Indulge your taste buds with a delightful twist on breakfast that you never knew you needed! Introducing Chocolate Zucchini Baked Oats—a decadent yet nutritious dish that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the hidden goodness of zucchini. Perfect for busy mornings or a cozy brunch, this recipe is not only easy to make but also a guilt-free treat that will leave you craving more. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick prep time, you’ll be amazed at how simple it is to whip up this chocolatey goodness. Get ready to elevate your breakfast game and impress your family with a dish that’s both wholesome and utterly delicious!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup grated zucchini
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Chocolate chips for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8x8 inch baking dish or individual ramekins with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, grate the fresh zucchini using a box grater. Use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to gently squeeze out excess moisture from the grated zucchini to prevent the oats from becoming too wet.
- Combine the rolled oats, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in the mixing bowl. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are well incorporated and free of lumps.
- In a separate bowl, mix the almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Whisk these wet ingredients until they are thoroughly combined.
- Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredients. Add the grated zucchini and stir until all ingredients are evenly mixed and form a consistent batter.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle chocolate chips on top of the batter for added sweetness and texture.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The baked oats are done when the edges are slightly crisp and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let the baked oats cool for 5-10 minutes. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to serve.
- Serve warm, optionally topped with additional chocolate chips, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a dollop of yogurt. Can be enjoyed immediately or stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Squeeze Out Excess Moisture: Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated zucchini. This will prevent your baked oats from becoming soggy and help achieve the perfect texture.
- Customize Your Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of maple syrup to suit your taste. If you prefer a sweeter dish, add an extra tablespoon or two of syrup, or even a sprinkle of brown sugar on top before baking.
- Mix and Match Ingredients: Don’t hesitate to get creative! You can substitute almond milk with any other milk of your choice, and add in your favorite mix-ins like nuts, seeds, or dried fruits for added flavor and nutrition.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your baked oats as they cook. Start checking for doneness around the 25-minute mark; they should be set in the center and slightly crisp around the edges.
- Serve with Toppings: For an extra indulgent experience, serve your baked oats warm with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of yogurt, or a scoop of ice cream for a delicious dessert twist!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
