Vegan Chocolate Blended Baked Oats Recipe

Rolled oats: The base of the recipe, providing fiber and a hearty texture.

Plant-based milk: Keeps the recipe vegan and adds creaminess; options include almond, soy, or oat milk.

Cocoa powder: Adds rich chocolate flavor to the dish.

Maple syrup: A natural sweetener that enhances the overall taste.

Baking powder: Helps the mixture rise and become fluffy.

Vanilla extract: Adds a hint of sweetness and depth of flavor.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients.

To achieve a smoother texture in your blended baked oats, make sure to blend the rolled oats and plant-based milk for at least 1-2 minutes. This ensures that the oats are fully broken down and the mixture is well-incorporated. Additionally, sifting the cocoa powder before adding it to the blender can help prevent clumps, resulting in a more uniform batter.

• rolled oats - Substitute with quinoa flakes: Quinoa flakes offer a similar texture and are also gluten-free, providing a good source of protein and fiber.

• plant-based milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk adds a creamy texture and a subtle coconut flavor, which can complement the chocolate taste.

• cocoa powder - Substitute with carob powder: Carob powder is naturally sweet and caffeine-free, making it a good alternative for those avoiding caffeine.

• maple syrup - Substitute with agave nectar: Agave nectar is a natural sweetener with a lower glycemic index, making it a good alternative for those monitoring their blood sugar levels.

• baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Mixing baking soda with cream of tartar can mimic the leavening effect of baking powder.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor profile that pairs well with chocolate.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can offer a slightly different mineral content and flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

• Allow the vegan chocolate blended baked oats to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the oats soggy.

• Transfer the cooled oats into an airtight container. This will help maintain their freshness and prevent them from absorbing any unwanted odors from the fridge.

• Store the container in the refrigerator. The baked oats can be kept in the fridge for up to 5 days, making them a perfect make-ahead breakfast or snack option.

• For longer storage, consider freezing the baked oats. Cut them into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help protect them from freezer burn.

• Place the wrapped portions into a freezer-safe bag or container. Label the container with the date to keep track of their freshness.

• When you're ready to enjoy a portion, simply remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Alternatively, you can reheat it directly from frozen in the microwave. Place the baked oats on a microwave-safe plate and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through.

• For an extra touch of indulgence, consider serving the reheated vegan chocolate blended baked oats with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of plant-based yogurt.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover Vegan Chocolate Blended Baked Oats in an oven-safe dish. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the texture and flavor.

• Microwave Method: Transfer a portion of the baked oats to a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. Stir gently and continue heating if necessary. This is the quickest method but may alter the texture slightly.

• Stovetop Method: Place the baked oats in a non-stick skillet over low heat. Add a splash of plant-based milk to prevent sticking and to rehydrate the oats. Stir occasionally and heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes. This method can give a slightly crispy edge to the oats.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C). Place the baked oats in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This method can give a delightful crispiness to the edges while keeping the center moist.

• Oven: Used to bake the blended oats mixture at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Blender: Essential for blending all the ingredients together until smooth.

• Baking dish: Holds the blended mixture while it bakes in the oven.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the rolled oats and plant-based milk accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the cocoa powder, maple syrup, baking powder, vanilla extract, and salt.

• Spatula: Helps to scrape down the sides of the blender and pour the mixture into the baking dish.

• Oven mitts: Protect your hands when placing the baking dish in the oven and when removing it after baking.

• Cooling rack: Allows the baked oats to cool slightly before serving.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients like rolled oats, cocoa powder, and maple syrup beforehand to streamline the process.

Use a high-speed blender: A high-speed blender will blend the mixture more quickly and smoothly, saving you time.

Prepare the baking dish: Grease or line your baking dish before starting to avoid delays when pouring the mixture.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and bake in a larger dish to have extra servings for the week.

Cool quickly: Place the baked oats on a cooling rack to speed up the cooling process.