Chocolate Strawberry Baked Oatmeal
Chocolate Strawberry Baked Oatmeal is a cozy and delicious way to start your morning. It combines hearty oats with sweet strawberries and bits of melty chocolate, creating a warm, comforting…
By Ava
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Reading time: 6 min
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Chocolate Strawberry Baked Oatmeal is a cozy and delicious way to start your morning. It combines hearty oats with sweet strawberries and bits of melty chocolate, creating a warm, comforting breakfast that feels like a treat but is still wholesome. The soft texture of the baked oats pairs perfectly with the juicy, fresh strawberries and rich chocolate chunks.
I love making this recipe on weekends when I have more time to enjoy breakfast. It fills the kitchen with a wonderful scent that makes everyone ask what’s cooking! A little tip I have is to use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor, and don’t be afraid to add a handful of dark chocolate chips for that perfect touch of sweetness without it being too sugary.
This baked oatmeal is great on its own or topped with a splash of milk or a dollop of yogurt. I also like to prepare it the night before and reheat a serving in the morning when I’m in a rush. It’s like having a homemade breakfast bar ready to go, keeping that warm, cozy feeling but making mornings easier. Plus, it’s a fun way to get some fruit and fiber packed into the day right from the start!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Old-fashioned oats give the best texture here—they hold up well when baked, staying soft but not mushy. If you have quick oats, you can use them, but the texture will be a bit softer and less chewy.
Cocoa Powder: This adds rich chocolate flavor without extra sugar. Use unsweetened cocoa for a deeper taste, or substitute with carob powder for a caffeine-free option.
Sweetener: Brown sugar gives a nice caramel hint, but maple syrup works great if you want a liquid natural sweetener or prefer something vegan-friendly.
Strawberries: Fresh sliced strawberries add juicy brightness and balance the chocolate. Frozen strawberries can work but expect more moisture released during baking, so think about reducing the milk slightly.
Chocolate Chips: Dark chocolate chips bring a nice bittersweet contrast to the sweet fruit. Use dairy-free chips for a vegan version or chopped chocolate bars for a rustic feel.
How Do I Get the Oatmeal Firm but Moist?
The key is balancing wet and dry ingredients so the baked oatmeal sets but stays tender.
- Mix Dry First: Combine oats, cocoa, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and sugar thoroughly before adding wet ingredients to ensure even rising and flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: Stir wet and dry just until combined. Overmixing can make it dense.
- Use the Right Milk: Full-fat dairy or creamy plant milk helps keep it moist. If using low-fat milk, you might add a bit of melted butter or oil for richness.
- Check Baking Time: Bake until the center is just set and a toothpick comes out mostly clean. Overbaking dries it out, so start checking at 35 minutes.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking dish (8×8 inches or similar) – perfect size for even baking and easy serving.
- Mixing bowls – use one for dry ingredients and one for wet to keep things simple.
- Whisk or fork – great for blending eggs and liquids smoothly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – help you get the right balance of oats, cocoa, and other ingredients.
- Spatula or spoon – for folding in strawberries and chocolate without crushing them.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap strawberries for raspberries or blueberries for a different berry twist with similar tartness.
- Try adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and healthy fats.
- Mix in shredded coconut or a dash of cinnamon for a warm, cozy flavor boost.
- Use white chocolate chips or peanut butter chips instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter variation.
How to Make Chocolate Strawberry Baked Oatmeal
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup brown sugar or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
- Optional: 1 tablespoon melted butter or coconut oil (for richness)
Time You’ll Need:
It takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 35-40 minutes to bake. Let the oatmeal cool a few minutes before serving. In total, expect to spend around 50 minutes making this delicious breakfast treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Dish
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or a similar sized oven-safe dish. This helps the oatmeal from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the oats, cocoa powder, brown sugar (or maple syrup), baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir everything together so it’s evenly blended.
3. Whisk Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter or coconut oil if you’re using it. Make sure the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Combine and Fold In Fruit and Chocolate
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be gentle when folding in most of the sliced strawberries and chocolate chips—save some strawberries for decorating on top.
5. Bake Your Oatmeal
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Arrange the reserved strawberry slices on top, lightly pressing them into the batter, and scatter a few extra chocolate chips if you like.
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the oatmeal is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.
6. Cool, Garnish, and Serve
Take the oatmeal out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with a whole fresh strawberry in the center for a pretty touch. Serve warm on its own or with a splash of milk or a dollop of yogurt if you like.
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! Just thaw and drain them well to avoid extra moisture, which can make the oatmeal too soggy. You might want to reduce the milk slightly to compensate.
How Do I Store Leftover Baked Oatmeal?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven with a splash of milk to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Use a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, set for 5 minutes) and choose plant-based milk and dairy-free chocolate chips.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can mix and assemble the ingredients the night before and refrigerate the baking dish overnight. Simply bake it fresh in the morning for a hot and ready breakfast.