If you’ve been searching for a wholesome, comforting breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning, you’ve just struck gold with this Chunky Monkey Baked Oatmeal Recipe. Imagine rich bananas, crunchy walnuts, melty chocolate chips, and a hint of coconut all baked together into a hearty, golden-brown dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. This baked oatmeal brings together the best textures and flavors into one bowl, making every bite a little celebration of breakfast joy. It’s simple to make but utterly delightful to eat—trust me, you’re going to want this recipe on standby for all your cozy mornings ahead!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a flat lay of baking ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. In the center is a white bowl filled with light tan rolled oats with a metal scoop resting inside. Surrounding this are small white bowls holding various ingredients: dark brown melted chocolate sauce, dark brown vanilla extract, white flour, dark brown cinnamon powder with a silver spoon, white baking powder, white salt, cracked eggs with bright orange yolks in a white bowl with blue trim, pale yellow melted butter, and white milk in a glass jug. There are also three ripe yellow bananas with brown spots, a small pile of light brown walnuts, and a bowl filled with dark brown chocolate chips. The scene is bright and organized, showing all the different textures and colors clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients together is the first fun step, and the great news is that each item is a star player on its own, enhancing taste, texture, or color in this Chunky Monkey Baked Oatmeal Recipe. These pantry staples combine to make a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

2 eggs: Adds structure and binding to hold everything together with a tender crumb.
1 3/4 cups almond milk: Keeps the oatmeal moist without overpowering the flavors, plus it’s dairy-free.
3 ripe bananas, mashed: The natural sweetness and creaminess are essential for that signature banana flavor.
1/2 cup maple syrup: Adds a rich, deep sweetness that blends beautifully with the bananas.
1/4 cup melted butter or coconut oil: Introduces a lovely richness and helps keep the oatmeal moist.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Elevates the entire flavor profile with its warm aromatic notes.
2 1/4 cups old-fashioned oats: The hearty base that creates the perfect chewy texture.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds a gentle spice that complements the bananas and chocolate perfectly.
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Gives the oatmeal a slight lift, keeping it light and fluffy.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
1/2 cup chopped walnuts, plus more for the topping: Brings crunch and a toasty depth that contrasts beautifully with soft oats.
1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut: Adds subtle tropical flair and chewy texture.
1/3 cup chocolate chips, plus more for the topping: The little pockets of gooey chocolate magic everyone loves.

How to Make Chunky Monkey Baked Oatmeal Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by setting your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures a perfectly even baking temperature so your oatmeal will cook through just right, developing a gorgeous golden crust without drying out.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, almond milk, mashed bananas, maple syrup, melted butter or coconut oil, and vanilla extract. This combination forms the flavorful, moist foundation that ties all the oats and add-ins together.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Next, add the oats, cinnamon, baking powder, and salt to the mix. Stir until the dry ingredients are fully incorporated, ensuring every bite gets that lovely cinnamon-spiced oat goodness.

Step 4: Fold in the Crunch and Chocolate

Time to add the fun stuff: gently fold in the chopped walnuts, shredded coconut, and chocolate chips. These ingredients give the dish its signature “Chunky Monkey” appeal by mixing chewy, crunchy, and sweet textures throughout.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish and Add Toppings

Pour the oatmeal batter into a greased 9×9 baking dish. Sprinkle a handful of extra chopped walnuts and chocolate chips on top for a crunchy, melty finish that looks absolutely irresistible after baking.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the oatmeal looks set and lightly golden on top. Let it cool just a bit before diving in so the flavors have time to settle and the texture firms up.

How to Serve Chunky Monkey Baked Oatmeal Recipe

A white bowl filled with oatmeal, topped with three distinct layers visible from above: on the left side, chopped light brown walnuts with a rough texture; in the center, a pile of dark brown chocolate chips with a smooth, rounded texture; and on the bottom, finely shredded white coconut covering a small portion of the oatmeal’s light beige, creamy surface. A wooden spoon rests in the oatmeal on the right side of the bowl. Around the bowl, there are small white bowls containing oats, chocolate chips, and walnuts, all placed on a white marbled surface. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your Chunky Monkey Baked Oatmeal Recipe even more, sprinkle on a few fresh banana slices or a light dusting of cinnamon right before serving. A spoonful of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of almond butter also works beautifully to add creaminess and extra flavor.

Side Dishes

This baked oatmeal pairs wonderfully with crisp, fresh fruit like berries or apple slices for a pop of brightness. For a savory contrast, crispy bacon or turkey sausage rounds out the meal perfectly without overpowering the delicious sweetness of the oatmeal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving warm squares of your Chunky Monkey Baked Oatmeal with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted coconut for brunch guests. Alternatively, portion it into jars for an on-the-go breakfast that looks as pretty as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The oatmeal will keep its texture well, making it an excellent choice for busy weekday breakfasts.

Freezing

You can freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or placed in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating so it retains maximum flavor and texture.

Reheating

Reheat the baked oatmeal squares in the microwave for about 45 to 60 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 325 degrees until just heated through. Adding a splash of almond milk before reheating keeps things extra moist and tasty.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?

Absolutely! Whole milk, skim milk, or any plant-based milk you prefer will work just fine. Almond milk is simply a popular dairy-free choice, but feel free to switch it up based on your taste and dietary needs.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

With a few tweaks, yes. Use flax or chia “eggs” in place of chicken eggs, swap butter for coconut oil, and make sure your chocolate chips are dairy-free. This way, you’ll still get all the delicious flavors of the Chunky Monkey Baked Oatmeal Recipe without animal products.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Provided you use certified gluten-free oats, this baked oatmeal is naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your baking powder and other add-ins to be sure they’re gluten-free as well.

Can I add other nuts or fruits?

Definitely! Pecans, almonds, or even a mix of your favorite nuts will add great texture. Fresh or dried fruit like blueberries, raisins, or chopped dates can also be folded in for a personalized twist.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The oatmeal is perfectly baked when the edges are golden and the center looks set—not wet or runny. A toothpick inserted in the middle should come out mostly clean with only a few moist crumbs attached.

Final Thoughts

I couldn’t be more excited for you to try this Chunky Monkey Baked Oatmeal Recipe because it truly is one of those special breakfasts that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for busy mornings, this dish hits all the right notes with its comforting textures and playful flavors. It’s a delicious way to start your day on a high note, so go ahead, bake it up, and enjoy every scrumptious bite!