Cook the sweet potato using your preferred method. Allow it to cool, remove the skin, then mash 1 cup worth of sweet potato flesh in a measuring cup.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a 9” x 9” baking dish with parchment paper.

Transfer the oats to a food processor and blend for 1-2 minutes, until a coarse flour forms. Add the rest of the ingredients to the food processor and process until everything is well combined. If adding, stir in the chocolate chips.

Pour the chocolate oats mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.

Sprinkle the top with extra chocolate chips.

Bake on the center rack of the preheated oven for 28-30 minutes, or until the oats are baked through. Insert a digital thermometer into the center of the oats. If it reads 190 degrees F or higher, the baked oats are ready.

Allowing the batch to cool to room temperature will result in cleaner slices. If you want to serve the baked oats before they have cooled off, just note that the slices won’t be clean. Cut into individual portions and enjoy it with fresh fruit, yogurt, and a drizzle of maple syrup.