As I shuffled through my pantry in search of a quick breakfast, my eyes landed on a bag of oat flour and a jar of hazelnut butter. Suddenly, inspiration struck! The thought of creating a warm, chocolatey treat that combines the satisfying crunch of pretzels with the rich flavors of cocoa was simply irresistible. That’s how my Simple Chocolate Pretzel Baked Oats were born—a cozy, delightful dish that manages to feel indulgent while still being healthy.
Imagine waking up to the enticing aroma of chocolate filling your kitchen, or treating yourself to a dessert that feels decadent yet is packed with wholesome ingredients. This baked oatmeal can transform any mundane morning into a celebration of flavors, perfect for anyone who loves homemade meals. It’s a straightforward recipe that’s perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a sweet escape from fast food. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering dish that’s sure to become a new favorite in your home!
Why love Simple Chocolate Pretzel Baked Oats?
Irresistible flavor: The rich chocolate and nutty hazelnut flavor combine beautifully, creating a delicious breakfast treat or dessert.
Easy preparation: With minimal ingredients and a simple mixing process, you can whip this up in no time, perfect for busy mornings.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or swaps—think berries or nut butters—to make it your own.
Healthy indulgence: This dish feels like dessert but is packed with protein and wholesome oats, giving you energy for the day.
Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this sweet treat, making it a hit for family breakfasts or brunch gatherings.
Embrace a healthier alternative to your usual breakfast with this enticing dish!
Simple Chocolate Pretzel Baked Oats Ingredients
For the Base
- Oat flour – Perfect for a gluten-free option, adding a hearty texture to the oats.
- Unsweetened cacao powder – Provides a rich chocolate flavor without added sugars.
- Baking powder – Helps the oats rise slightly, giving a delightful softness.
- Chocolate protein powder – Boosts the protein content, making this dish a filling option.
For the Wet Ingredients
- Unsweetened almond milk – Adds creaminess; you can substitute with any milk of choice.
- Plain yogurt – Contributes moisture and tanginess; use Greek yogurt for added protein.
- Honey or maple syrup – Naturally sweetens the dish; opt for maple for a vegan version.
For the Center and Toppings
- Hazelnut butter – Offers a nutty goodness at the heart of the dish, enhancing its flavor.
- Chocolate chips – Melts beautifully, adding an indulgent chocolatey burst.
- Pretzels – Provides a satisfying crunch, creating a delightful contrast in texture.
Elevate your breakfast routine with these Simple Chocolate Pretzel Baked Oats that feel just as good as they taste!
How to Make Simple Chocolate Pretzel Baked Oats
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the oat flour, unsweetened cacao powder, baking powder, and chocolate protein powder with a pinch of salt. This dry blend forms the flavorful foundation of your baked oats.
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Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the almond milk, plain yogurt, and honey or maple syrup. Stir gently until everything is well mixed, creating a smooth and creamy batter.
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Transfer Batter: Spoon the oatmeal batter into an oven-safe container or ramekin, making sure to reserve 1/8 of the batter for later. This ensures a delightful hidden filling!
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Add Hazelnut Goodness: Create a small well in the center of the batter and spread hazelnut butter or place a chocolate square there. This addition will melt beautifully, creating a luxurious bite.
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Cover the Filling: Use the reserved batter to cover the hazelnut filling, sealing in all the deliciousness.
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Top with Crunch: Sprinkle chocolate chips and pretzels on top of the covered batter. This will give your baked oats an irresistible crunch and sweetness.
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Bake: Place your creation in the oven preheated to 180°C (350°F) and bake for 15 minutes for a gooey texture, or for 25 minutes for a more cakey consistency, depending on your preference.
Optional: Drizzle with extra hazelnut butter before serving for an indulgent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Simple Chocolate Pretzel Baked Oats
Feel free to experiment with these variations to make your baked oats uniquely yours!
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Nut-Free: Swap hazelnut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free twist while keeping the flavor delightful.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut yogurt instead of plain yogurt to maintain creaminess without dairy.
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Fruit-Filled: Add fresh berries or sliced bananas into the center for a fruity burst that brightens each bite.
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Choco-Mint: Incorporate a few drops of peppermint extract in the batter for a refreshing mint chocolate experience.
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Crunchy Toppings: Sprinkle some chopped nuts or granola on top along with pretzels for an added texture and nutty flavor.
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Sweetness Adjustment: Decrease or increase the honey or maple syrup based on your sweetness preference. A little adjustment can make it just right!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a sprinkle of cayenne for a warm, spicy twist that’s unexpected but delicious.
These variations encourage creativity and personal touch, all while keeping deliciousness at the forefront!
What to Serve with Simple Chocolate Pretzel Baked Oats?
Complement this deliciously gooey breakfast with delightful pairings that enhance its rich flavors and textures.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy blueberries or raspberries provide a tart contrast, brightening the sweet chocolate profile and adding a fresh burst of color.
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Coconut Yogurt: This luscious, creamy addition enhances the dish’s richness while offering a delightful tropical twist, perfect for a morning treat.
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Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola offers a delightful textural contrast, adding extra fiber and nutty undertones that elevate each bite.
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Banana Slices: Sliced bananas bring natural sweetness and creaminess, harmonizing beautifully with the chocolate and hazelnut flavors for a wholesome boost.
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Chai Latte: A warm chai latte adds cozy spices that complement the rich cocoa, creating an aromatic and delicious breakfast experience.
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Vanilla Almond Milk: For a lighter drink option, pour a glass of vanilla almond milk alongside your baked oats to enhance their sweet flavors.
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Breakfast Smoothie: A berry or banana smoothie adds freshness and nutrition, balancing the sweetness of the oats while providing additional vitamins.
These accompaniments will transform your breakfast into a delightful array of flavors and comfort, ensuring every bite is a rewarding experience!
Expert Tips for Simple Chocolate Pretzel Baked Oats
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Check Doneness: Keep an eye on the baking time; every oven is different. If you prefer gooey oats, stick to 15 minutes, but don’t hesitate to give them a bit longer for a firmer texture.
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Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined to keep the baked oats light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to denser oats, defeating the purpose of this lovely breakfast treat.
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Versatile Fillings: Feel free to get creative with your fillings! Swap the hazelnut butter for almond or peanut butter, or add a layer of banana slices for extra flavor.
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Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a quick and satisfying breakfast.
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Perfect Serving Size: Consider using individual ramekins for a fun presentation. It’s also a great way to control portion sizes and avoid waste!
These Simple Chocolate Pretzel Baked Oats are bound to be a hit—happy cooking!
Make Ahead Options
These Simple Chocolate Pretzel Baked Oats are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy mornings! You can mix the dry ingredients and combine them with the wet ingredients up to 24 hours in advance. Just store the mixed batter in the refrigerator in an airtight container to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to bake, simply transfer it to your chosen baking dish, add the hazelnut butter and toppings, and pop it into a preheated oven. Additionally, you can freeze the baked oatmeal for up to 3 days. Just ensure it’s properly sealed in a container to prevent freezer burn; reheat in the oven to restore that delightful texture. Enjoy warm, delicious bites with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Simple Chocolate Pretzel Baked Oats
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your baked oats fresh and ready for quick breakfasts!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds or until heated through. Enjoy your delicious Simple Chocolate Pretzel Baked Oats anytime!
Simple Chocolate Pretzel Baked Oats Recipe FAQs
What type of oat flour should I use?
You can use store-bought oat flour, but if you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own by grinding rolled oats in a blender until fine! Either way, ensure it’s fresh to get the best flavor and texture in your baked oats.
How should I store Simple Chocolate Pretzel Baked Oats?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I always recommend letting them cool completely before sealing. This helps maintain that lovely texture!
Can I freeze Simple Chocolate Pretzel Baked Oats?
Absolutely! For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge, then reheat. I often heat individual servings in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds until warm.
What should I do if my baked oats come out too dry?
To avoid dryness, make sure not to bake them for too long and keep an eye on the time, especially if you prefer a gooey texture. If they do end up dry, don’t fret! You can serve them with a drizzle of almond milk or coconut yogurt to add moisture back into the dish.
Can I adapt this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Very! You can make this recipe vegan by using a plant-based yogurt and substituting honey with maple syrup. If allergies are a concern, try using sunflower seed butter instead of hazelnut butter, and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free. The more the merrier with alternative ingredients!
How do I know when my baked oats are ready?
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your Simple Chocolate Pretzel Baked Oats are done! If you’re aiming for a gooey center, aim for 15 minutes baking time.
These FAQs should help you enjoy your baking adventure with confidence!
Simple Chocolate Pretzel Baked Oats for a Cozy Breakfast Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the oat flour, unsweetened cacao powder, baking powder, and chocolate protein powder with a pinch of salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the almond milk, plain yogurt, and honey or maple syrup. Stir gently until well mixed.
- Transfer Batter: Spoon the oatmeal batter into an oven-safe container, reserving 1/8 of the batter for later.
- Add Hazelnut Goodness: Create a small well in the center and spread hazelnut butter or place a chocolate square.
- Cover the Filling: Use the reserved batter to cover the hazelnut filling.
- Top with Crunch: Sprinkle chocolate chips and pretzels on top of the covered batter.
- Bake: Place in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) and bake for 15 to 25 minutes.