If you’re looking for a scrumptious, wholesome breakfast or snack that feels like a cozy hug in every bite, this Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal Cups Recipe is going to become your new go-to. Imagine tender, warm oatmeal packed with melty chocolate chips, baked perfectly into convenient cups that you can grab and enjoy anytime. The combination of wholesome oats, natural sweetness from applesauce, and rich chocolate creates such a delightful and comforting treat, it’s impossible not to smile with every mouthful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows muffins inside a white baking tray with colorful small dots all over it. Each muffin has one layer of light golden brown oat batter mixed with dark brown chocolate chips scattered on top, some partially melted. The muffins appear moist and soft with a rough texture on the surface from the oats. The muffins are round and fit perfectly inside each compartment of the tray. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple, pantry-friendly, and each plays a vital role in crafting the perfect texture and flavor of your oatmeal cups. From the hearty oats to the burst of chocolate chips, everything combines in harmony to make these cups irresistibly delicious.

2 1/2 cups quick oats: The base of our dish, quick oats ensure a tender texture that bakes beautifully while providing satisfying whole-grain goodness.
2 large eggs: These bind everything together while adding a boost of protein and richness.
1 1/2 cups milk: Gives the oats the moisture they need to become soft and luscious as they bake.
1 cup unsweetened applesauce: Adds natural sweetness and keeps the oatmeal cups moist without extra fat.
1/4 cup granulated sugar: Just enough sweetness to balance out the oats while enhancing the chocolate’s richness.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor with its warm, aromatic notes that tie everything together.
1/4 tsp salt: Enhances flavors and balances the sweetness for a perfectly rounded taste.
1 tsp baking powder: Helps the oatmeal cups rise slightly for a light, tender crumb.
1/2 cup chocolate chips (plus more for topping): The star ingredient that adds gooey, melty pockets of chocolate in every bite.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal Cups Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by heating your oven to 350℉ and giving your muffin pan a light coating of cooking spray. This step is key to making sure your oatmeal cups come out easily later, with no sticking hassles.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the oats, eggs, milk, applesauce, sugar, vanilla, salt, baking powder, and half of your chocolate chips. Stir until everything is fully combined and batters come together in a thick, slightly lumpy mixture—this is the heart of your tasty oatmeal cups.

Step 3: Fill the Muffin Pan

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups. For an extra touch of chocolate goodness and visual appeal, sprinkle a few more chocolate chips on top of each cup before baking.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the muffin pan in your oven and bake for 28 to 30 minutes. The oatmeal cups will develop a light golden-brown color on top and smell absolutely irresistible when done. They’ll feel set around the edges and springy to the touch.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Allow the oatmeal cups to cool completely in the pan. This lets them firm up so they’re easier to remove and eat, but still delightfully moist inside. After cooling, you’re all set to enjoy!

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal Cups Recipe

Two round oatmeal chocolate snacks are stacked on a white marbled surface; the top one has a bite showing the soft texture and melted chocolate chips inside. The base snack is whole, with visible chocolate chips embedded in the golden oatmeal texture. In the background, more of these snacks are blurred, keeping focus on the stack. The light is soft and natural, highlighting the rough oatmeal surface with some dark chocolate spots. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Top your oatmeal cups with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey for an added sweetness that makes each bite extra special. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a smear of nut butter can also add creaminess and a little protein boost to your snack or breakfast.

Side Dishes

Pair these oatmeal cups with fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas to brighten the flavors and add freshness. A cozy mug of warm coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk perfectly complements the comforting texture and chocolatey notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal Cups Recipe with a side of homemade fruit compote or swirl in a bit of peanut butter for a playful twist. For an on-the-go option, wrap individual cups in parchment paper and pack them in your lunchbox or take them along for a quick post-workout snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep your baked oatmeal cups in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate them for up to a week. Refrigeration keeps them fresh and lets the flavors meld even more, especially the chocolate chips.

Freezing

If you want to stash some for later, these oatmeal cups freeze beautifully. Just wrap each one in plastic wrap or store them in a freezer-safe container. They last for up to three months and thaw quickly at room temperature.

Reheating

To enjoy them warm, pop an oatmeal cup in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or warm them in an oven set to 300℉ for about 10 minutes. The chocolate will melt again, and you’ll get that fresh-from-the-oven experience anytime you want.

FAQs

Can I use old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats?

Absolutely! Just keep in mind that old-fashioned oats will give your oatmeal cups a chewier texture and might require you to soak the oats a little longer or bake for a few extra minutes to get them completely tender.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Simply swap out the milk for any plant-based milk like almond, oat, or coconut milk. The recipe remains just as delicious and moist without dairy.

Can I substitute chocolate chips with something else?

Definitely. Feel free to use dried fruit like raisins or cranberries, chopped nuts, or even white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile. Each change brings its own unique twist.

How do I make these cups extra moist?

Ensure you don’t overbake them and be generous with the applesauce, which helps keep moisture locked in. You can also add a splash of yogurt or an extra egg if you want them richer and more tender.

Are these oatmeal cups suitable for meal prepping?

Yes, they are fantastic for meal prepping! Baked oatmeal cups are portable, store well, and reheat quickly, making them an ideal breakfast or snack option for busy days.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so wonderfully satisfying about the Chocolate Chip Baked Oatmeal Cups Recipe that makes you want to keep coming back for more. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or treating yourself to a hearty snack, these cups bring comfort and joy with every warm, chocolatey bite. Give this recipe a try, and soon it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen!