If you’ve been searching for a warm, comforting breakfast that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl, the Chocolate Chip Baked Oats Without Banana Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe swaps out banana for creamy Greek yogurt and almond butter, creating a rich, tender texture that’s perfectly balanced with the sweet pop of chocolate chips. It’s an easy, wholesome dish that will brighten up your mornings with every bite, whether you’re cooking for one or sharing with a friend.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of the ingredients. Each item plays an important role—from the hearty oats that provide fiber and substance, to the almond butter that adds smooth richness and a hint of nuttiness. Together, they create a naturally sweet, filling breakfast without needing any banana at all.
- 1 cup rolled or old-fashioned oats: Choose old-fashioned for the best chewy texture.
- 1 egg: Binds everything together and adds a fluffy, custard-like softness.
- ½ cup almond milk (or milk of choice): Keeps the oats tender while making the dish dairy-friendly if needed.
- ⅓ cup vanilla non-fat Greek yogurt (or low fat): Adds creaminess and a subtle tang, which balances the sweetness beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon almond butter (or nut butter of choice): Gives a rich, nutty flavor and makes the oats delightfully moist.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: A natural flavor enhancer that amps up the sweetness without sugar.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Leavens the oats, helping them rise into a light, baked dish instead of a dense blob.
- 1 pinch salt: Enhances all the flavors steeped in the oats.
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar (or maple syrup, honey, or sweetener of choice): Just enough sweetness to satisfy any morning craving.
- 2 tablespoons chocolate chips (divided): Use your favorite kind to add bursts of melty chocolate; dark or semi-sweet are always winners.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Baked Oats Without Banana Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 355° Fahrenheit. This temperature is just right for baking the oats slowly enough to develop a tender crumb while achieving a golden top. Prepare two ramekins by lightly greasing them so the baked oats don’t stick when you’re ready to dig in.
Step 2: Blend the Batter
In your blender, combine all the ingredients except for the chocolate chips. Blend for just a few seconds to marry the flavors and create a smooth batter. Be careful not to over-blend; you want some texture from the oats to stay intact. Once blended, let the mixture rest for a couple of minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 3: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Stir in half of the chocolate chips gently by hand. This helps distribute little pockets of chocolate throughout the batter that will melt just right during baking, adding delightful gooey surprises in every bite.
Step 4: Pour and Top
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared ramekins placed on a baking sheet. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips on top; they will toast lightly in the oven, giving a beautiful texture and flavor contrast.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The baked oats should be golden and set but still soft and moist inside. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Baked Oats Without Banana Recipe
Garnishes
Topping your baked oats elevates the experience. A drizzle of extra almond butter adds richness, while fresh berries provide a burst of brightness and natural sweetness that complements the chocolate. A sprinkle of chopped nuts or a dusting of cinnamon can add texture and warmth.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple cup of coffee or a creamy latte for a balanced breakfast. If you want to add some extra protein, a side of Greek yogurt or a hard-boiled egg works beautifully. For fruit lovers, a small bowl of seasonal fruit or a citrus salad balances the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the baked oats straight from the ramekins for a rustic, homey feel, or transfer them onto a pretty plate and add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a dessert-like brunch treat. Layer some granola on top just before serving for extra crunch, turning this morning dish into a sensory delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If by some miracle you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The oats will keep their flavor, and you can enjoy a ready-made breakfast on busy mornings.
Freezing
For a longer storage option, these baked oats freeze beautifully. Pop them out of the ramekins after cooling, wrap individually in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to one month. This makes them an easy on-the-go breakfast option for weeks ahead.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the microwave for about 60 seconds, or until warmed through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first for even heating. Add a splash of milk or a smear of nut butter before reheating to refresh the texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other nut butters instead of almond butter?
Absolutely! Peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter all make fantastic alternatives, each bringing their own unique flavor nuances that pair perfectly with chocolate chip baked oats.
Is it necessary to use Greek yogurt?
Greek yogurt adds that creamy tang and moisture that replaces the banana in this recipe. You can substitute with regular yogurt or even a dairy-free alternative, but it might slightly change the texture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just be sure to use certified gluten-free rolled oats to avoid any cross-contamination. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How do I know when the baked oats are done?
The best test is to insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the oats are perfectly baked. Avoid overbaking to keep them tender.
Can I add extra flavors to the batter?
Definitely! Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a splash of espresso for a unique twist. You could also mix in chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Chip Baked Oats Without Banana Recipe is one of those rare breakfasts that feels both indulgent and nourishing. It’s simple enough for a weekday morning but special enough to brighten your weekend brunch. Give it a try—the warm aroma, melty chocolate, and creamy bite will make it a fast favorite in your recipe collection.
Print
Chocolate Chip Baked Oats Without Banana Recipe
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A delicious and easy recipe for Chocolate Chip Baked Oats made without bananas. This quick, wholesome breakfast or snack uses simple ingredients blended together and baked to create a warm, comforting dish packed with oats, Greek yogurt, almond butter, and melty chocolate chips. Perfect for a nutritious start to your day or a satisfying treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled or old-fashioned oats
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar (or maple syrup, honey, or sweetener of choice)
- 2 tablespoons chocolate chips (divided into 2 portions; use dark, semi-sweet, sugar-free, or any preferred type)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 egg
- ½ cup almond milk (or milk of choice)
- ⅓ cup vanilla non-fat Greek yogurt (or low fat)
- 1 tablespoon almond butter (or nut butter of choice; plus extra for topping optional)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 355° Fahrenheit to prepare for baking your oats evenly.
- Blend Ingredients: Add all ingredients except the chocolate chips into a blender and blend briefly until smooth. Avoid over-blending to maintain texture.
- Rest Batter: Let the blended mixture rest for a couple of minutes to allow it to thicken slightly.
- Incorporate Chocolate Chips: Stir half of the chocolate chips into the batter carefully to distribute the chocolate pieces.
- Prepare Ramekins and Bake: Lightly spray two ramekins with cooking oil, place them on a baking sheet, pour in the batter, and sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips on top. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Top with extra nut butter, berries, or your favorite toppings. Enjoy warm!
Notes
- You can substitute almond milk with any milk of your choice such as cow’s milk, oat milk, or soy milk.
- For a vegan version, swap the egg with a flax or chia egg and use a plant-based yogurt.
- Adjust sweetness by varying the amount or type of sweetener including honey, maple syrup, or sugar alternatives.
- If you don’t have ramekins, any oven-safe small baking dish can be used.
- Try adding nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American