Berry Chocolate Overnight Oats are a yummy way to start your day! With creamy oats, sweet berries, and a touch of chocolate, it’s like dessert for breakfast!
I love how easy they are to make. Just combine everything in a jar, let it sit overnight, and breakfast is ready! Plus, you can enjoy it cold—perfect for busy mornings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are key for a creamy texture. If you’re short on time, instant oats can work, but they’ll be a bit mushier. Try steel-cut oats for a chewier bite, but soak them longer.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa is a must for that rich chocolate flavor. If you’re out, carob powder is a great substitute, though it’s a bit sweeter. Additionally, don’t hesitate to use chocolate protein powder for an extra boost!
Chia Seeds: They help to thicken the oats and add nutrition. If you don’t have them on hand, you can skip them or use ground flaxseed instead.
Sweeteners: Honey or maple syrup are my go-tos for sweetness. You could also use agave syrup or stevia if you’re looking for lower calories. Just adjust the amount to your taste!
Milk: Use any milk you prefer! Almond milk, oat milk, or regular dairy milk all work. Just remember that flavored milks can change the taste slightly—choose vanilla for added sweetness!
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and protein. If you’re not keen on yogurt, you can replace it with applesauce or even skip it.
Mixed Berries: Fresh or frozen, both are delicious! If you can’t find any, sliced bananas or diced apples can make it fruity too.
How Do I Achieve the Right Consistency for Overnight Oats?
Getting the perfect texture for your overnight oats can be tricky. It’s all about the right ratios and soaking time. Here’s how to nail it:
- Combine oats and liquid ingredients; the general rule is 1 part oats to 2 parts liquid.
- For thicker oats, add chia seeds. They absorb liquid and make the oats creamy.
- Make sure to seal the jar well to prevent drying out in the fridge.
- If the oats feel too thick in the morning, simply stir in a little extra milk until you reach your desired creaminess.
With these tips, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying breakfast ready to go whenever you are! Enjoy your oats!
Berry Chocolate Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for thickness and nutrition)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or any yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen; blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
- 1-2 tablespoons chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips
- A small handful of chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
- Extra berries, chocolate chunks, oats, and nuts for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes just about 10 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll let it sit in the fridge overnight or for at least 6 hours. It’s the perfect grab-and-go meal in the morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl or jar, start by combining the rolled oats, cocoa powder, and chia seeds. Give it a good stir to mix everything together. This will be the base for your oats.
2. Mix in the Wet Ingredients:
Next, add the honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, milk, and yogurt (if you’re using it). Stir everything together well until you see a nice, smooth mixture. This is where the magic starts to happen!
3. Add the Berries and Chocolate:
Now it’s time to gently fold in your mixed berries and chopped chocolate. Use a spatula or a spoon to carefully mix them in, so they don’t get too crushed. We want those berries whole and juicy!
4. Refrigerate:
Cover your bowl or seal your jar tightly, then pop it in the fridge for at least 6 hours or overnight. This soaking time allows the oats to soften and soak up all those delicious flavors!
5. Give it a Stir:
In the morning, take your oats out of the fridge. Give them a good stir! If they seem too thick, just add a splash of milk to reach your favorite consistency.
6. Add Toppings:
Now for the fun part! Top your overnight oats with extra fresh berries, nuts, oats, and chocolate chunks. Get creative and make it look pretty!
7. Enjoy:
Grab a spoon and dig in! You can have your Berry Chocolate Overnight Oats cold or let them sit at room temperature for a bit if you prefer. Enjoy your delicious and nutritious breakfast!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Just use maple syrup instead of honey, and select a plant-based yogurt and milk to keep it completely vegan.
How Long Do Leftovers Last?
Your overnight oats can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to keep them in a sealed container to maintain freshness. If they start to dry out, you can stir in a bit of milk before serving!
Can I Use Different Fruits or Add-Ins?
Yes, feel free to mix it up! You can use any kind of berries, bananas, or even diced apples. For extra flavor, consider adding in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or you can swap the chocolate for peanut butter!
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
You can easily customize the sweetness to your taste! Start with the suggested amount of honey or maple syrup, then add more if you like it sweeter. You can also use flavored yogurt or milk for an extra kick of sweetness.