January Bliss Cocoa Burst Oatmeal (Print Version)

A cozy cocoa-infused oatmeal bursting with sweet raisins and comforting warmth.

# List of Ingredients:

→ Dry Ingredients

01 - 1 cup rolled oats
02 - 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
04 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
05 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Wet Ingredients

06 - 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
07 - 1/4 cup maple syrup
08 - 1/4 cup almond milk
09 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Add-ins

10 - 1/3 cup raisins

# Step-by-step Instructions:

01 - Set oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish.
02 - In a large bowl, mix rolled oats, flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly blended.
03 - Stir in applesauce, maple syrup, almond milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
04 - Gently fold the raisins into the batter to distribute evenly.
05 - Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and bake for 25 minutes or until set.
06 - Allow to cool slightly before cutting into portions and serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It tastes like chocolate cake for breakfast, but you know you're eating something nourishing
  • The raisins plump up into little bursts of sweetness that surprise you with every spoonful
  • It's ready in under 10 minutes, making you look like you have your life together on rushed mornings
  • The cocoa deepens in flavor as it cools, revealing chocolate notes you didn't expect
02 -
  • Instant oats will turn your breakfast into mush—I learned this the hard way on my third attempt
  • Sifting your cocoa powder through a fine mesh strainer before mixing it with milk prevents those grainy bits that catch in your teeth
  • The oatmeal thickens considerably as it cools, so make it slightly looser than you think you want it
03 -
  • Make a double batch and store extra in the refrigerator—it reheats beautifully with a splash of milk stirred back in
  • The honey drizzle matters more than you'd think; it creates pockets of caramelized sweetness that taste luxurious