Brownie Baked Oatmeal
Baked oatmeal is a versatile dish that retains its quality throughout the week, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping. Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. Enjoy it chilled directly from the fridge or reheat it using the microwave or oven for a warm and comforting serving.
Ingredients
- Non-stick cooking spray
- 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon espresso powder optional
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened almond milk
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 very ripe medium bananas mashed
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup vegan semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate chips or a 2-ounce vegan chocolate bar chopped, divided
- Flaky sea salt for garnish optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly coat an 8x8-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and set it aside.
- Mash the Bananas
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas thoroughly with a fork until smooth. Aim for approximately one cup of mashed banana.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients
- Add the rolled oats, cocoa powder, chia seeds, espresso powder (if using), baking powder, and kosher salt to the bowl. Mix the dry ingredients with a spatula until well incorporated.
- Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
- Pour in the almond milk, maple syrup, peanut butter, and vanilla extract. Stir the mixture until it is evenly combined. Fold in half of the chocolate chips or chopped chocolate.
- Assemble and Bake
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate on top. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the oatmeal is puffed, set, and edges begin to pull away from the dish.
- Cool and Serve
- Allow the baked oatmeal to cool on the countertop for about 10 minutes. Garnish with flaky sea salt, if desired. Serve warm for a creamy texture, or let it cool further for a firmer consistency that can be easily sliced.