Strawberry Banana Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal: A Delicious and Healthy Breakfast Recipe

Baked oatmeal is a fantastic way to start your day or enjoy a comforting brunch. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for meal prepping. This Strawberry Banana Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal recipe combines the goodness of oats with the sweetness of strawberries and bananas, plus a touch of chocolate chips for that extra indulgence. It’s a crowd-pleaser and a guilt-free treat that the whole family will love. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Healthy and Nutritious:** Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, this baked oatmeal is a wholesome breakfast option.
* **Easy to Make:** With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s perfect for busy mornings.
* **Customizable:** You can easily adapt the recipe to your liking by swapping out fruits, adding nuts, or using different types of chocolate chips.
* **Meal Prep Friendly:** Baked oatmeal can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
* **Delicious Flavor:** The combination of strawberries, bananas, and chocolate chips creates a delightful flavor that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

* 3 cups rolled oats (not instant)
* 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
* 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey)
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 2 ripe bananas, mashed
* 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
* 1/2 cup chocolate chips (dark, milk, or semi-sweet)
* Optional toppings: sliced bananas, sliced strawberries, extra chocolate chips, chopped nuts, drizzle of maple syrup

Equipment

* 9×13 inch baking dish
* Large mixing bowl
* Whisk
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This will prevent the oatmeal from sticking to the dish and make it easier to serve.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: rolled oats, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisk them together until they are well combined. This ensures that the baking powder and cinnamon are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In the same mixing bowl, add the wet ingredients: milk, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Make sure there are no lumps of egg yolk remaining.

Step 4: Add the Mashed Bananas

Add the mashed bananas to the wet ingredients. Use a fork to mash the bananas until they are smooth and creamy. Stir the mashed bananas into the wet ingredients until they are fully incorporated. This will give the baked oatmeal a moist and sweet flavor.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together until they are just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough baked oatmeal. You want the oats to be evenly coated with the wet mixture.

Step 6: Add Strawberries and Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the diced strawberries and chocolate chips into the oatmeal mixture. Distribute them evenly throughout the mixture. Reserve a few strawberries and chocolate chips for topping, if desired.

Step 7: Pour into Baking Dish

Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly to ensure that it cooks uniformly.

Step 8: Add Toppings (Optional)

If desired, top the oatmeal with extra sliced bananas, sliced strawberries, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts. You can also drizzle a little maple syrup over the top for added sweetness.

Step 9: Bake in the Oven

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the oatmeal is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Step 10: Let Cool and Serve

Remove the baked oatmeal from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the oatmeal to set properly and makes it easier to cut.

Tips and Variations

* **Use Ripe Bananas:** Ripe bananas are sweeter and easier to mash, which will enhance the flavor and texture of the baked oatmeal.
* **Adjust Sweetness:** If you prefer a less sweet baked oatmeal, reduce the amount of maple syrup or honey. You can also use a sugar-free sweetener.
* **Add Nuts and Seeds:** For added crunch and nutrition, add chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds. You can also add seeds like chia seeds, flax seeds, or sunflower seeds.
* **Use Different Fruits:** Feel free to swap out the strawberries and bananas for other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, apples, or peaches.
* **Make it Vegan:** To make this recipe vegan, use a plant-based milk (like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk) and replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg).
* **Add Protein Powder:** For a protein boost, add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the wet ingredients. This will help keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer.
* **Experiment with Spices:** Try adding different spices like nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger for a unique flavor twist.
* **Chocolate Variety:** Use white chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, or even chopped up pieces of your favorite chocolate bar.
* **Add a Crumble Topping:** Mix together some oats, flour, brown sugar, and butter for a delicious crumble topping. Sprinkle it over the oatmeal before baking.

Serving Suggestions

* **Serve Warm:** Baked oatmeal is best served warm. You can enjoy it as is or with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of maple syrup.
* **Add a Splash of Milk:** For a creamier texture, add a splash of milk or cream to your serving of baked oatmeal.
* **Pair with Coffee or Tea:** Baked oatmeal is a perfect accompaniment to a cup of coffee or tea.
* **Enjoy as Dessert:** You can also enjoy baked oatmeal as a healthy dessert option.

Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerator:** Store leftover baked oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
* **Freezer:** To freeze baked oatmeal, cut it into individual portions and wrap each portion in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Information (approximate)

* Calories: Approximately 300-350 per serving (depending on toppings and variations)
* Protein: 8-10 grams
* Fiber: 5-7 grams
* Fat: 10-12 grams
* Carbohydrates: 45-50 grams

This recipe is a guideline and can be adjusted based on specific ingredient choices and serving sizes. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the exact ingredients you used.

Recipe Card

**Recipe Name:** Strawberry Banana Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal

**Prep Time:** 15 minutes

**Cook Time:** 30-35 minutes

**Total Time:** 45-50 minutes

**Yield:** 6-8 servings

**Ingredients:**

* 3 cups rolled oats (not instant)
* 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
* 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey)
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 2 ripe bananas, mashed
* 1 cup fresh strawberries, diced
* 1/2 cup chocolate chips (dark, milk, or semi-sweet)
* Optional toppings: sliced bananas, sliced strawberries, extra chocolate chips, chopped nuts, drizzle of maple syrup

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together rolled oats, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In the same bowl, add milk, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Stir in mashed bananas until well combined.
5. Pour wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold until just combined.
6. Fold in diced strawberries and chocolate chips, reserving some for topping if desired.
7. Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
8. Top with extra sliced bananas, strawberries, and chocolate chips if desired.
9. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
10. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

**Enjoy your delicious and healthy Strawberry Banana Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal!**

Conclusion

This Strawberry Banana Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal recipe is a delightful and nutritious way to start your day. It’s easy to customize, perfect for meal prepping, and sure to be a hit with the whole family. Give it a try and enjoy the goodness of oats, fruits, and chocolate chips in every bite. Happy baking!

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