These Almond and Dark Chocolate Overnight Oats are a tasty way to start your day! Creamy oats mingle with crunchy almonds and rich dark chocolate for a sweet surprise each bite.
I love how easy they are to prepare. Just mix the ingredients the night before, and breakfast is ready when you wake up. Who wouldn’t want a delicious treat waiting for them? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are the base of the dish and provide great texture. Quick oats will work in a pinch, but they might make the mixture a bit mushy.
Almond Milk: Unsweetened almond milk is my go-to for a light flavor. If you’re not a fan of almond, try oat milk or coconut milk for a change!
Greek Yogurt: This is optional but adds creaminess and protein. If you want a dairy-free version, use coconut yogurt or skip it altogether.
Almond Butter: I love the taste it adds! You can swap it for any nut butter like peanut butter or sunflower seed butter if allergies are a concern.
Chia Seeds: These are great for thickening the oats and adding fiber. You can also use ground flaxseed if you don’t have chia seeds on hand.
Sweetener: Maple syrup gives a nice flavor, but honey or agave syrup can be used instead. Adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference!
What’s the Best Way to Prepare Overnight Oats?
Preparing overnight oats is all about combining the ingredients correctly to ensure the best texture. It’s simple! Here’s how to do it:
- In a bowl or jar, mix your oats, almond milk, and any additional ingredients like yogurt and almond butter. Stir well to combine.
- The key is to ensure that all oats are submerged in liquid. This helps them absorb flavors and soften up overnight.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight. This is where the magic happens! The oats and chia seeds soak up the liquid while you sleep.
- In the morning, give them a good stir. If they are too thick, add a splash of almond milk until you reach your desired consistency.
- Top with your favorites, such as dark chocolate and almonds, for added texture and flavor.
With these tips, you’ll have creamy, delicious oats ready to enjoy any time of day!
Almond And Dark Chocolate Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- 1 tbsp almond butter
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder or dark chocolate syrup (plus extra for drizzling)
- A pinch of salt
- 2 tbsp chopped dark chocolate or dark chocolate chunks
- 2 tbsp sliced almonds
- Whole almonds for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll just need to let it chill in the fridge overnight (or at least 6 hours). So, you’ve got a quick prep time and a tasty breakfast waiting for you when you wake up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl or jar, combine the rolled oats, almond milk, Greek yogurt (if you’re using it), almond butter, chia seeds, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together well to combine. The mixture will be somewhat liquidy, and that’s just perfect!
2. Let It Chill:
Cover the bowl or jar with a lid or some plastic wrap. Pop it in the fridge and let it chill overnight. This gives the oats and chia seeds time to absorb the liquid and become soft and creamy.
3. Finish Up in the Morning:
The next morning, take your oat mixture out of the fridge and give it a good stir. If it looks too thick, don’t worry! Just add a splash of almond milk to loosen it up until you get the consistency you like.
4. Add Toppings:
Now, it’s time to make it beautiful and delicious! Top your oats with chopped dark chocolate, sliced almonds, and a drizzle of chocolate syrup for that extra treat. It’s all about that finishing touch!
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Finally, garnish your oats with a few whole almonds on top for some crunch and extra flair. Serve chilled and dig in to enjoy your creamy, chocolatey almond breakfast! It’s not only delicious but also a wholesome start to your day.
This recipe provides a rich and nutty flavor with a delightful hint of dark chocolate, making it a perfect grab-and-go breakfast or a healthy snack!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! To make these overnight oats vegan, simply omit the Greek yogurt or use a dairy-free yogurt alternative, and stick with maple syrup as your sweetener.
How Long Do These Overnight Oats Last?
You can store your overnight oats in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to give them a good stir before eating, as they may thicken further over time.
Can I Use Steel-Cut Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Steel-cut oats require longer soaking time and will not achieve the same creamy texture overnight. If you prefer steel-cut oats, let them soak for at least 8 hours or cook them slightly before adding to the mixture.
What Other Toppings Work Well With This Recipe?
Feel free to customize your toppings! Fresh fruits like banana or berries, nut butters, coconut flakes, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon can elevate your oats further. Just get creative!
