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Craving a warm, comforting breakfast with a caffeine kick? Look no further than these small batch Mocha Oatmeal Bowls! Inspired by the classic coffeehouse drink, this recipe combines rich, dark chocolate with creamy oats and a hint of coffee for a flavor explosion in every bite. Forget fancy equipment or complicated steps – this fuss-free oatmeal comes together in minutes, perfect for busy mornings or cozy weekend indulgences.

a mocha oatmeal bowl on a silver tray.

In search of more nutritious breakfast choices? Explore our fluffy Frittata, sweet Fruit Quesadilla, creamy Avocado Toast, or refreshing Green Smoothie. Each recipe is not only healthy but also packed with delightful flavors to kickstart your morning.

Why You’ll Love This Mocha Bowls Recipe

  1. Unique Flavor: Combines the comforting taste of oatmeal with the rich, indulgent flavor of mocha.
  2. Easy to Make: Simple and straightforward, this recipe is perfect for busy mornings.
  3. Customizable: Easily adaptable to your dietary preferences and available ingredients.
  4. Nutritious: Packed with the goodness of oats, cocoa, and nuts or seeds.
  5. Versatile: Perfect as a hearty breakfast, satisfying snack, or even a dessert!

Nourishing Superfood Bowls: A Must-Have Cookbook For Healthy, Easy Meals

Today, I’m excited to share a recipe from Lindsay Cotter’s latest cookbook, “Nourishing Superfood Bowls.” Many of you might recognize Lindsay from her popular blog, Cotter Crunch, where she showcases a fantastic array of healthy, gluten-free recipes. As a Nutrition Specialist, Lindsay has a deep understanding of gluten-free diets and infuses this knowledge into her cooking.

Receiving a copy of her cookbook was a real treat for me. While I’ve always been a fan of the recipes on her blog, having them compiled in a beautifully photographed book is truly special. Lindsay’s cookbook focuses on power bowls – meals brimming with healthy ingredients that are not only easy to prepare and consume but also simple to clean up and wonderfully portable. Each recipe is a testament to her expertise in creating meals that are both nourishing and convenient, making this cookbook an essential for anyone looking to enhance their meal prep with delicious, healthy options.

Another highlight of Lindsay’s cookbook is its focus on recipes that are perfect for serving 1-2 people, which is one of the main reasons I’m thrilled to introduce it to you. For those who often cook for more, there’s no need to worry – the book also includes a good selection of recipes that cater to 3-4 servings.

I’m incredibly thankful to Lindsay for giving me the opportunity to share one of her recipes with all of you. The recipe I’ve chosen, the Midnight Mocha Oatmeal Bowl, is not only an energizing breakfast option but also doubles as a healthy and delicious dessert. I’ve personally tried it and can vouch for its great taste and nutritional value.

Nourishing Superfood Bowls Cookbook by Lindsay Cotter on a wooden table next to a stack of two bowls

RELATED: 20 Single Serving Breakfast Recipes Worth Waking Up For

Exploring Midnight Mocha

Wondering what Midnight Mocha is? Picture a blend of rich dark chocolate, robust coffee, and creamy steamed milk. This delightful combination is a favorite in many coffee shops. If you’re a fan of these flavors, imagine them infused into oatmeal. It’s a must-try for anyone who enjoys the classic mocha taste.

Two mocha oatmeal bowls topped with coconut shavings on a metal tray

Ingredients And Substitutions

If you have any ingredients leftover from this oatmeal bowl recipe, check out our Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder.

  • Brewed Coffee: The star ingredient for that classic mocha flavor. Coffee adds a rich, deep taste and a hint of bitterness that balances the sweetness of the other ingredients. If you’re not a coffee fan, try using decaf for less caffeine or a chicory root beverage for a caffeine-free alternative. Consider using leftover coffee in a small German Chocolate Cake or a single serve Tiramisu.
  • Drinking Coconut Milk or Almond Milk: These plant-based milks add creaminess to the oatmeal bowl without the dairy. They’re lighter than canned coconut milk and offer a subtle nutty flavor. Consider using leftover coconut milk in a Tropical Smoothie. If you prefer, cow’s milk or soy milk can be used as substitutes.
  • Gluten-Free Rolled Oats: The base of your oatmeal bowl, providing texture and a hearty, full feeling. Gluten-free oats ensure the dish is safe for those with gluten sensitivities. Regular rolled oats work just as well if gluten isn’t a concern. Use leftover oats in Baked Oatmeal, Orange Oat Breakfast Cake, or Baked Apples.
  • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: This gives a rich chocolatey flavor, complementing the mocha theme. It’s also packed with antioxidants. For a different twist, carob powder can be a substitute, offering a naturally sweet taste.
  • Dark Chocolate Chips: They melt into the oatmeal, creating pockets of gooey chocolate. Dark chocolate is preferred for its less sweet, more intense flavor. Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips can be used if you prefer a sweeter taste. Use extra chocolate chips to make Chocolate Chip Banana Bread or Eggless Chocolate Chip Cookies.
  • Unsweetened Coconut: Adds texture and a tropical hint to the oatmeal. It’s a great source of fiber and healthy fats. If coconut isn’t your thing, you could use nuts or seeds for crunch. Use leftover coconut in Ambrosia, Morning Glory Muffins, and Gingerbread Granola.
  • Black Chia Seeds or Flaxseed: These are nutritional powerhouses, rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. They also help thicken the oatmeal. Use either one, or a combination of both, based on your preference or availability. Consider using leftover flaxseed in a Fruit Quesadilla.
  • Maple Syrup (Optional): A natural sweetener to enhance the overall flavor of the oatmeal bowl. It’s optional because the dark chocolate chips and cocoa powder already contribute sweetness. Honey or agave syrup are good alternatives if maple syrup isn’t available. If you’ve got a little leftover maple syrup, use it in a mini Pecan Pie made with maple syrup instead of corn syrup, a Maple Muffin or Overnight Oats.
Two bowls of mocha oatmeal topped with coconut shavings on a metal tray

How To Make A Delicious Mocha Oatmeal Bowl

  1. Combine Coffee and Milk: Start by blending your brewed coffee with coconut or almond milk. Gently pour a portion of this coffee-milk blend over your oats. You can choose to cook this in a saucepan for stovetop preparation or in a microwave-safe bowl if you’re using a microwave. Cook the oats until they absorb all the liquid and become soft.
  2. Add Cocoa and Toppings: Once the oats are cooked, stir in a bit of unsweetened cocoa powder for that rich chocolate flavor. Transfer the oats into your serving bowl. Now, sprinkle in dark chocolate chips, unsweetened coconut, and black chia seeds. Drizzle with maple syrup for a touch of natural sweetness.
  3. Finish with Coffee Mixture: Pour the remaining coffee and milk mixture over the top of your oatmeal. Grab a spoon and dive into this delightful oatmeal bowl.

Note: This recipe is wonderfully versatile. I’ve often swapped out maple syrup for honey when I didn’t have syrup on hand. For those who aren’t fans of coconut, feel free to skip it, or add extra chocolate chips for an indulgent twist. This mocha oatmeal bowl is forgiving and customizable to suit various tastes, always resulting in a delicious and satisfying meal.

RELATED: 20 Meatless Meals For One

Oatmeal Bowl| One Dish Kitchen

Expert Tips

  • Perfect Consistency: Cook your oats to your preferred thickness by adjusting the liquid.
  • Balance Flavors: Taste as you go and adjust the sweetness and chocolate intensity.
  • Fresh Brew: Use freshly brewed coffee for the best flavor.
  • Toppings: Get creative with toppings for added texture and taste.
  • Serve Warm: Always serve this oatmeal warm for maximum enjoyment.

Serving Suggestions

Enhance your oatmeal bowl with these ideas:

  • Fresh Fruit: Top with banana slices or berries for a fresh twist.
  • Nuts: Add crunch with a sprinkle of your favorite nuts.
  • Yogurt: A dollop of yogurt adds creaminess and tang.
  • Add protein: Add some protein powder or nut butter for a post-workout breakfast.
  • Cinnamon or Nutmeg: A pinch can add warmth and spice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use instant coffee in this oatmeal bowl?

Yes, but brewed coffee delivers a richer flavor.

How can I increase the protein content in this oatmeal bowl?

To boost the protein, consider adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder, Greek yogurt, or a handful of nuts.

Can I double this oatmeal bowl recipe?

Absolutely! Simply double the ingredient amounts.

Ways To Use Leftover Ingredients

If you have any ingredients leftover from this recipe, check out our Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder or you might like to consider using them in any of these single serving and small batch recipes:

For information on the cooking and baking dishes I use in our “recipes for one”, please visit our FAQ page.

For examples of the dishes used at One Dish Kitchen, please visit our Store page.

RELATED: Recipes For Empty Nesters – The Joys Of Cooking For Two


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Mocha Oatmeal Bowls

5 from 3 votes
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 10 minutes
Total: 20 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Start your day with a delicious Mocha Oatmeal Bowl! Healthy, easy and quick to prepare, it blends coffee and chocolate for a delightful twist.

Ingredients 
 

  • ½ to ⅓ cup brewed coffee (120 to 180 ml)
  • ½ to ⅓ cup drinking coconut milk or almond milk, plus more for topping (120 to 180 ml)
  • 1 cup gluten-free rolled oats (80 g)
  • cup unsweetened cocoa powder, plus extra for topping (40 g)
  • cup dark chocolate chips, plus more for topping (60 g)
  • ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut (40 g)
  • ¼ cup black chia seed or flaxseed, plus more for topping (40 g)
  • Maple syrup, optional
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Instructions 

  • Combine Coffee and Milk: Start by mixing the brewed coffee with coconut milk. Then, pour 1/4 cup of this mixture over the oats, which you can place either in a microwave-safe bowl or a saucepan.
  • Cook the Oats: If using a microwave, cook the oats and coffee mixture for about 1 to 2 minutes. If cooking on a stovetop, set the heat to medium and let the oats simmer for 5 to 10 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed.
  • Reserve Coffee Mixture for Topping: Save an additional 1/4 to 1/3 cup of the coffee mixture to use as a topping later.
  • Add Cocoa and Toppings: After the oats are cooked, stir in the cocoa. Then, divide the oats into two bowls. Sprinkle in the chocolate chips, coconut, chia seeds, and maple syrup as desired.
  • Final Touches: Drizzle the remaining coffee mixture over the oatmeal. For an extra creamy texture, feel free to add more coconut milk or cream. Finally, garnish with additional dark chocolate chips and chia seeds for extra flavor and crunch.

Notes

  • Perfect Consistency: Cook your oats to your preferred thickness by adjusting the liquid.
  • Balance Flavors: Taste as you go and adjust the sweetness and chocolate intensity.
  • Fresh Brew: Use freshly brewed coffee for the best flavor.
  • Toppings: Get creative with toppings for added texture and taste.
  • Serve Warm: Always serve this oatmeal warm for maximum enjoyment.
 
This recipe was reprinted with permission from Nourishing Superfood Bowls by Lindsay Cotter.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving, Calories: 484kcal, Carbohydrates: 63g, Protein: 12g, Fat: 20g, Saturated Fat: 7g, Sodium: 16mg, Potassium: 350mg, Fiber: 19g, Sugar: 14g, Vitamin A: 125IU, Calcium: 247mg, Iron: 5.9mg

The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.

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5 from 3 votes

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4 Comments

  1. Lindsay Cotter says:

    Thank you so so much friend! These bowls looks beautiful and i cannot thank you enough for sharing my cookbook. Truly! <3

    1. Joanie Zisk says:

      Lindsay,
      Your cookbook is absolutely beautiful and there are so many recipes I just can’t wait to try!

  2. Jenn says:

    LOVE this cookbook like woah! (So excited to cook my way through it now that we’re on Summer break!) This recipe is a must-try for sure!

  3. Sues says:

    This is probably the BEST way to get me up in the morning! Coffee, chocolate, coconut, and oats… I’ll set my alarm extra early for this ๐Ÿ™‚