Chocolate Strawberry Baked Oatmeal
Chocolate Strawberry Baked Oatmeal is a sweet and cozy breakfast that feels a little like a treat but is packed with wholesome oats, juicy strawberries, and melty chocolate chips. It’s…
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Chocolate Strawberry Baked Oatmeal is a sweet and cozy breakfast that feels a little like a treat but is packed with wholesome oats, juicy strawberries, and melty chocolate chips. It’s warm, comforting, and just the right mix of fruity and chocolatey flavors, all baked together into a soft, satisfying dish.
I love making this baked oatmeal on weekend mornings when there’s time to enjoy breakfast at a relaxed pace. The smell of strawberries and chocolate filling the kitchen is just the best start to the day. I usually prepare it the night before, so all I have to do is pop it in the oven in the morning, and it’s ready when I am. Plus, leftovers reheat really well, which means a yummy breakfast any day of the week.
My favorite way to serve this is with a little splash of milk or a dollop of yogurt on top. It makes the bowl even creamier and brings out the flavors more. If you’re feeding a crowd, this recipe is great because it’s easy to make in one big dish, and everyone can grab a warm serving straight from the oven. It always feels like a special breakfast, perfect for starting the day on a happy note.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats give baked oatmeal a nice texture—soft but still a bit chewy. If you want, you can use old-fashioned oats, but avoid quick oats as they may turn mushy.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa adds rich chocolate flavor without extra sugar. For a milder taste, Dutch-processed cocoa works well but might change color slightly.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add juicy bursts of flavor and natural sweetness. Frozen strawberries can work too, but drain excess liquid before adding to avoid a soggy bake.
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips balance the tartness of the berries. You can also use dark or milk chocolate chips depending on your sweetness preference.
Milk: Any milk works here—cow’s milk, almond, oat, or soy. Choose your favorite for creaminess or dietary needs.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for Baked Oatmeal?
The key to perfect baked oatmeal is the balance between wet and dry ingredients. Too much liquid can make it mushy; too little can make it dry.
- Whisk eggs and milk well to bind the oats and add moisture.
- Let the oats soak in the wet ingredients for 5 minutes before baking to soften them slightly.
- Don’t overbake—35 to 40 minutes is usually enough. The edges should be set and pulling away from the sides, but the center stays soft.
When you cut into it, the oatmeal should hold its shape but still be tender and moist. Serving it warm with a splash of milk or yogurt makes it extra enjoyable.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 8×8-inch baking dish – perfect size for even baking and making enough servings.
- Mixing bowls – one large for dry ingredients and one medium for wet ingredients to keep things tidy.
- Whisk – helps blend eggs, milk, and sweeteners smoothly for even texture.
- Spatula or spoon – to mix everything together gently without crushing the fruit.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts and consistent results.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Blueberries or raspberries instead of strawberries – these berries add a different fruity tang and hold their shape nicely.
- Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans – add crunch and nutty flavor that pairs well with chocolate.
- Use white chocolate chips or butterscotch chips – for a sweeter, creamier twist on the chocolate flavor.
- Add a teaspoon of espresso powder – this intensifies the chocolate taste without making it taste like coffee.
Chocolate Strawberry Baked Oatmeal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
- 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil or butter
- Optional for topping: drizzle of melted chocolate or extra chocolate chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This baked oatmeal recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare, then 35-40 minutes to bake until set and slightly golden. Allow a few minutes to cool before serving. Total time is approximately 50-55 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 inch square baking dish so your oatmeal won’t stick and is easy to serve.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, stir together the rolled oats, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon if you’re using it. Mixing these dry ingredients well helps spread the flavors evenly.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, maple syrup or honey, brown sugar if using, and the melted coconut oil or butter. Mix until everything is smooth and blended.
4. Combine Wet and Dry:
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently but thoroughly until all the oats are coated and the mixture looks uniform.
5. Add Strawberries and Chocolate Chips:
Fold in most of the sliced strawberries and the chocolate chips. Be sure to save some strawberry slices to decorate the top later. Folding in gently prevents breaking up the berries too much.
6. Assemble and Bake:
Transfer the oat mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then arrange the reserved strawberry slices neatly on top. Bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the oatmeal is set and the edges pull slightly away from the dish.
7. Finish and Serve:
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. For a lovely finishing touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the top or sprinkle with extra chocolate chips. Serve warm—with a splash of milk, a dollop of yogurt, or even some vanilla ice cream for a cozy breakfast or dessert.
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well so excess moisture doesn’t make the oatmeal soggy. Pat them dry with a paper towel before folding into the mixture.
How Do I Store Leftover Baked Oatmeal?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg), and swap the butter for coconut oil or vegan butter.
What Are Some Good Substitutions for Chocolate Chips?
If you don’t have chocolate chips, try chopped chocolate bars, carob chips, or even dried fruit like raisins or chopped dates for a different twist. Nuts also add great texture and flavor!
