Chocolate Strawberry Baked Oatmeal is a warm and delicious breakfast that combines the comforting texture of baked oats with sweet strawberries and rich chocolate chunks. It’s a simple dish with hearty oats, juicy berries, and gooey chocolate that feels like a treat first thing in the morning.
I love making this when I want something cozy and a little bit special without a lot of fuss. The strawberries add just the right hint of freshness while the chocolate makes every bite a little surprise. Plus, baked oatmeal is so easy to prepare ahead of time, which means mornings are less hectic and more enjoyable.
My favorite way to serve it is warm right out of the oven with a splash of milk or a dollop of yogurt on top. It’s a perfect balance of flavors and makes breakfast feel like a celebration. This recipe is great for sharing with family or friends—they always ask for the recipe because it tastes like dessert but is filling enough to keep you going all morning.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Rolled oats
- Old-fashioned rolled oats work best as they hold their texture while baking. Avoid instant oats—they can get mushy. If gluten-free, pick certified gluten-free rolled oats.
- Cocoa powder
- Unsweetened cocoa adds rich chocolate flavor. Dutch-processed cocoa offers a smoother taste if you prefer. You can also swap for carob powder if avoiding caffeine.
- Sugar
- Granulated sugar is standard, but maple syrup or honey work nicely—just reduce the milk slightly. For a lower-sugar option, use a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit.
- Milk
- Dairy or any plant-based milk like almond, oat, or soy will do. Choose what you like or have on hand. Thicker milks give a creamier bake.
- Strawberries
- Fresh strawberries add bright, juicy sweetness. You can also use frozen berries—just thaw and drain excess juice to avoid excess moisture.
- Chocolate chips
- Milk or dark chocolate chips melt into gooey pockets. If dairy-free, pick vegan chocolate chips or chunks. Chopping a chocolate bar works great too.
How Do You Get the Perfect Texture in Baked Oatmeal?
The key is balancing wet and dry ingredients so it bakes firm but stays soft and moist. Here’s what helps:
- Mix the wet ingredients well before adding to oats to hydrate them evenly.
- Don’t overmix once combined—just stir to combine everything to avoid dense oatmeal.
- Bake until the top is set and a toothpick comes out mostly clean. The center may be slightly soft but will firm up as it cools.
- Let it rest for 5–10 minutes after baking to set fully, then cut with a serrated knife for neat squares.
This careful balance makes the final baked oatmeal tender inside with slightly crisp edges—comforting and satisfying every bite.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 8×8 inch baking dish – perfect size for even baking and easy serving.
- Mixing bowls – one large for oats and dry ingredients, one medium for wet mix.
- Whisk – helps blend eggs, milk, and vanilla smoothly without lumps.
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon – great for folding in strawberries and chocolate gently.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your ratios right for best texture and flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap strawberries for blueberries or raspberries for a different fruity taste and burst of color.
- Add chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds for crunch and extra protein.
- Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of chili powder for a warm or spicy twist.
- Use white chocolate chips or peanut butter chips instead of regular chocolate for a sweeter or nutty flavor.
How to Make Chocolate Strawberry Baked Oatmeal?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or preferred sweetener)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 3/4 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or butter
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chunks (milk or dark chocolate)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to bake. Add a few minutes for cooling before serving. Overall, plan for around 50 minutes from start to enjoying your warm, delicious oatmeal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish so the oatmeal won’t stick.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, cocoa powder, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir them together well so everything is evenly mixed.
3. Prepare Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil or butter until smooth and fully combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredient bowl. Stir gently but thoroughly to mix everything together without overmixing.
5. Add Strawberries and Chocolate:
Fold half of the sliced strawberries and half of the chocolate chips into the oatmeal mixture carefully.
6. Assemble and Bake:
Pour the oatmeal batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Arrange the remaining strawberry slices on top, and sprinkle the leftover chocolate chips over everything.
Bake in your preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until the top looks set and a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean.
7. Cool and Serve:
Let the baked oatmeal cool for a few minutes before serving warm. You can enjoy it as is or add a splash of milk, a spoonful of yogurt, or a drizzle of honey for extra flavor.
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Just thaw them fully and drain any excess liquid before adding to avoid making the oatmeal too watery.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg), and swap butter for coconut oil or vegan margarine.
How Long Will Leftovers Stay Fresh?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven before serving.
Can I Add Other Fruits or Nuts?
Definitely! Blueberries, raspberries, or chopped apples work well. Adding chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds gives a nice crunch and extra nutrition.