Berry Chocolate Overnight Oats are a tasty way to start your day! With creamy oats mixed with sweet berries and rich chocolate, they’re like a dessert for breakfast.
Let’s face it, who wouldn’t want chocolate in the morning? I love that I can make these the night before, making my busy mornings a little sweeter and a lot easier!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are perfect for overnight oats because they soak up liquids well. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, make sure to buy certified gluten-free oats.
Milk: You can use any type of milk—dairy or plant-based. Almond milk or oat milk work great! If you’re avoiding dairy, coconut milk adds a nice creaminess too.
Yogurt: While yogurt adds extra creaminess, you can skip it if you want to keep it lighter or vegan. You can also use non-dairy yogurt made from almond, soy, or coconut.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder gives that rich chocolate flavor. For a sweeter taste without adding much sugar, try using chocolate protein powder instead.
Sweeteners: Feel free to adjust the sweetness to your taste. Agave or maple syrup are simple alternatives. If you’re looking for a sugar-free option, consider using stevia or erythritol.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Overnight Oats Texture?
Getting the right texture in your overnight oats is key for the best eating experience. Here’s how to do it:
- Use the right oat-to-liquid ratio: 1 part oats to 1 part liquid is a good rule. This keeps your oats creamy and not too dry.
- Mix well: Stir all ingredients together thoroughly to avoid clumps of dry oats.
- Let them soak: Refrigerate overnight or at least 4-6 hours. This allows the oats to absorb the liquid and soften.
- Adjust consistency: If the oats are too thick in the morning, add a splash of milk to loosen them up.
These tips will ensure your overnight oats are always creamy and delicious! Feel free to get creative with toppings in the morning too!
Berry Chocolate Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup plain or vanilla yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1-2 teaspoons sweetener of choice (honey, maple syrup, or agave)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen; such as blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
- 1 tablespoon dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 4 hours (or overnight) for the oats to soak in the fridge. In total, you’re looking at a quick prep time with delicious, ready-to-eat oats for breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl or mason jar, mix together the rolled oats, cocoa powder, sweetener, and a pinch of salt. Stir them well to ensure the cocoa powder is evenly distributed.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients:
Pour in the milk and vanilla extract, along with the yogurt if you’re using it. Mix well until everything is nicely combined and you can see the chocolate color throughout.
3. Fold in the Berries and Chocolate:
Carefully add half of the mixed berries and half of the chocolate chips into the mixture. Gently fold them in, making sure you don’t break up the berries too much.
4. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover the bowl or jar with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re in a hurry, letting it soak for at least 4 hours will work too!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
The next morning, give the oats a good stir to blend everything together again. Top with the remaining fresh berries and the rest of the chocolate for a delicious finish. If you like, add a dollop of nut butter or a splash of milk for extra creaminess.
6. Dig In!
Scoop your rich, chocolaty, and fruity overnight oats straight from the jar or bowl, and enjoy every bite! This is a wonderful, nutritious breakfast that’s quick and satisfying!
This recipe yields one serving but can easily be adjusted for more portions. Enjoy your creamy, berry-filled delight!
Can I Use Different Types of Oats?
Yes! While rolled oats are best for this recipe, you can also use quick oats. Just note that they may absorb the liquid faster and result in a softer texture. Steel-cut oats are not recommended as they won’t soften properly overnight.
Can I Swap the Berries for Other Fruits?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite fruits such as sliced bananas, diced apples, or even peaches. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply give them a good stir before eating, and add a splash of milk if they’ve thickened up too much.
Can I Make These Oats Vegan?
Yes! To make this recipe vegan, use plant-based milk and skip the yogurt, or choose a plant-based yogurt alternative. The sweeteners like maple syrup or agave are also vegan-friendly!
