As I stood in my kitchen, the familiar aroma of peanut butter enveloped me, reminding me of lazy weekend mornings shared with my family. The ritual of baking something warm and comforting was calling, and I couldn’t resist creating a delightful dish that combines two of my favorite flavors: peanut butter and chocolate. That’s when the idea for Peanut Butter & Chocolate Baked Oats came to life—a simple yet satisfying recipe that turns wholesome ingredients into a delicious breakfast or snack.
Imagine a warm slice of oatmeal bursting with creamy peanut butter, punctuated by a sweet hint of chocolate, making it impossible to resist. Not only is this baked oatmeal easy to whip up, but it’s also versatile enough to adapt to your personal taste. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious breakfast before a busy day or a guilt-free dessert to enjoy with friends, this baked treat ticks all the boxes. Let’s dive into this recipe and transform those pantry staples into your new favorite comfort food!
Why are Peanut Butter & Chocolate Baked Oats irresistible?
Warm, cozy feel: This dish brings back memories of lazy mornings filled with the comforting scents of peanut butter and chocolate.
Effortless preparation: Whipping up these baked oats is a breeze, perfect for any busy schedule.
Customizable delight: Add your choice of fruits or nuts for a personal twist, catering to everyone’s taste preferences.
Nutritious indulgence: Packed with wholesome ingredients, they offer a satisfying blend of flavor and nutrition without guilt.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve them for breakfast or dessert, and watch your family or friends fall in love with this delightful treat!
Peanut Butter & Chocolate Baked Oats Ingredients
• These ingredients come together for a delicious homemade treat!
For the Bake
- Old fashioned oats – a hearty base that provides texture and fiber.
- Oat milk – a creamy alternative to dairy milk, enhancing flavor and moisture.
- Peanut butter – brings a rich, nutty taste; use creamy or crunchy based on your preference.
- Applesauce – adds natural sweetness and moisture, making it healthier.
- Agave or honey – choose agave for a vegan option or honey for a touch of floral sweetness.
- Baking powder – helps the oats rise, creating a fluffy texture.
- Vanilla – adds a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances overall taste.
- Salt – balances sweetness and heightens other flavors present in the dish.
- Protein powder (optional) – boosts nutrition, making these baked oats a more substantial meal.
- Mini chocolate chips – a delightful chocolatey touch; feel free to adjust the amount to your taste!
For the Toppings
- Additional peanut butter – drizzling on top adds a decadent layer of flavor.
- Chocolate square – the perfect finishing touch to melt into your baked oats.
- Extra chocolate chips – a sweet finish that elevates the treat to a dessert-level delight!
Get ready to indulge in the delightful combination of flavors in this Peanut Butter & Chocolate Baked Oats recipe that will surely brighten your mornings!
How to Make Peanut Butter & Chocolate Baked Oats
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking and creates that perfect golden crust on your oats.
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Combine the ingredients in a mixing bowl. Add old fashioned oats, oat milk, 1 Tbs peanut butter, applesauce, agave or honey, baking powder, vanilla, and salt, mixing them well until fully combined.
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Stir until the texture is smooth and creamy. You’ll know it’s ready when the oats are fully coated with the liquid mixture and everything is a beautiful blend.
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Add in the optional protein powder and mini chocolate chips. Fold them into the mixture, making sure they’re evenly distributed for delightful bursts of flavor in every bite.
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Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly so it bakes uniformly, and don’t forget to leave a bit of space for rising!
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Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the top is lightly golden brown. You’ll want to see a slight bounce when you gently touch the surface.
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Top with the remaining peanut butter, a chocolate square, and extra chocolate chips if desired, allowing them to melt into the warm oats for an irresistible finish.
Optional: Garnish with fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter & Chocolate Baked Oats
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a quick breakfast or snack.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in individual containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, pop the baked oats back into the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Enjoy the delightful flavors of your Peanut Butter & Chocolate Baked Oats again!
Labeling: If freezing, be sure to label your containers with the date. This helps you keep track of freshness and makes it easy to grab a quick treat!
Helpful Tricks for Peanut Butter & Chocolate Baked Oats
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Preheat Correctly: Always preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure the baked oats rise evenly and develop a golden crust.
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Combine Well: Take the time to mix your ingredients thoroughly. A smooth, creamy mixture is key to achieving the perfect texture in your Peanut Butter & Chocolate Baked Oats.
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Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your baked oats while they are in the oven. They should be set and slightly golden; overbaking can result in a dry texture.
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Customize Toppings: Don’t be afraid to get creative! Experiment with fresh fruits, nuts, or seeds on top to enhance flavors and add nutrition.
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Cool Before Serving: Allow your baked oats to cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps set the texture and makes slicing easier, resulting in beautifully presented squares.
What to Serve with Peanut Butter & Chocolate Baked Oats?
Transform your cozy dish into a complete meal with these delightful pairings that will satisfy every craving.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or tart raspberries add a refreshing touch that balances the richness of the baked oats.
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Greek Yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt brings protein and tang, enhancing the dish’s flavor and texture. Pairing this adds a cooling contrast to the warm oats!
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Chia Pudding: Nutty or vanilla-flavored chia pudding provides an extra layer of health, complementing the classic peanut butter and chocolate flavors beautifully.
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Almond Milk Latte: Sip on a warm almond milk latte to enhance your morning routine, making it cozy and fulfilling. The nutty flavors meld perfectly with the baked oats.
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Banana Slices: Sweet banana slices add creaminess and a natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the oats, creating a hearty treat.
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Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey over the top amps up sweetness while creating a lovely glaze, perfect alongside your baked oats.
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Spiced Nut Mix: A crunchy mix of spiced nuts adds an intriguing texture contrast that elevates your morning meal. The hints of cinnamon or cayenne can spark delightful surprises.
These pairings not only complement the flavors in your Peanut Butter & Chocolate Baked Oats but also elevate your meal by adding variety and balance!
Make Ahead Options
These Peanut Butter & Chocolate Baked Oats are perfect for busy mornings, allowing you to save precious time during the week! You can prepare the base mixture up to 24 hours ahead; simply combine the oats, oat milk, peanut butter, applesauce, agave, baking powder, vanilla, and salt, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. This helps maintain freshness and prevents the oats from becoming overly mushy. When you’re ready to bake, just pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, bake as directed, and finish with your desired toppings. Enjoy the convenience of a delicious, wholesome breakfast ready in no time, making your mornings as delightful as they are efficient!
Peanut Butter & Chocolate Variations
Feel free to mix things up and make this dish your own with some fun twists!
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Nut-Free: Use sun butter instead of peanut butter for a nut-free alternative that still delivers delicious flavor.
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Protein-Packed: Substitute the standard oats with high-protein rolled oats to amp up the nutrition without changing the texture.
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Fruit-Infused: Add in mashed bananas or sliced strawberries for a burst of natural sweetness and extra moisture; it’s a fruity twist that will brighten your morning.
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Vegan Delight: Replace the honey with maple syrup and ensure the chocolate is dairy-free for a completely vegan-friendly version.
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Spiced Up: Sprinkle in cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic flavor that compliments the chocolate and peanut butter wonderfully.
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Crunchy Texture: Toss in some chopped nuts or seeds for added crunch and healthy fats that make each bite even more satisfying.
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Heat It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of chili powder to introduce a spicy kick and elevate your taste buds!
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Oat Milk Substitution: Swap the oat milk for almond or coconut milk for a different flavor profile that still keeps things creamy and delicious.
Every bite becomes a new adventure, and I can’t wait for you to discover which variation you love best!
Peanut Butter & Chocolate Baked Oats Recipe FAQs
What type of oats should I use for this recipe?
You’ll want to use old fashioned oats for this Peanut Butter & Chocolate Baked Oats recipe. They provide a hearty texture and a perfect balance of chewiness. Avoid instant oats, as they may become too mushy during baking and won’t give you that satisfying bite!
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover baked oats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just pop them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes when you’re ready to enjoy them again. They make for a perfect quick breakfast or snack!
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Can I freeze the baked oats?
Absolutely! For longer storage, freeze your Peanut Butter & Chocolate Baked Oats in individual portions using freezer-safe containers or bags. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat one, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in the microwave or oven.
What should I do if my baked oats are too dry?
If your baked oats turn out too dry, it’s likely that they were overbaked. Keep in mind that ovens can vary, so I recommend checking for doneness a few minutes early. If you’re worried about dryness, you could also try adding an extra splash of oat milk or a dollop of applesauce to the mixture before baking for added moisture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes! This recipe is quite adaptable. For those with nut allergies, you can substitute peanut butter with sun butter or a seed butter of your choice. If you’re looking for a vegan option, use agave instead of honey. Always ensure that any protein powder you add aligns with your dietary needs (some may contain allergens).
How can I enhance the flavor or nutrition of this recipe?
To elevate the nutritional profile, you can add mashed bananas or shredded zucchini into the mixture. These additions not only boost the moisture but also lend their natural sweetness. Feel free to toss in a handful of nuts or seeds for extra crunch, or top the finished dish with fresh fruits, like berries or banana slices, for that delightful burst of flavor!
Peanut Butter & Chocolate Baked Oats for a Cozy Morning Boost
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine the old fashioned oats, oat milk, 1 Tbs peanut butter, applesauce, agave or honey, baking powder, vanilla, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Stir until the texture is smooth and creamy.
- Add in the optional protein powder and mini chocolate chips, folding them into the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the top is lightly golden brown.
- Top with the remaining peanut butter, a chocolate square, and extra chocolate chips, allowing them to melt into the warm oats.
