Chocolate Strawberry Baked Oatmeal
Chocolate Strawberry Baked Oatmeal is a warm, cozy breakfast treat that combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the rich, comforting taste of chocolate. It's made with hearty oats that…
Tip: save now, cook later.Chocolate Strawberry Baked Oatmeal is a warm, cozy breakfast treat that combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the rich, comforting taste of chocolate. It’s made with hearty oats that get soft and slightly chewy as they bake, creating a perfect texture that feels both filling and delicious. This dish feels like a little morning hug, especially on chilly days.
I love making this baked oatmeal the night before because it gives the flavors a chance to blend, and then all I have to do is pop it in the oven in the morning. The chocolate melts just enough to be gooey but not messy, and the berries add a bright, fresh pop that balances everything beautifully. It’s one of those breakfasts that feels special but is surprisingly easy to prepare, which is a win in my book.
My favorite way to serve it is warm with a splash of cold milk or a dollop of yogurt on top. It’s a great way to start the day or a cozy afternoon snack. Plus, it makes fantastic leftovers, so you get to enjoy it again without any extra work. Honestly, it’s a simple comfort food that feels like a little celebration every time I eat it.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Old-fashioned oats work best here because they hold their shape when baked. Quick oats are softer and can become mushy, so I avoid them. For gluten-free eating, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa gives a rich chocolate flavor without extra sugar. If you want a milder chocolate taste, you could reduce the amount or use a chocolate protein powder instead.
Sweetener: Brown sugar adds a deep, warm sweetness, but maple syrup or honey are great natural swaps. Just reduce liquid elsewhere slightly if using syrup to keep the texture right.
Milk: Any milk works—dairy, almond, oat, or soy. I recommend unsweetened plant milk to control sweetness and keep it light.
Fresh Strawberries: Fresh berries give a juicy, tart contrast to the chocolate. If strawberries aren’t in season, you can substitute raspberries or chopped frozen berries—just add frozen berries directly to the batter.
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chips are my favorite for balance, but you can use dark or milk chocolate chips based on taste. For dairy-free options, find vegan chocolate chips.
How Do You Get the Perfect Texture in Baked Oatmeal?
Getting the baked oatmeal just right means balancing softness with a slight crust on top. Here are my tips:
- Mix wet and dry well: Make sure oats absorb the milk and eggs by stirring thoroughly before baking. This prevents dry spots.
- Avoid overbaking: Bake until just set and slightly crusty on top, about 35-40 minutes. Overbaking can dry it out.
- Let it cool a bit: Allow 5-10 minutes after baking. This helps it firm up, making it easier to slice and serve.
- Distribute fruit evenly: Folding most berries into the mix and saving some for the top ensures you get bursts of fresh strawberry flavor in every bite.
- Use eggs: Eggs help bind everything together and create a custard-like texture. Don’t skip them!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 8×8-inch baking dish – perfect size for even baking and easy serving.
- Mixing bowls – one large for dry ingredients and one for wet ingredients; keeps mixing organized.
- Whisk – helps blend the eggs, milk, and vanilla smoothly with dry ingredients.
- Rubber spatula – great for folding in strawberries and chocolate chips without crushing them.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your ingredient amounts just right for balanced flavor and texture.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap strawberries for raspberries or blueberries for a different fruity twist with a bit of tartness.
- Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch and extra protein.
- Use white chocolate chips in place of dark for a sweeter, creamier flavor.
- Stir in a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to deepen the chocolate notes and add warmth.
How to Make Chocolate Strawberry Baked Oatmeal?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup brown sugar or maple syrup
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp melted coconut oil or butter (optional)
Fruit and Chocolate:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced (plus more for topping)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (plus more for topping)
Time You’ll Need:
Preparation takes about 10-15 minutes, and baking time is 35-40 minutes. Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. So, overall expect around 50 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Ready:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This keeps your oatmeal from sticking and helps it bake evenly.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the oats, cocoa powder, brown sugar or maple syrup, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if you’re using it). This creates the flavorful base.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk the milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil or butter if you like a richer texture. Whisk until everything is combined smoothly.
4. Combine & Fold In Fruit and Chocolate:
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix well. Then gently fold in most of the sliced strawberries and chocolate chips, reserving some for topping later. This keeps the fruit and chocolate evenly spread.
5. Bake:
Pour the oatmeal batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the reserved strawberries and chocolate chips on top. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the oatmeal is set and the top looks slightly crusty and firm.
6. Cool and Serve:
Remove from the oven and let the oatmeal cool for a few minutes. This helps it set and makes it easier to serve. For a special touch, drizzle melted chocolate on top before serving. Enjoy warm with a splash of milk or a spoonful of yogurt if you’d like.
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes! You can use frozen strawberries directly from the freezer—just fold them in gently. Keep in mind they may release more moisture, so the oatmeal might be a bit softer.
Can I Make This Baked Oatmeal Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the mixture the night before, cover it, and bake in the morning. You can also bake it fully, then store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover baked oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also freeze portions for longer storage.
Can I Substitute Milk or Eggs?
Yes, use any dairy or plant-based milk you prefer. For eggs, consider flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) as a vegan alternative, but texture may be slightly different.