Chocolate Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal

Start your day with a fusion of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter that feels like a treat but is wholesome enough to enjoy any time. This Chocolate Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it the perfect breakfast or snack option. Whether you’re fueling up for a busy day or indulging in a cozy weekend brunch, this baked oatmeal is sure to satisfy your cravings while providing the energy you need.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chocolate Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal is a game-changer for breakfast lovers. It combines the heartiness of oats with the sweetness of ripe bananas and the indulgence of chocolate, all while being incredibly easy to prepare. Not only is it a delightful way to enjoy oats, but it also offers versatility for meal prep. You can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week, and it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings or mix-ins. Plus, who can resist the combination of chocolate and peanut butter? It’s a classic that never gets old!

Gather These Ingredients

To whip up this delectable Chocolate Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups old-fashioned oats
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas)
• 1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk (or milk of your choice)
• 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips, divided

For serving, you might want to add a drizzle of peanut butter and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for that extra touch!

Tools & Equipment Needed

Prepare your kitchen with the following tools:

• Mixing bowls: For combining your ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate measurements.
• Baking dish: A 9×9-inch dish works perfectly for this recipe.
• Whisk: For mixing the wet ingredients smoothly.
• Spatula: To fold in the chocolate chips and serve the baked oatmeal.

Stepwise Method: Chocolate Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your baked oatmeal cooks evenly and becomes perfectly fluffy.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the old-fashioned oats, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and kosher salt. Stir these dry ingredients together until well mixed.

Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Then add the almond milk, creamy peanut butter, eggs, pure maple syrup, and pure vanilla extract. Whisk together until everything is combined and the mixture is creamy.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in about 1/3 cup of the chocolate chips, reserving the rest for the top of the oatmeal.

Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish

Grease your baking dish lightly, then pour the oatmeal mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips on top for an extra chocolaty finish.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the oatmeal to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, drizzled with extra peanut butter and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt if desired.

Make It Fit Your Plan

This Chocolate Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal can easily be adapted to fit various dietary needs:

• For a vegan option, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg).
• To make it gluten-free, ensure that your oats are certified gluten-free.
• For a sugar-free option, replace the pure maple syrup with a sugar substitute of your choice.
• Add nuts, seeds, or dried fruits for extra nutrition and flavor!

Method to the Madness

The beauty of this Chocolate Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal lies in its simplicity and the delightful balance of flavors. Oats provide a hearty base, while bananas add natural sweetness and moisture. The cocoa powder offers rich chocolate flavor without added sugar, and the peanut butter contributes protein and creaminess. By baking it all together, you create a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for any meal. Plus, it’s customizable! Want to add a handful of nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon? Go for it! The possibilities are endless.

Storage Pro Tips

To keep your Chocolate Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal fresh and delicious:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick breakfast or snack.
• For longer storage, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Common Qs About Chocolate Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal

Can I make this baked oatmeal ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture the night before and store it in the fridge. Just bake it in the morning for a quick breakfast.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This baked oatmeal is perfect for meal prep. Make a large batch and portion it out for the week. It reheats wonderfully.

Can I use other types of milk?

Of course! Feel free to substitute almond milk with any milk of your choice, such as soy, oat, or cow’s milk.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply use certified gluten-free oats, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free version of this baked oatmeal!

Because You Liked This

If you enjoyed this delicious recipe, you might also like:

• Sally’s Baking Addiction for more delightful breakfast ideas
• Pinch of Yum for wholesome and hearty meals
• Minimalist Baker for easy and delicious recipes

Final Thoughts

Chocolate Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that wraps you in warmth and satisfaction. With its rich chocolate flavor, creamy peanut butter, and wholesome oats, it’s a breakfast option that you won’t want to miss. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or reheated throughout the week, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and enjoy a slice of this chocolaty goodness!