Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Squares with Chocolate Chips
Highlighted under: Comfort Cravings Kitchen
Start your day right with these delicious baked oatmeal breakfast squares, packed with chocolate chips and wholesome ingredients.
Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Squares with Chocolate Chips are not just a delicious breakfast option; they're also a fantastic way to meal prep for the week. With the perfect combination of oats, chocolate, and a hint of sweetness, these squares will satisfy both your taste buds and your hunger.
Why You'll Love These Squares
- A scrumptious blend of wholesome oats and rich chocolate chips
- Easy to make ahead for busy mornings
- Healthy, filling, and perfect for the whole family
The Perfect Start to Your Day
Mornings can be hectic, and finding a nutritious breakfast that the whole family will enjoy can be a challenge. These Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Squares with Chocolate Chips offer a delightful solution. They are not only easy to prepare but also provide the essential nutrients your body needs to kickstart the day. With a perfect balance of fiber from oats and a touch of sweetness from chocolate chips, these squares will keep you energized and satisfied until lunchtime.
Additionally, the versatility of this recipe means you can customize it to suit your family's tastes. Whether you prefer adding nuts, dried fruits, or even a sprinkle of seeds, the base recipe is flexible enough to accommodate various mix-ins. This makes it a fun and interactive cooking experience, allowing everyone to contribute their favorite ingredients.
Healthy Yet Delicious
One of the standout features of these breakfast squares is their wholesome ingredient list. Rolled oats are a fantastic source of complex carbohydrates and fiber, which help to maintain steady energy levels throughout the morning. When combined with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, you can indulge in a sweet treat without the guilt typically associated with sugary breakfast options.
Moreover, the inclusion of applesauce not only adds moisture but also provides additional fiber and a hint of natural sweetness. This means you can enjoy a delicious breakfast while also nourishing your body with essential vitamins and minerals. These squares are a great way to start the day on a healthy note.
Make-Ahead Convenience
One of the best aspects of these Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Squares is their make-ahead convenience. You can whip up a batch on the weekend and store them in the fridge for quick breakfasts during the week. Simply slice them into squares and store them in an airtight container; they will last up to a week in the refrigerator, or you can freeze them for longer storage.
In the mornings, you can enjoy them straight from the fridge, or quickly warm them up in the microwave for a comforting treat. This time-saving approach means you can enjoy a healthy breakfast without the fuss of daily preparation, making it an ideal option for busy families or individuals.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your baked oatmeal squares.
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/2 cup applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start preparing your oatmeal squares!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to bake your delicious oatmeal squares.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a square baking dish.
Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. In another bowl, combine the milk, honey or maple syrup, applesauce, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
Add Chocolate Chips
Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
Bake
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cool and Serve
Let the baked oatmeal cool for a few minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm or store for later.
Enjoy these delicious squares as a quick breakfast or snack!
Storage Tips
To maintain the freshness of your Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Squares, store them in an airtight container. If you plan to keep them for more than a few days, consider freezing individual portions. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can easily grab a square whenever you need a quick breakfast option.
When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight or heat directly in the microwave. This will preserve their texture and flavor, ensuring you have a delicious and nutritious breakfast available any day of the week.
Nutritional Benefits
These breakfast squares are packed with nutritional benefits that make them a smart choice for any meal. Oats are known for their health benefits, including heart health support and cholesterol-lowering properties. They are also rich in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress in the body.
Additionally, the use of applesauce in the recipe contributes to the overall fiber content, aiding in digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness. The chocolate chips, while a treat, can also provide a boost of energy and can be enjoyed in moderation, making these squares a balanced option for breakfast.
Serving Suggestions
For an extra special breakfast, consider serving your Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Squares with a dollop of yogurt on top. This adds creaminess and an additional protein boost, making your meal even more satisfying. Drizzling a little extra maple syrup or honey can enhance the sweetness if desired.
You can also pair these squares with fresh fruits such as sliced bananas or berries for a refreshing and vibrant breakfast option. This not only adds flavor but also increases the nutritional value, giving you a well-rounded start to your day.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make these squares vegan?
Yes, simply use non-dairy milk and replace honey with maple syrup.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
→ Can I freeze these oatmeal squares?
Absolutely! Wrap them individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
→ What can I substitute for applesauce?
You can use mashed bananas or yogurt as a substitute.
Baked Oatmeal Breakfast Squares with Chocolate Chips
Start your day right with these delicious baked oatmeal breakfast squares, packed with chocolate chips and wholesome ingredients.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Comfort Cravings Kitchen
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 9 squares
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/2 cup applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a square baking dish.
In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. In another bowl, combine the milk, honey or maple syrup, applesauce, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Let the baked oatmeal cool for a few minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm or store for later.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 130mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 5g