Chocolate Strawberry Baked Oats

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Baked Oats
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 2 cups milk (or dairy-free alternative); 2 tablespoons cocoa powder; 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey); 1 ripe banana, mashed; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped; Optional toppings: sliced almonds, additional strawberries, or yogurt

Highlighted under: Fresh Baking Recipes

I absolutely love starting my day with a warm, nourishing bowl of Chocolate Strawberry Baked Oats. There’s something magical about the combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries that makes each bite a delightful treat. Preparing this recipe is a breeze, and it's packed with wholesome ingredients that fuel my mornings. Not only is it a delicious way to enjoy oats, but the smell wafting through my kitchen as it bakes is pure bliss. I promise, this is a breakfast you’ll look forward to all week!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-23T22:21:28.291Z

When I first attempted this recipe, I was blown away by how simple it was to create a dessert-like breakfast. Using ripe strawberries adds a refreshing twist that pairs perfectly with the rich aroma of cocoa. My secret is to let the oats soak for a few minutes before baking, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. And trust me, it makes a world of difference in texture!

After trying various toppings, I've found that a drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of almonds brings out the best in these oats. Each bite has a harmonious blend of sweet and nutty flavors. It's a heavenly way to start the day or enjoy as a rejuvenating afternoon snack!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent chocolate flavor combined with juicy strawberries
Healthy and filling breakfast that keeps you energized
Customizable with your favorite fruits and toppings

Elevating Flavors with Chocolate and Strawberries

The rich cocoa powder in this recipe acts as a deep flavor base, transforming the humble oats into a decadent treat. It pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of the mashed banana and maple syrup, which not only sweetens the dish but also adds moisture. This combination creates a luscious texture, ensuring each bite is both satisfying and indulgent. Be mindful of the cocoa powder you choose; a high-quality cocoa will boast a deeper flavor that elevates the entire dish.

Fresh strawberries are not just a topping; they are integral to the flavor profile. Their juicy freshness contrasts with the rich chocolate, creating a delightful harmony in your bowl. I recommend choosing ripe, sweet strawberries, as they will enhance the overall flavor. If strawberries are out of season, feel free to use frozen ones—just make sure to thaw and drain them beforehand to prevent excess moisture.

Perfecting the Baking Process

Baking your oats creates a unique texture that can't be achieved with traditional oatmeal cooking methods. The goal is to have a firm but tender texture with a slightly crispy top. When you bake for 25 minutes at 350°F (175°C), you'll see the edges start to turn golden, which is a sign that your baked oats are on track. To test for doneness, insert a fork in the center; it should come out clean without any wet batter clinging to it.

If you find that the top isn't developing the desired crispness, you can broil it for a couple of minutes at the end—this gives that beautiful golden crust. Just keep a watchful eye to prevent burning! For those who prefer a softer top, simply omit the broiling step.

Customizing Your Baked Oats

One of the best things about this baked oats recipe is its versatility. You can easily switch up the fruits to use what’s in season or what you have on hand. Try adding blueberries, raspberries, or even diced apples for a change. When substituting fruits, ensure they have a similar moisture content to maintain the right texture. If you opt for dryer fruits, such as raisins, consider adding a bit more milk to compensate.

For those with dietary restrictions, feel free to replace the milk with any non-dairy alternative that you love. Almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk work particularly well here. If you're looking to reduce sugar, you can cut back on the maple syrup and let the bananas and strawberries offer their natural sweetness. Another great tip is to add a scoop of protein powder to boost the nutritional value without altering the flavor significantly.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Chocolate Strawberry Baked Oats:

Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats
2 cups milk (or dairy-free alternative)
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey)
1 ripe banana, mashed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
Optional toppings: sliced almonds, additional strawberries, or yogurt

With these ingredients ready, you're all set to make this delightful dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your Chocolate Strawberry Baked Oats:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get started on your baked oats.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

Add Wet Ingredients

Stir in the milk, mashed banana, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined.

Fold in the Strawberries

Gently fold in the chopped strawberries, reserving a few for topping if desired.

Transfer to Baking Dish

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

Bake

Bake for 25 minutes, or until the oats are set and the top is slightly crispy.

Serve and Enjoy

Allow to cool slightly before serving. Top with almond slices and more strawberries, if you like!

Now you can enjoy your delicious Chocolate Strawberry Baked Oats!

Pro Tips

For added sweetness, feel free to mix in a handful of chocolate chips before baking. You can also substitute any seasonal fruit you have on hand for a twist on flavor!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Strawberry Baked Oats make for fantastic meal prep. You can prepare the mixture the night before and simply pop it in the oven in the morning for a warm breakfast ready in just 25 minutes. If you prefer to bake ahead, store the cooled oats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds, and you’ll have a quick breakfast that’s just as delicious as fresh.

If you want to store longer, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers, and they should last for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm in the microwave or oven. This way, you'll always have a wholesome breakfast ready to go, even on the busiest mornings.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful breakfast experience, serve your baked oats warm, topped with additional strawberries and a drizzle of maple syrup or honey. A dollop of yogurt adds a creamy finish while boosting protein content. If you’re feeling indulgent, consider adding a sprinkle of dark chocolate chips or a spoonful of nut butter for an extra layer of flavor and richness.

You can also serve these baked oats as a brunch option. Pair with a side of scrambled eggs or a smoothie for a complete, satisfying meal. Guests will appreciate the warm, fragrant oats, and you can easily scale the recipe to serve multiple people without a hassle—it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it in the morning!

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Absolutely! Frozen strawberries will work just as well. Just be sure to thaw and chop them before adding.

→ Is it possible to make this vegan?

Yes! Simply use a plant-based milk and substitute the maple syrup for a vegan sweetener.

→ What can I substitute for oats?

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free rolled oats or even quinoa.