Brownie Baked Oats
Brownie Baked Oats are what happen when comfort food and everyday nutrition meet in the best possible way. This recipe delivers the rich, chocolatey flavor of a brownie with the wholesome goodness of oats, making it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a healthier dessert. The texture is soft and fudgy in the center with slightly set edges, just like a baked brownie, but without the heaviness. It is easy to make, flexible with ingredients, and works just as well for meal prep as it does for a cozy weekend treat. Whether you enjoy it warm straight from the oven or chilled the next day, this baked oats recipe is simple, satisfying, and feels indulgent without being over the top.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Bake time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 2 to 3
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
Rolled oats: 1 cup (90 g)
Cocoa powder: 2 tablespoons
Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
Wet Ingredients
Milk (dairy or plant-based): 1 cup (240 ml)
Sweetener: 2 to 3 tablespoons maple syrup or honey, or 1 ripe banana, mashed
Egg: 1 large (optional, omit for vegan)
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Peanut butter: 2 tablespoons (or coconut oil or applesauce)
Toppings and Mix-ins
Chocolate chips: 2 to 3 tablespoons
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and lightly grease a small baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
Add rolled oats to a blender and blend until they reach a flour-like consistency for a smoother brownie texture.
Transfer the oat flour to a mixing bowl and whisk in cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, combine milk, sweetener, egg if using, vanilla extract, and peanut butter. Mix until smooth.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until fully combined.
Fold in most of the chocolate chips, reserving a few for the top.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the surface evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips on top.
Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, until the center is just set but still slightly soft.
Let cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving for the best texture.
Tips
Blending the oats creates a fudgier, more brownie-like texture.
For a more cake-like result, do not overbake.
Use natural cocoa powder for classic brownie flavor.
Stir the batter gently to avoid making it dense.
Adjust sweetness depending on cocoa intensity and toppings.
Let it rest before slicing to help it firm up.
Use a smaller dish for thicker, fudgier baked oats.
Cover loosely if the top browns too quickly.
Warm leftovers slightly before eating for best taste.
Serve with yogurt or fresh fruit for balance.
Variations
Make it vegan by skipping the egg and using plant-based milk.
Add chopped nuts for crunch.
Swirl in extra peanut butter on top before baking.
Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
Add espresso powder to deepen the chocolate taste.
Replace peanut butter with almond or cashew butter.
Add shredded zucchini for moisture and fiber.
Use applesauce instead of nut butter for lower fat.
Sprinkle sea salt on top for a sweet-salty contrast.
Bake in ramekins for individual portions.
Q&A
Can I make this without a blender?
Yes, you can use quick oats, though the texture will be less smooth.
Is this suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze baked oats?
Yes, slice and freeze, then reheat as needed.
How do I know it is done?
The center should be set but slightly soft when pressed.
Can I make it sugar-free?
You can use mashed banana or a sugar-free sweetener.
Is this healthy for breakfast?
Yes, it provides fiber, energy, and sustained fullness.
Can I add protein powder?
Yes, replace 2 tablespoons of oats with protein powder.
Why is my baked oats dry?
It was likely overbaked or lacked enough fat or liquid.
Can kids eat this?
Yes, it is a kid-friendly and naturally sweet option.
What toppings work best?
Greek yogurt, berries, nut butter, or a drizzle of milk.
Nutrition
(Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 320
Protein: 11 g
Fat: 12 g
Carbohydrates: 42 g
Fiber: 6 g
Conclusion
Brownie Baked Oats are a great example of how simple ingredients can create something both comforting and nourishing. They are easy to customize, quick to prepare, and satisfying enough to replace traditional desserts or sugary breakfasts. Whether you enjoy them warm with melting chocolate chips or chilled straight from the fridge, this recipe offers flexibility without sacrificing flavor. Once you try it, it is likely to become a regular part of your weekly routine, especially when you want something chocolatey that still feels balanced.