Chocolate Peanut Butter Overnight Oats are a tasty and easy breakfast ready when you wake up. Just mix oats, cocoa powder, peanut butter, and milk in a jar, and let it sit overnight.
It feels like having dessert for breakfast! I love topping mine with bananas or a sprinkle of nuts. Trust me, these oats will start your day with a smile! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the right texture. Quick oats can work, but they’ll absorb more liquid and may turn mushy. Avoid steel-cut oats since they need longer cooking times.
Milk: Any milk works here! Almond and oat milk are great non-dairy choices, but if you prefer whole or almond milk, go for it. Just keep in mind that different milks can slightly change the flavor.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder brings rich chocolate flavor. If you choose to sweeten your oats more, adjust the maple syrup or honey accordingly. Dutch-processed cocoa can also be used for a deeper flavor.
Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter combines smoothly, while chunky adds nice texture. If you want to make it nut-free, try sun butter or tahini instead.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Both sweeteners work equally well. If you want to keep it sugar-free, consider using stevia or agave nectar instead to suit your needs.
How Do You Make Sure the Oats Soak Up the Liquid Properly?
The soaking step is key for a great texture. To ensure your oats soak up the flavors well:
- Mix the oats and cocoa thoroughly before adding liquids to avoid clumps.
- Whisk wet ingredients in a separate bowl before combining, which helps distribute flavors evenly.
- Make sure the jars or containers are sealed well to prevent leaks and help with flavor absorption.
If you find the oats are too thick in the morning, don’t worry! Simply stir in a bit more milk until you reach the desired consistency.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Overnight Oats
Ingredients:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based, e.g., almond or oat milk)
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
- 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (adjust sweetness to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)
- Optional: additional peanut butter for topping
- Optional: extra oats for topping or garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll need to let it chill in the fridge overnight (or at least 6 hours). So, while the prep is quick, the best part is waiting for the delicious flavors to meld!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Oats and Cocoa:
In a medium mixing bowl or directly into two small jars, combine the rolled oats and cocoa powder. Give it a good stir to make sure the cocoa coats all the oats evenly.
2. Add Wet Ingredients:
Next, pour in the milk, add the peanut butter, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together really well until the peanut butter is fully mixed in and the texture is smooth.
3. Fold in the Chocolate Chips:
Gently fold the mini chocolate chips into the mixture, making sure they’re spread out nicely throughout.
4. Chill Overnight:
Cover your jars or bowl tightly with a lid or plastic wrap and place them in the fridge. Let them chill overnight or for at least 6 hours. This helps the oats soak up all those yummy flavors!
5. Prepare to Serve:
In the morning, take the oats out of the fridge and give them a good stir. If it’s too thick for your liking, don’t hesitate to add a splash of milk to loosen them up.
6. Top and Enjoy:
Finish by adding a spoonful of peanut butter on top, a sprinkle of extra oats if you like, and a handful of mini chocolate chips for that extra touch. Enjoy them directly from the jar or bowl!
7. Optional Additions:
For more deliciousness, consider adding sliced bananas or a handful of nuts on top for added texture and flavor. They’ll make your overnight oats even more delightful!
This recipe makes about two servings, perfect for a quick breakfast for two or for meal prep throughout the week. Enjoy your tasty and nutritious start to the day!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
While you can use quick oats, keep in mind they may turn mushy since they absorb liquid faster. For the best texture, we recommend sticking with old-fashioned rolled oats.
How Can I Make These Overnight Oats Vegan?
Simply substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, and make sure to use plant-based milk such as almond, oat, or soy milk. The recipe remains delicious and entirely vegan!
Can I Prep These Oats for a Whole Week?
Yes, you can prepare a batch of these overnight oats to enjoy throughout the week! Just store them in airtight containers in the fridge. They’ll last for about 5 days. Add fresh toppings like fruit or nuts just before serving for the best texture.
What If My Oats Are Too Thicky the Next Morning?
No problem! If the oats are thicker than you’d like, just stir in a little extra milk until you reach your desired consistency. This keeps them creamy and enjoyable!
