Indulge your taste buds with a delightful twist on breakfast that will have you craving more! Our Dark Chocolate Cherry Baked Oatmeal is not just a meal; it's a decadent experience that combines the rich flavors of dark chocolate with the sweet tartness of cherries. Perfect for a cozy weekend brunch or a make-ahead weekday breakfast, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious. With just 10 minutes of prep time and a heavenly aroma wafting through your kitchen, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try this recipe sooner. Get ready to elevate your mornings with a warm, comforting bowl of baked oatmeal that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 cups almond milk
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 cup pitted cherries, chopped
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x9 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Whisk these wet ingredients until they are thoroughly blended.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Gently fold in the chopped cherries and dark chocolate chips, reserving a small handful for topping.
- Transfer the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips and cherries on top of the oatmeal for additional visual appeal and flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oatmeal is set.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the oatmeal to set and makes it easier to portion.
- Serve warm, optionally topped with additional maple syrup, fresh cherries, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Tips
- Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to swap out the cherries for your favorite fruit, like blueberries or raspberries, to create your own unique flavor combination.
- Use Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality dark chocolate chips to enhance the flavor of your baked oatmeal. The better the chocolate, the richer the taste!
- Make It Ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it the night before and simply pop it in the oven in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.
- Add Extra Toppings: For an extra indulgent treat, serve your baked oatmeal with a drizzle of almond butter, a sprinkle of nuts, or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your oatmeal while it bakes. It should be golden brown on top and set in the center; a toothpick inserted should come out clean.
- Store Leftovers Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for a quick breakfast!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 0mg
