Description

Craving a breakfast that tastes like a churro-dusted cheesecake but is packed with wholesome ingredients? Churro Cheesecake Baked Oats combine the creamy, protein-rich texture of cottage cheese with the warm, cinnamon-sugar crunch of a churro, finished with an optional chocolate drizzle.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheesecake Baked Oats:

¾ cup rolled oats: Provides a hearty, fiber-rich base.
½ teaspoon cinnamon: Adds warm, churro-inspired flavor.
½ teaspoon baking powder: Ensures a light, cake-like texture.
¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness.
⅓ cup milk: Adds moisture for a soft consistency.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness and flavor.
2-3 tablespoons maple syrup: Sweetens naturally, adjustable to taste.
1 large egg: Binds the mixture and adds richness.
½ cup cottage cheese: Brings protein and a creamy, cheesecake-like texture.

Churro Topping:

1 teaspoon cinnamon: Mimics the classic churro flavor.
2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Creates a sweet, crunchy topping.

Chocolate Drizzle (Optional):

1 tablespoon dark chocolate chips: Adds a rich, indulgent finish.
¼ teaspoon coconut oil: Helps create a smooth drizzle.

Why These Ingredients Matter

Cottage Cheese: Adds protein and a creamy, cheesecake-like texture.
Rolled Oats: Provide fiber and a hearty base for a cake-like consistency.
Cinnamon-Sugar Topping: Mimics the crunchy, sweet coating of a churro.
Chocolate Drizzle: Offers a decadent touch, making it feel like dessert.

Substitutions and Variations

Cottage Cheese: Substitute with Greek yogurt or ricotta for similar creaminess.
Rolled Oats: Use quick oats for a softer texture (reduce milk slightly); avoid steel-cut oats.
Milk: Use dairy (whole, skim, or 2%) or non-dairy (almond, oat, soy) milk.
Maple Syrup: Replace with honey, agave nectar, or a sugar-free sweetener (adjust to taste).
Vegan Option: Use plant-based cottage cheese or yogurt, a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water), non-dairy milk, and vegan chocolate chips.
Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free rolled oats and ensure baking powder is gluten-free.
Fruit Boost: Fold in ¼ cup blueberries or mashed banana with the wet ingredients.
Nutty Topping: Add 1 tablespoon chopped pecans or almonds to the churro topping

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Instructions

Step 1: Gather and Prep

Gather all ingredients: ¾ cup rolled oats, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, ½ teaspoon baking powder, ¼ teaspoon salt, ⅓ cup milk, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 2-3 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 large egg, ½ cup cottage cheese, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon dark chocolate chips, and ¼ teaspoon coconut oil.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Choose a large ramekin (about 16 oz) for 1 serving or 2-3 smaller ramekins (6-8 oz each) for individual servings.

Tip: Use whole milk cottage cheese for the creamiest texture, but low-fat works too.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large ramekin (or a bowl if dividing into smaller ramekins), combine ¾ cup rolled oats, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, ½ teaspoon baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Stir well.

Tip: Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of baking powder for a consistent rise.

Step 3: Blend Wet Ingredients

In a blender, combine ½ cup cottage cheese, ⅓ cup milk, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 2-3 tablespoons maple syrup, and 1 large egg.
Blend until smooth, about 30-60 seconds, ensuring no cottage cheese curds remain.

Tip: Start with 2 tablespoons maple syrup and taste the mixture; add more for extra sweetness.

Step 4: Combine and Mix

Pour the blended wet ingredients over the dry ingredients in the ramekin or bowl.
Mix gently until just combined, ensuring no dry oats remain.

Tip: Stir lightly to avoid a dense texture; a few lumps are okay.

Step 5: Add Churro Topping

In a small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon cinnamon and 2 tablespoons granulated sugar.
Sprinkle the churro topping evenly over the top of the oat mixture in the ramekin(s).

Tip: Spread the topping evenly for a consistent crunchy layer.

Step 6: Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
Switch to LOW broil and broil for 5 minutes to crisp the topping, watching closely to prevent the sugar from burning.

Tip: Check frequently during broiling to avoid burning; the topping should be golden and crisp.

Step 7: Prepare Chocolate Drizzle (Optional)

In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 tablespoon dark chocolate chips and ¼ teaspoon coconut oil.
Microwave in 10-second intervals, stirring between each, until melted and smooth (about 20-30 seconds total).
Whisk to combine.

Tip: Use a small spoon or piping bag for a neat drizzle.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the baked oats cool for 5 minutes.
Drizzle the melted chocolate mixture over the top, if using.
Serve warm directly from the ramekin(s) for the best flavor and texture.

Tip: Enjoy warm to savor the creamy oats and crunchy topping.