Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal is a delightful blend that I absolutely adore for breakfast. This recipe combines the rich flavors of dark chocolate with the freshness of cherries, creating a perfect start to the day. With its creamy texture and nutritious ingredients, this dish is not only indulgent but also wholesome. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl of oatmeal or a nutritious breakfast option, this recipe has you covered. Let’s dive into the delicious world of Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal!
Why You’ll Love This Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal
There are countless reasons to love this Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal. First, it’s incredibly delicious, combining the sweetness of cherries with the rich depth of dark chocolate. Second, it’s a healthy dark chocolate oatmeal option that doesn’t compromise on taste. Third, it’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy mornings. Additionally, this recipe is versatile; you can try variations like cherry chocolate overnight oats or a chocolate cherry breakfast bowl. It’s also packed with nutrients, thanks to the oats and cherries, and can be made vegan or gluten-free. Best of all, it can be enjoyed hot or cold!
Ingredients for Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal
Gather these items:
- 1 cup Rolled Oats
- 2 cups Milk (or non-dairy milk)
- 1/2 cup Dark Chocolate Chips
- 1 cup Fresh Cherries (diced)
- 2 tablespoons Cocoa Powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
- 1 tablespoon Maple Syrup (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
How to Make Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Step-by-Step
- Step 1: In a medium saucepan, combine the rolled oats, milk, cocoa powder, and salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Step 2: Stir occasionally and let it cook for about 5 minutes until the oats are soft and creamy.
- Step 3: Once the oatmeal has reached your desired consistency, remove it from heat.
- Step 4: Stir in the dark chocolate chips and vanilla extract until melted and combined.
- Step 5: Fold in the diced cherries for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Step 6: Serve immediately, drizzling with maple syrup if desired.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal
Keep these in mind:
- Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture.
- Feel free to substitute the dark chocolate chips with cacao nibs for a healthier option.
- If you’re looking for a vegan version, almond milk or oat milk works wonderfully.
- To enhance the flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.
Best Ways to Serve Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal
There are many delicious ways to enjoy this dark chocolate cherry oatmeal. Serve it warm, topped with extra fresh cherries and a sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings for an indulgent breakfast. You can also prepare it as cherry dark chocolate oatmeal overnight by soaking the oats in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Pair it with a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess or sprinkle some nuts for a crunchy texture.
How to Store and Reheat Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal
If you have leftovers, store your dark chocolate cherry oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of milk to the oatmeal in a saucepan and warm it over low heat, stirring until heated through. This makes it a fantastic meal prep option!
Frequently Asked Questions About Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal
What’s the secret to perfect Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal?
The secret lies in using high-quality dark chocolate and fresh cherries. This ensures the oatmeal is not only rich in flavor but also packed with nutrients, making it a deliciously healthy breakfast.
Can I make Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare this chocolate cherry oatmeal the night before. Just follow the instructions and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, reheat and enjoy!
How do I avoid common mistakes with Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal?
To avoid overcooking, watch the oatmeal closely as it simmers. Stirring frequently can prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan and ensure a creamy texture.
Variations of Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal You Can Try
There are several delicious variations of dark chocolate cherry oatmeal to explore. Try adding different fruits like bananas or nuts for added texture. You can also experiment with different types of milk, such as coconut or almond milk, to change the flavor profile. For a protein boost, mix in some nut butter or protein powder. These twists can cater to various diets, including vegan and gluten-free!
For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making chocolate oatmeal bars for a quick snack. You can also explore almond cherry cookies for a delightful treat!
For more information on the health benefits of oats, you can visit Healthline.
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Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal: 7 Reasons to Indulge
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Decadent Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies to Savor
Ingredients
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1/2 cup Dark Brown Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cardamom
- 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
- 1 large Egg
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (melted)
- 1/4 cup Milk
- 1 cup Rolled Oats
- 3/4 cup Dark Chocolate Chips
- 1 cup Fresh Cherries (diced)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, ground cardamom, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, vanilla extract, melted butter, and milk until smooth.
- Slowly combine the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
- Fold in rolled oats, dark chocolate chips, and diced cherries until evenly mixed.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each mound.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden brown, then remove from oven and cool for 5 minutes.
Notes
- Whole wheat flour can be used for a nuttier flavor.
- Brown sugar can replace granulated sugar.
- Light brown sugar can be a substitute for dark brown sugar.
- Cinnamon can replace ground cardamom.
- For vegan, use a flax egg instead of an egg.
- Coconut oil can substitute unsalted butter.
- Non-dairy milk works well instead of regular milk.
- Avoid instant oats for best texture.
- You can use frozen cherries after thawing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 80 mg
- Fat: 6 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Keywords: Dark Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal