Super Healthy Chocolate Baked Steel Cut Oats
Try this Super Healthy Chocolate Baked Steel Cut Oats recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Super Healthy Chocolate Baked Steel Cut Oats recipe, or contribute your own.
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 banana
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup spinach
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
- 2 1/2 cup steel cut oats
- 1/4 cup ground almonds (aka almond meal)
- 2 cups milk (i used plain almond milk)
- 1 apple, cut into chunks
- optional for serving: fresh berries milk, banana slices, almond slices
- Carbohydrate 31.0545582508269 g
- Cholesterol 0.81666666500978 mg
- Fat 3.0355529178956 g
- Fiber 3.9218262357997 g
- Protein 3.05202054299317 g
- Saturated Fat 0.664221159053249 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (87g)
- Sodium 131.614150157822 mg
- Sugar 27.1327320150272 g
- Trans Fat 0.183075775054658 g
- Calories 159 calories
Step-by-step
- Combine dry ingredients in a large bowl, stirring well. Place all wet ingredients in a high-powered blender. Blend until completely smooth and spinach isn’t visible. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and combine well. Pour mixture into a greased 9x13 pan.
- Cover and sit in refrigerator overnight. (This step is important, as it softens the oats.)
- Set baked oatmeal on counter while oven preheats to take the chill off. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until it doesn’t move when you shake it. (Note: It will still be creamy inside but the top will be completely set.)
- Serve warm with milk and fresh fruit on top. Add more sweetener if desired.
- Prepare through Step 3. Let cool completely. Wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap and freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator for 24-48 hours. Bake as directed, adding extra time if needed, until center is set.
Super Healthy Chocolate Baked Steel Cut Oats: A Busy Mom's Secret Weapon
As a working mom, time is my most precious commodity. Juggling work deadlines, school runs, and after-school activities leaves me with precious little time for elaborate meal prep. That's why I'm always on the lookout for quick, healthy, and delicious recipes that the whole family will enjoy. This Super Healthy Chocolate Baked Steel Cut Oats recipe has become a lifesaver, a true breakfast champion in our household. It’s not just convenient; it’s genuinely nutritious and surprisingly decadent. The secret? A little sneaky spinach and a whole lot of chocolatey goodness!
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. I can whip up a large batch on the weekend, portion it into individual containers, and grab one from the freezer each morning. It’s ready to bake in minutes, resulting in a warm, comforting breakfast even on the busiest of weekdays. My kids, who are normally picky eaters, devour this. They love the combination of the soft, creamy oats and the rich chocolate flavor. It's a win-win: a healthy breakfast they actually look forward to!
Beyond the Convenience: A Nutritional Powerhouse
This isn't just a quick breakfast; it's packed with nutrients. The steel-cut oats provide sustained energy, keeping me feeling full and focused throughout the morning. The addition of spinach adds a secret boost of vitamins and minerals without compromising the taste. The pumpkin puree adds a creamy texture and a touch of sweetness, reducing the need for excessive added sugar. And let's not forget the almonds and flaxseed, which contribute healthy fats and fiber to the mix.
Adapting the Recipe to Your Needs
One of the things I love most about this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different types of milk (almond, soy, oat), or add your favorite fruits and nuts. Sometimes, I swap the apple for blueberries or raspberries, depending on what's in season. A sprinkle of chopped nuts on top adds a delightful crunch. The possibilities are truly endless!
More than Just Breakfast: A Versatile Treat
This baked oatmeal isn't just confined to breakfast. It makes a perfect dessert for those evenings when you crave something sweet but want to avoid refined sugars. Served warm with a dollop of yogurt or a scoop of ice cream, it's the perfect ending to a busy day.
The Freezer is Your Friend
My absolute favorite part of this recipe is its freezer-friendliness. Preparing a large batch on the weekend and freezing individual portions is a game changer. This saves me valuable time during the week. Simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in the morning. It’s the ultimate time-saving breakfast hack for busy moms everywhere!
So, if you're looking for a healthy, delicious, and convenient breakfast option that the whole family will love, I highly recommend giving this Super Healthy Chocolate Baked Steel Cut Oats recipe a try. It's a game-changer, especially for those days when you're short on time but still want a nutritious and satisfying start to the day.
