Brownie Baked Oatmeal

Are you ready to indulge in a delicious breakfast that feels like dessert? Meet Brownie Baked Oatmeal, an irresistible twist on your morning routine that combines the comforting flavors of brownies with the wholesome goodness of oatmeal. Imagine waking up to a warm, chocolatey bowl of goodness that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also fuels your day. This recipe is perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends when you want something special without too much fuss. Let’s dive into the reasons to love it, the ingredients you’ll need, and how to whip it up in no time!

Reasons to Love Brownie Baked Oatmeal

Brownie Baked Oatmeal is more than just a breakfast; it’s a delightful experience. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore it:

• Chocolatey Goodness: Who wouldn’t want chocolate for breakfast? This dish gives you all the brownie flavors without the guilt.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can have a warm, hearty breakfast ready to go.
• Customizable: Whether you want to swap ingredients or adjust the sweetness, this recipe is flexible to fit your taste and dietary needs.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Reheat and relish the goodness!
• Nutritious: Packed with oats and bananas, this baked oatmeal is full of fiber and nutrients, keeping you full and satisfied.

Ingredient Rundown

To create this delightful Brownie Baked Oatmeal, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1/3 cup peanut butter or allergy-friendly substitute (like sunflower seed butter)
• 3 cups mashed banana (for a banana-free version, you can use unsweetened applesauce)
• 1 cup milk of choice or water (dairy or plant-based like almond or oat milk)
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey or agave for sweetness
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract for flavor depth
• 3 cups rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder or chocolate protein powder for that rich chocolate flavor
• 1 teaspoon salt to enhance all the flavors
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional, but recommended for extra indulgence)

Prep & Cook Tools

Before you start, gather these essential tools:

• Mixing bowls: For combining wet and dry ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
• Fork or potato masher: For mashing the bananas smoothly.
• Baking dish: A 9×13 inch or similar size for even baking.
• Spatula: To mix and spread the batter evenly.
• Oven: Preheated to 350°F (175°C).

Brownie Baked Oatmeal Made Stepwise

Follow these simple steps to create your Brownie Baked Oatmeal:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

In a mixing bowl, mash the bananas using a fork or potato masher until they are smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the peanut butter, milk, pure maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir until evenly mixed.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. If using, fold in the chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey treat.

Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is set and slightly firm to the touch.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow the Brownie Baked Oatmeal to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, and enjoy!

Healthier Substitutions

If you’re looking to make this recipe even healthier or to accommodate dietary restrictions, consider these substitutions:

• Peanut Butter: Use almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.
• Bananas: Replace with unsweetened applesauce or pureed pumpkin for a different flavor.
• Milk: Opt for almond milk, oat milk, or any other plant-based milk.
• Sweetener: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener for a low-sugar version.
• Cocoa Powder: Substitute with carob powder for a caffeine-free alternative.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

While making Brownie Baked Oatmeal is straightforward, here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

• Dry Texture: Make sure not to overbake. Keep an eye on it and test for doneness at the 25-minute mark.
• Too Much Sweetness: Adjust the amount of maple syrup based on the sweetness of your bananas. Taste the mixture before baking.
• Sticking to the Pan: Grease your baking dish well or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
• Lumpy Batter: Make sure to mash the bananas thoroughly to avoid lumps in your mixture.

Save It for Later

Brownie Baked Oatmeal is perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to save it for later:

Once cooled, cut the baked oatmeal into squares and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick breakfast or snack. Alternatively, freeze the squares in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!

Brownie Baked Oatmeal Q&A

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Use plant-based milk, maple syrup, and a nut or seed butter to keep it fully vegan. The mashed bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture.

What can I use instead of rolled oats?

You can substitute rolled oats with quick oats, but the texture will be slightly different. If you need a gluten-free option, ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Definitely! Feel free to add nuts, dried fruits, or seeds to customize your Brownie Baked Oatmeal to your liking. Just keep in mind that this might slightly alter the texture.

Is it possible to make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Then, just bake it in the morning for a quick and delicious breakfast!

That’s a Wrap

Brownie Baked Oatmeal is a delightful way to start your day, offering all the flavors of a rich brownie while providing you with a hearty, nutritious meal. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your breakfast rotation. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or as a meal prep option throughout the week, each bite is a celebration of chocolatey goodness. So go ahead, treat yourself to a breakfast that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Your mornings will never be the same again!

Brownie Baked Oatmeal

This Brownie Baked Oatmeal is a chocolate lover's dream! Enjoy a nutritious breakfast that feels like dessert.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Brownie Baked Oatmeal:

• 1/3 cup peanut butter or allergy-friendly substitute (like sunflower seed butter)
• 3 cups mashed banana (for a banana-free version, use unsweetened applesauce)
• 1 cup milk of choice or water (dairy or plant-based like almond or oat milk)
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup or honey or agave for sweetness
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract for flavor depth
• 3 cups rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder or chocolate protein powder
• 1 teaspoon salt to enhance all the flavors
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional, but recommended for extra indulgence)

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Fork or potato masher
• Baking dish
• Spatula
• Oven

Method

 

Instructions:

1. Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
2. Step 2: Mash the Bananas

   In a mixing bowl, mash the bananas using a fork or potato masher until they are smooth and creamy.
3. Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

   Add the peanut butter, milk, pure maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

   In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, cocoa powder, and salt. Stir until evenly mixed.
5. Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

   Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. If using, fold in the chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey treat.
6. Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish

   Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
7. Step 7: Bake

   Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is set and slightly firm to the touch.
8. Step 8: Cool and Serve

   Allow the Brownie Baked Oatmeal to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, and enjoy!

Notes

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick breakfast or snack.
• Freeze squares for up to three months; thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.