These Brownie Batter Overnight Oats are a chocolate lover’s dream! They’re creamy, chocolaty, and so easy to prepare. Just mix oats with cocoa, milk, and a few yummy extras!
Who knew breakfast could taste like dessert? I love waking up to a bowl of these oats, ready to go! You can even add nuts or chocolate chips for fun. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: The base of your overnight oats! Rolled oats are key for the right texture. Instant oats can work in a pinch, but they’ll be mushier. If gluten is a concern, look for certified gluten-free oats.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder gives that rich chocolate flavor. If you want a sweeter touch, use chocolate-flavored protein powder instead, or add more sweetener to your taste.
Chia Seeds: These are great for thickening the oats and adding some healthy fiber. If you don’t have chia seeds, you can skip them or use ground flaxseed as an alternative.
Milk: Use your favorite milk, whether it’s dairy, almond, oat, or soy milk. Coconut milk can add a nice creamy texture, while almond milk is lighter. You can also try yogurt for a thicker consistency.
Chocolate Chips & Nuts: Mini chocolate chips add sweetness and fun! Feel free to substitute with cacao nibs for less sugar, or use any nuts or seeds you love.
How Do I Make My Overnight Oats Extra Creamy?
For creamy overnight oats, the key is in the liquid-to-oats ratio and optional ingredients. The yogurt here can make a big difference! Here’s how to ensure you get that rich, brownie batter texture:
- Use a 3/4 cup measurement of milk. If too thick after chilling, just spoon in a bit more milk the next morning until it’s how you like it.
- Mix in your yogurt thoroughly if using; it adds creaminess and a slight tang.
- Let it sit overnight to soak up all those flavors and make it creamy. The longer, the better!
Enjoy your easy breakfast that’s like a dessert treat!
Brownie Batter Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 to 2 tablespoons sweetener of choice (maple syrup, honey, or agave syrup)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon mini chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon chopped macadamia nuts or walnuts (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes just about 10 minutes to prepare and requires at least 6 hours (or overnight) to chill in the refrigerator. Perfect for a quick and indulgent breakfast waiting for you in the morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
Start by taking a mason jar or a bowl. In it, combine the rolled oats, unsweetened cocoa powder, chia seeds, your sweetener of choice, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix everything together well so that the cocoa powder is evenly distributed.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients:
Next, pour in the milk and add the Greek yogurt if you’re using it. Give everything a good stir until all the ingredients are fully combined and the mixture looks nice and chocolatey!
3. Cover and Refrigerate:
Cover your mason jar or bowl with a lid or plastic wrap. Put it in the refrigerator and let it chill overnight, or for at least 6 hours. This allows the oats and chia seeds to soak up the liquid and thicken up nicely.
4. Enjoy the Next Morning:
The next morning, take your delicious overnight oats out of the fridge and give them a good stir. If they’re too thick for your liking, just add a little splash of milk to loosen them up.
5. Add Toppings:
Finally, top your brownie batter oats with some mini chocolate chips and chopped nuts for a bit of crunch and extra flavor. Yum!
6. Time to Enjoy!
Dig in straight from the jar or bowl with a spoon. Enjoy this delightful breakfast that tastes just like brownie batter!
This recipe yields a rich and creamy chocolate-flavored overnight oats experience, perfect for an easy and indulgent breakfast! Enjoy your chocolaty treat!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
While you can use quick oats, they will result in a much softer and mushier texture. Rolled oats are recommended for the best consistency, giving you that perfect overnight soak while maintaining a slight chew.
How Can I Sweeten These Oats Without Sugar?
If you’re looking to avoid traditional sugars, consider using mashed bananas or unsweetened applesauce as natural sweeteners. Both will add extra flavor while keeping the oats healthy!
Can I Make These Oats Vegan?
Absolutely! Simply use a plant-based yogurt and a vegan sweetener like maple syrup. All of the ingredients are easily adaptable to fit a vegan diet.
How Long Do Leftover Overnight Oats Last?
Leftover oats can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They may thicken in the fridge, so just add a splash of milk before enjoying!
