Oatmeal?
You can certainly elevate the taste! For a little more decadence, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder into the mix. If you love texture, consider incorporating chopped nuts or shredded coconut. The more, the merrier!
Indulge in Brownie Baked Oatmeal for a Guilt-Free Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Combine the wet ingredients in a large mixing bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Mix in the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips.
- Transfer the mixture to a prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25 minutes.
- Cool slightly, then cut into squares.
- Serve warm.