Name: Oats Champorado (Filipino Chocolate Porridge)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Ingredients: 1 cup whole rolled oats; 2 cups water (or milk for a creamier version); 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder; 1-2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste); ¼ cup evaporated or coconut milk (for drizzling); a pinch of salt; optional toppings: dark chocolate shavings, crushed nuts, or banana slices

A warm bowl of Oats Champorado, a Filipino chocolate porridge made with oatmeal, drizzled with milk.

_{A healthy, chocolatey twist on the classic Filipino porridge.}

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I never really thought of myself as someone with a sweet tooth. Even when there were cakes or other desserts around, I’d usually just have a tiny bite and go straight for the savory stuff. But ever since I started leaning into healthier eating, I realized I had been skipping over desserts altogether. In a way, that was a win—less sugar, right? Still, I couldn’t help but notice something funny: the more we try to avoid things that aren’t “good” for us, the more we seem to crave them.

Lately, I’ve found a new appreciation for desserts—especially the ones that feel like a treat but still align with how I want to eat. Oats Champorado isn’t exactly a new idea, but this version is my own little twist. As I searched for a comforting merienda that could satisfy a sweet craving without going overboard, this warm, chocolatey bowl hit the spot. It’s indulgent, yes—but also nourishing, and that’s the balance I’ve come to love.

What is Oats Champorado?

Oats Champorado is a nutritious and delicious variation of the traditional Filipino chocolate porridge, replacing glutinous rice with fiber-packed oats. This healthier version offers the same rich, chocolatey goodness but with the added benefits of oats, making it the perfect comfort food for breakfast. It’s easy to make, satisfying, and perfect for those seeking a lighter yet indulgent meal.

A Brief History of Champorado

Champorado, a beloved Filipino comfort food, originally traces its roots to Mexican champurrado, a thick chocolate drink introduced to the Philippines during the Spanish colonial period. Over time, Filipinos made their own adaptations, transforming it into a rice-based porridge typically enjoyed with a splash of milk. Today, many variations of this dish exist, and Oats Champorado is one such modern and healthier spin, replacing rice with oats for a fiber-rich, lower-calorie option that still delivers the indulgent chocolate flavor Filipino families love.

Reasons to Try This

Quick & Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes!
Healthier Alternative – More fiber, less refined carbs.
Naturally Sweetened – No refined sugar, just honey or maple syrup.

Ingredient Highlights

Whole Rolled Oats: Packed with fiber and whole grains, oats provide a hearty base for this delicious breakfast.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Adds the perfect rich chocolate flavor without the added sugar.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Sweeten your oats naturally for a balanced, comforting flavor.
Evaporated or Coconut Milk: Provides a creamy finish, enhancing the texture and richness of the dish.
Optional Toppings: Dark chocolate shavings, crushed nuts, or banana slices offer a variety of textures and extra flavor.