Cherry Chocolate Chunk Baked Oatmeal

Cherry Chocolate Chunk Baked Oatmeal is a simple, one bowl recipe that’s loaded with flavor. Filled with healthier ingredients, this make-ahead breakfast is perfect for everyone!

Enjoy more hearty breakfasts with blueberry baked oatmeal, peanut butter banana baked oatmeal cups, and banana chocolate chip baked oats!

Baked oatmeal recipes are a favorite of mine. 

You just can’t beat the simple, healthy ingredients, hearty texture, and delicious flavors of baked oats. It’s such a versatile dish and one that I make often.

You’ll never guess that this recipe is healthy, as the dark cherries and chocolate make this breakfast taste like a dessert. In fact, it’s slightly reminiscent of oatmeal cookies, warm from the oven.

If dark chocolate cherry flavors are your jam, then this will become one of your favorite breakfast recipes. I used frozen dark sweet cherries, but you could easily use fresh cherries when they’re in season.

And let’s not forget about the chocolate! Dark chocolate chunks give these baked oats that ooey, gooey melty texture. It pairs perfectly with the sweet cherries and is a match made in heaven.

Did I mention this is a one bowl recipe? Everything is combined in just one bowl and then transferred a baking dish. And that means less dishes and easy clean up!

Ingredients in Cherry Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal:

• Milk: any kind works well
• Eggs
• Honey: I used raw, organic honey to sweeten the oatmeal, but pure maple syrup also works, and in pinch, you could use brown sugar or leave it out entirely.
• Vanilla extract: don’t skip this ingredient, it adds such good flavor to the oatmeal.
• Old-fashioned oats: also called rolled oats
• Spices: ground cinnamon and nutmeg
• Baking powder and baking soda
• Salt
• Frozen cherries
• Chocolate chunks (or chocolate chips)

How to Make Dark Chocolate Cherry Baked Oatmeal:

1. Preheat and prep: preheat your oven and lightly grease an 8×8 baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Whisk: in a large mixing bowl, whisk milk, eggs, honey and vanilla.
3. Add: stir in oats, spices, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Fold in cherries and chocolate and then spread into prepared pan.
4. Bake: cook until oatmeal is golden brown and edges are firm, while the middle of the oatmeal is slightly soft.

Are Baked Oats Healthy?

Yes, baked oats can be healthier because they are high in fiber and can keep you full for longer periods of time. However, it also depends on what additional ingredients are used in baked oatmeal that determine whether it’s healthy or not.

What Kinds of Oats to Use:

Old-fashioned or rolled oats work best for this recipe, but you could use gluten-free oats or steel cut oats. Instant oats or quick oats will not work, as it will not hold together because of the smaller size of the oats and amount of liquid in this recipe.

What Kind of Milk is Best in Baked Oats?

Any kind of milk works well in this recipe. I’ve made this with 2% milk, almond milk, cashew milk, and oat milk and all have turned out well.

Do You Have to Use Frozen Cherries?

Nope! Fresh, pitted cherries would be delicious if they are in season. Otherwise, frozen tart cherries are a great substitute for when fresh ones aren’t in season.

How to Store:

Leftovers will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.

• To freeze: cut slices into squares and store in a freezer-safe container or bag in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, let thaw completely in the refrigerator before serving.
• To reheat: warmed individual squares in the microwave for 30-45 seconds, or until heated through. To reheat the dish in the oven: bake at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

 What to Serve with Chocolate Cherry Baked Oats:

I find this breakfast delicious on its own, as it’s filling and satisfying.  However, baked oats would pair well with fresh fruit, yogurt, or toast.

Variations:

• Swap out the fruit: instead of using frozen cherries, use strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or even dried cherries.
• Switch up the chocolate: use dark chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or mint chips for a different flavor.
• Turn this oatmeal bake into cherry chocolate oatmeal cups: instead of baking in an 8×8 dish, spoon into grease muffin tins and bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes, or until firm.
• Drizzle: top the baked oatmeal with a drizzle of dark chocolate, honey, or some Greek vanilla yogurt just before serving.

Looking for More Easy Breakfast Ideas? I’ve Got You Covered!

• Fluffy Belgian Waffles
• Pumpkin Banana Pancakes
• Air Fryer Breakfast Taquitos
• Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole
• Easy Breakfast Tacos
• Belgian Chocolate Waffles
• Easy Breakfast Quesadillas