Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Chocolatey Goodness: The rich chocolate flavor makes this breakfast feel like a treat, while still being healthy.
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Quick and Easy: Just mix the ingredients, refrigerate overnight, and enjoy a hassle-free, no-cook breakfast the next day.
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Customizable: Add your favorite toppings, such as fruits, nuts, or seeds, to make it your own.
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Healthy: Packed with oats, which are high in fiber, and cocoa powder, which provides antioxidants, this breakfast will keep you full and energized throughout the morning.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1/2 cup rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
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1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
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1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for added fiber and omega-3s)
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1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (or sweetener of choice)
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1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond, oat, or soy)
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
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1/4 cup Greek yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess and protein)
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2 tablespoons chocolate chips or cocoa nibs (optional, for extra chocolatey goodness)
Directions
Prepare the Oats:
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Combine the Ingredients: In a mason jar or airtight container, add the rolled oats, cocoa powder, chia seeds (if using), honey or maple syrup, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
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Mix Well: Stir everything together until the oats are well coated in the liquid and cocoa powder. If you’re using Greek yogurt, add it to the mixture and stir until smooth.
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Chill Overnight: Cover the container with a lid and refrigerate overnight (or for at least 4 hours). The oats will absorb the liquid, soften, and thicken into a creamy texture.
Serve:
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Top and Enjoy: In the morning, give the oats a good stir and taste. You can adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or maple syrup if needed. Top with chocolate chips, fruit, or nuts for added texture and flavor.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 1
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Preparation Time: 5 minutes
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Chill Time: 4 hours or overnight
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Total Time: 5 minutes (plus chilling time)
Variations
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Add Fruits: Top with fresh berries, banana slices, or diced apple for extra sweetness and nutrients.
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Nut Butter: Stir in a spoonful of peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter for extra richness and healthy fats.
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Make it Vegan: Use plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) and maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan option.
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Spiced Chocolate: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spiced-up version of this chocolate treat.
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Add Crunch: Top with granola, nuts, or seeds to add some crunch and extra protein.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store leftover overnight oats in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The oats will continue to soak up the liquid, so they may thicken slightly.
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Reheating: You can eat overnight oats cold straight from the fridge, or heat them up in the microwave for 30-60 seconds if you prefer them warm.
FAQs
Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats, but the texture will be softer and less chewy compared to rolled oats. You may also need to adjust the liquid amounts slightly since instant oats absorb liquid faster.
Can I add protein powder to these oats?
Absolutely! You can stir in a scoop of your favorite protein powder (vanilla, chocolate, or unflavored) to boost the protein content of your oats.
Can I make these oats ahead of time for a few days?
Yes, you can prepare multiple servings and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it a perfect meal prep option.
Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes! Feel free to use your preferred sweetener, such as stevia, agave, or coconut sugar, to taste.
Conclusion
Chocolate Overnight Oats are the perfect way to start your day with a healthy yet indulgent breakfast. With their creamy, chocolatey goodness and customizable toppings, they make for an easy, satisfying, and nutritious option that you can prepare in advance. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, snack, or dessert, these oats are sure to hit the spot every time!
Chocolate Overnight Oats
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Chocolate Overnight Oats are a creamy, indulgent yet healthy breakfast treat packed with fiber, protein, and antioxidants. This easy-to-make, no-cook breakfast combines the rich flavor of cocoa with oats, making it a delicious and nutritious way to kickstart your day. Customize it with your favorite toppings for added texture and flavor. Perfect for busy mornings, these oats are a grab-and-go option that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients
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1/2 cup rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
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1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
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1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for added fiber and omega-3s)
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1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (or sweetener of choice)
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1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond, oat, or soy)
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
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1/4 cup Greek yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess and protein)
- 2 tablespoons chocolate chips or cocoa nibs (optional, for extra chocolatey goodness)
Instructions
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Combine the Ingredients: In a mason jar or airtight container, add oats, cocoa powder, chia seeds (if using), honey or maple syrup, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
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Mix Well: Stir until everything is well combined. If using Greek yogurt, add it and mix until smooth.
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Chill Overnight: Cover the container with a lid and refrigerate overnight (or for at least 4 hours). The oats will absorb the liquid and thicken into a creamy texture.
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Serve: In the morning, stir the oats and taste. Adjust sweetness if necessary, and top with chocolate chips, fruits, or nuts for added flavor and texture.
Notes
Add fruits: Top with berries, bananas, or apples for an extra nutrient boost.Nut butters: Stir in peanut, almond, or cashew butter for extra richness and healthy fats.Vegan option: Use plant-based milk and maple syrup for a vegan-friendly version.Spiced chocolate: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cayenne for a spiced version.Add crunch: Top with granola or nuts for added crunch and protein.
