These Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal Cups are an easy and delicious way to start your day! They’re a perfect combination of chewy oats and rich chocolate chips, offering a satisfying and healthy breakfast or snack option. The best part? You can prep them ahead of time, making mornings a breeze!
Packed with fiber and healthy fats, these oatmeal cups are not only delicious but also keep you full and energized throughout the day. Customize them by adding your favorite mix-ins, like nuts, raisins, or even coconut flakes. Whether you enjoy them warm or cold, they’re a hit with the whole family!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 1/2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
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1/4 cup brown sugar
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1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
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2 large eggs
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/4 cup melted coconut oil or butter
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1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
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1/2 cup raisins (optional)
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1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a muffin tin with paper liners.
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In a large bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
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In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, vanilla, and melted coconut oil (or butter).
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Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
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Gently fold in chocolate chips, raisins, and nuts (if using).
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Divide the oatmeal mixture evenly between 12 muffin cups.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Allow to cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes Kcal: 190 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
Health Benefits of Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal Cups
One of the primary advantages of these oatmeal cups is the use of oats. Oats are an excellent source of soluble fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which has been shown to reduce cholesterol levels, stabilize blood sugar, and promote heart health. In addition to fiber, oats are rich in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress in the body.
Using ingredients like ground flaxseed and almond butter adds a nutritional punch, enhancing the overall health benefits. Flaxseeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and reduce inflammation. They also contribute to digestive health by improving bowel regularity. Almond butter not only adds flavor and richness to the cups but also provides healthy fats and protein, which contribute to longer-lasting energy and satiety.
Furthermore, by replacing traditional butter with applesauce and using pure maple syrup as a sweetener, the recipe keeps the cups relatively low in refined sugars and fats. This makes them a great option for those looking to enjoy a guilt-free treat without sacrificing flavor. The combination of moist oats, the slight sweetness of maple syrup, and the richness of almond butter gives these oatmeal cups a more complex and satisfying taste.
Versatility and Customization
The Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal Cups are a wonderfully flexible recipe, allowing for numerous variations to cater to different dietary needs and preferences. For example, those who prefer a nut-free version can simply omit the almond butter or substitute it with a seed butter such as sunflower seed butter. You can also use other types of nut butters like peanut butter or cashew butter, which will alter the flavor profile slightly but still provide the necessary fats and protein.
Additionally, for those following a dairy-free or vegan diet, it’s easy to swap in dairy-free milk and chocolate chips, ensuring the recipe remains fully plant-based. For even more customization, feel free to add other mix-ins like dried fruit, seeds, or additional spices such as nutmeg or cloves to suit your tastes.
If you’re someone who loves a bit of extra texture, incorporating chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts can enhance the bite of these oatmeal cups. They can also add a satisfying crunch and additional healthy fats.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal Cups
Making Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal Cups is straightforward. Start by gathering all the ingredients: rolled oats, almond butter, milk, eggs, maple syrup, and of course, mini chocolate chips. In one bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients—milk, eggs, maple syrup, and almond butter—until smooth. Then, mix in the dry ingredients such as oats, ground flaxseed, baking powder, and cinnamon. Stir it all together until fully combined and fold in the chocolate chips.
While the batter will look a little liquidy, this is normal. Spoon the mixture evenly into a muffin tin, making sure to fill each cup to the top. The cups will bake in a preheated oven for about 30 minutes, becoming golden and set with slightly chewy tops. Once baked, allow the oatmeal cups to cool for a few minutes before enjoying them fresh from the oven or storing them for later.
Storing and Reheating Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal Cups
One of the best features of these oatmeal cups is their ability to be stored and enjoyed throughout the week. After cooling, simply cover the cups tightly and refrigerate them for up to a week. They’re great for a quick breakfast on busy mornings and can be eaten cold or reheated in the microwave for a few seconds. If you’re someone who likes a warm breakfast, simply pop them in the oven for a few minutes to heat them through.
For longer storage, these oatmeal cups freeze beautifully. After baking and cooling, wrap each cup individually and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat them, simply thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature and reheat as desired. The cups retain their moist and chewy texture even after freezing, making them an excellent choice for meal prep.
Why These Oatmeal Cups Are a Family Favorite
These Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal Cups are not only healthy but also incredibly delicious, making them a family favorite. Kids love them because they taste like a treat, thanks to the chocolate chips, while adults appreciate the nutritional benefits and the convenience of having a prepared breakfast or snack. The balance of sweet and savory in these oatmeal cups, combined with their chewy texture, makes them a hit with everyone.
Whether you’re looking for an easy breakfast, a portable snack, or even a healthier dessert option, these oatmeal cups are sure to please. They’re also perfect for school lunches or for packing in lunchboxes. Their versatility allows you to swap in different flavors and ingredients, so you’ll never get bored of the same flavor combination.
Conclusion
Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal Cups offer the perfect blend of taste, health, and convenience. They’re a deliciously wholesome breakfast or snack that can be made in just one bowl with simple ingredients. Packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats, these oatmeal cups are not only a great way to start your day but also provide lasting energy throughout the morning. With their chewy texture, rich flavor, and chocolatey goodness, they’re sure to become a family favorite in your home. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or made ahead for a quick grab-and-go breakfast, these oatmeal cups are a win for any occasion. Plus, with the option to customize them to your tastes and dietary needs, they’ll never get old. So why not try them today and discover your new favorite breakfast or snack?