Name: Chocolate Banana Baked Oatmeal Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 bananas, mashed; 1/4 cup cashew butter; 1 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk; 1/4 cup pure maple syrup; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups rolled oats; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 cup chocolate chips

Jump to Recipe· 4.5 from 5 reviews

If you’re anything like me, you adore breakfast recipes that feel indulgent but are secretly wholesome—and this Chocolate Banana Baked Oatmeal Recipe is exactly that kind of treat. Imagine waking up to warm, cozy baked oatmeal that’s packed with rich chocolate flavor and natural sweetness from ripe bananas. It’s the perfect way to start your day on a delicious, healthy note. Trust me, once you make this, weekend brunches will never be the same!

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Why This Recipe Works

Simple Ingredients: You probably already have all of these in your pantry and fridge, making it super convenient.
Naturally Sweetened: Ripe bananas and pure maple syrup add just the right amount of sweetness without refined sugar.
Perfectly Moist Texture: Cashew butter combined with almond milk keeps the oatmeal creamy, so it’s never dry or crumbly.
Chocolatey Goodness: Cocoa powder and chocolate chips create little pockets of melty, rich chocolate joy throughout.

Chocolate Banana Baked Oatmeal, healthy baked oatmeal recipes, easy breakfast ideas with bananas, chocolate breakfast dishes, wholesome breakfast recipes - The image shows an oval-shaped white dish filled with a thick, dark brown chocolate oat mixture. The texture is chunky with visible oats mixed in a glossy chocolate sauce. Scattered on top are small, dark chocolate chips that add a slightly raised detail. The dish sits on a white marbled surface, highlighting the rich color of the mixture inside. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

This Chocolate Banana Baked Oatmeal Recipe blends simple, nutritious ingredients that work in harmony—providing fiber, protein, and natural sweetness while satisfying your chocolate cravings. When shopping, I recommend grabbing the ripest bananas you can find for extra flavor and sweetness.

Bananas: The riper, the better! They add moisture and natural sweetness, making the dish taste indulgent without extra sugar.
Cashew Butter: Creamy and mildly nutty, it keeps the oatmeal moist and adds a subtle richness that’s hard to beat.
Unsweetened Almond Milk: Keeps it dairy-free but creamy, so everyone can enjoy this recipe.
Pure Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that adds depth; I always use 100% pure—not maple-flavored syrup.
Vanilla Extract: Just a splash enhances the chocolate and banana flavors remarkably.
Rolled Oats: The base for baked oatmeal—they soak up the moisture just right and create that comforting texture.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Adds rich chocolate flavor without overpowering the natural banana sweetness.
Baking Powder: Helps the oatmeal rise and become fluffy rather than dense.
Salt: A pinch to balance the sweetness and amplify the chocolate notes.
Chocolate Chips: Optional but highly recommended for those melty, gooey chocolate pockets that make your heart happy.

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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the things I love about this Chocolate Banana Baked Oatmeal Recipe is how easy it is to personalize. Whether you want to throw in some nuts for crunch, swap nut butter types, or try it with different milk, it’s all about making it yours.

Variation: I once swapped cashew butter for almond butter, which gave it a slightly earthier flavor—just as delicious! You could even use sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.
Dietary Changes: If you want it less sweet, reduce the maple syrup by a tablespoon. Or add a pinch of cinnamon and chili powder for a mocha twist I’ve experimented with.
Seasonal Touch: In winter, topping it with toasted coconut or a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce really elevates this humble baked oatmeal.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Chocolate Banana Baked Oatmeal Recipe

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

I always start by setting my oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, I grease or line a baking dish to prevent sticking—this little step saves major clean-up later! Make sure your dish is around 8×8 inches or similar so the oatmeal layer isn’t too thick.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, I mash the ripe bananas thoroughly (sometimes I leave a few small lumps for texture). Then, I add the cashew butter, almond milk, pure maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Give it a good stir until everything looks smooth and blended. It should smell slightly sweet and nutty—a sign you’re on the right track!

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

Next up, toss in the rolled oats, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. I prefer folding them gently to avoid beating out the air that helps with fluffiness. Once combined, the mixture will thicken up and start resembling thick cookie dough.

Step 4: Stir in Chocolate Chips & Bake

Finally, stir in the chocolate chips. I usually reserve a few to sprinkle on top for extra melty goodness. Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Pop it in the oven for 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges turn firm and a toothpick poked in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 5: Cool & Serve

Once out of the oven, let it cool for at least 10 minutes—this helps the baked oatmeal set, making it easier to cut into neat squares. Then slice it up, serve warm, and watch everyone’s faces light up with joy. I love savoring mine with an extra drizzle of almond butter or a dollop of yogurt.

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Tips from My Kitchen

Use Very Ripe Bananas: The natural sugars in ripe bananas make a huge difference in sweetness and moisture.
Don’t Overmix Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in oats and cocoa powder to keep your baked oatmeal light, not dense.
Check Oven Temperature: I recommend using an oven thermometer; some ovens run hot and can quickly dry out your baked oatmeal.
Let It Cool Before Cutting: Patience here pays off with cleaner slices and better texture.

How to Serve Chocolate Banana Baked Oatmeal Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping my baked oatmeal with a sprinkle of chopped toasted walnuts or pecans for crunch and a little extra flavor. A spoonful of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of nut butter is also fantastic and adds creaminess. Sometimes, especially on chilly mornings, a dusting of cinnamon or a few fresh berries on top brightens the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pairing this with a simple side of fresh fruit, like orange slices or mixed berries, balances the richness of the chocolate and bananas. A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea complements the baked oatmeal perfectly, especially if you want a mindful, satisfying morning routine.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this baked oatmeal in individual ramekins and topped each with a swirl of whipped cream and a single chocolate-covered banana slice. It looks fancy, tastes heavenly, and everyone feels like they’re indulging in a dessert for breakfast. Another fun idea is layering it in parfait glasses with alternating yogurt and fresh fruit for a beautiful brunch centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftover squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay good for about 3 to 4 days, which is perfect if you want easy grab-and-go breakfasts during busy mornings. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully! After cutting into squares, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap or parchment, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They last up to 3 months. When I’m short on time, I pull one out the night before and pop it in the fridge to thaw.

Reheating

Reheating is simple: I usually microwave a piece for 30 to 40 seconds or warm it in a toaster oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to bring back a bit of crispiness around the edges. Adding a little nut butter or yogurt on top after warming makes the experience feel extra special, like a fresh-baked morning treat.

FAQs

Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats for this recipe?

Great question! I’ve tried using instant oats before, but they tend to make the baked oatmeal too mushy and less structured. Rolled oats give the perfect chew and texture here, so I recommend sticking with those for the best results.
Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be! Just be sure to use certified gluten-free rolled oats, as regular oats might have cross-contamination. Other ingredients like cocoa powder and maple syrup are naturally gluten-free, so it’s easy to make this safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Can I substitute the cashew butter with something else?

Absolutely! Almond butter, peanut butter, or sunflower seed butter all work well. Each brings a slightly different flavor profile, so I encourage experimenting to find what you like best. Just make sure your substitute is creamy for that moist texture.
How ripe should the bananas be?

For maximum sweetness and softness, go for bananas with lots of brown spots—maybe even a little overripe. This helps dissolve the banana fibers into the oatmeal and naturally sweetens the dish without needing heaps of added sugar.
Can I make this Chocolate Banana Baked Oatmeal Recipe vegan?

This recipe is already vegan as long as you use plant-based milk, like almond milk, and ensure your chocolate chips don’t contain dairy. I always check the label to be sure, especially with chocolate chips and vanilla extract.

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Banana Baked Oatmeal Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it blends the cozy comfort of baked oatmeal with the irresistibly rich taste of chocolate and bananas. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel good about what you’re eating, while still feeling like a bit of a treat. I hope you’ll give it a try and discover how easy it is to whip up a breakfast that feels both nourishing and indulgent. Once you do, it might just become your new favorite morning ritual!