This chocolate oatmeal recipe is proof that healthy breakfast food recipes can also feel like a warm hug.
I never used to like oatmeal. Shocking for someone who comes from Scotland, right? But I really didn’t. I would go so far as to say I hated oatmeal and wouldn’t touch it if you were willing to pay me a million dollars.
This recipe, however, changed my mind completely and has become one of my breakfast staples. In fact, it’s about the only healthy thing I’ve managed to convince my toddler to eat regularly—and that kid accepts absolutely nothing.
This recipe is great if you are looking for breakfast ideas and are sick of toast, are in need of a low-glucose breakfast, or just a way to manage your addiction to chocolate (guilty), this one’s for you.
The Chocolate Oatmeal Payoff
If you’re like me, you’ve probably had at least one frantic “what do I eat?” moment while trying to wrangle a toddler, find your keys, and answer a message. This recipe for healthy breakfast is my secret weapon. It’s comforting, nourishing, and ticks every box for healthy breakfast food recipes. The best bit is, I can also give it to my toddler, so it’s a one-pot win.
So, whether you’re looking for healthy hot breakfast ideas, a low blood sugar breakfast, or just some easy sweet breakfast ideas that don’t involve pastries, it’s worth giving this chocolate oatmeal a try. Who knows? It might just turn you into an oatmeal person too.
How to Make Oatmeal That You’ll Actually Enjoy
Or, in other words: how do I make oatmeal so it doesn’t taste like cardboard? The key is to always use milk. Water-based chocolate oatmeal can bring no joy in my opinion. For this recipe, this is the way to get the creamiest chocolate oatmeal:
- Combine your oats, almond milk, and cocoa powder in a pot.
- Bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally (don’t wander off or you’ll end up with a cement-like substance).
- Once it’s creamy and thickened, take your oatmeal off the heat and stir in your honey.
- Pour it into your favorite bowl—because aesthetics matter.
- Top with blueberries, raspberries, and a dollop of almond butter and pine nuts.
If you also need to make breakfast for two-year-olds, like me, then you can make this recipe extra creamy by using full-fat milk and mixing a tablespoon of peanut butter through it. It’s a great way to get a healthy and filling breakfast into fussy eaters without them knowing about it.
Why This Chocolate Oatmeal Works for Everyone
If you’re like me—a working mom juggling the chaos of a toddler, work deadlines, and the occasional existential crisis—this recipe is your lifesaver. It’s perfect if you’re looking for:
- Healthy breakfast ideas for weight loss – This breakfast is low in calories while being filling. It is one of my go-to breakfasts when I’ve needed to lose weight because it doesn’t feel restrictive in the slightest.
- Breakfast for low blood sugar – If you suffer from diabetes or high blood sugar, oatmeal is a great complex carb to add to your diet. I reverted to using this breakfast recipe while I had gestational diabetes and was actively monitoring my blood sugar levels. The oats and berries provide a steady energy boost without a sugar crash. (Please note, if you do suffer from diabetes, while oatmeal is a slow-release carb, it is important to monitor your blood sugar levels in line with your doctor’s recommendations as all foods impact each of us differently.)
- Easy hot breakfast ideas – Because cold cereal isn’t cutting it in winter. I love a good overnight oats recipe, but come winter, I’m on the hunt for comfort food.
Oatmeal Just Got Fancy
I’ve played around a lot with my chocolate oatmeal toppings. If you’re feeling extra, here are some of the variations I have tried that you might enjoy:
- Tropical Twist: Swap the almond butter for a sprinkle of toasted coconut.
- Nutty Nutella: Try making this recipe using hazelnut milk. I promise you will not be disappointed. Nutella is all I will say.
- Crunchy Classic: Try adding some nuts and seeds to your topping. My personal favorite is pine nuts and pecans!
The Ultimate Chocolate Oatmeal Recipe
This recipe ticks all the boxes. Need healthy sweet breakfast ideas? Got you. Craving a hot breakfast that’s quick and easy? Done. Need a breakfast for two-year-olds that won’t be met with a firm “nope”? You’re welcome.
Here is what you need for your healthy chocolate oatmeal breakfast bowls.