These Brownie Batter Overnight Oats are a fun and easy breakfast! Packed with chocolatey goodness, they combine oats, cocoa, and a touch of sweetness for a tasty start to your day.
Who knew you could enjoy brownie flavor in the morning? I love how I can prep these the night before and wake up to a delicious treat ready to go. Chocolate for breakfast? Yes, please! 🍫
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats are best for this recipe as they soak up the liquid nicely and offer a good texture. If you want something quicker, instant oats work too, but they may be a bit mushy.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder adds chocolate flavor without extra sugar. You could also try Dutch-processed cocoa for a smoother taste, but be mindful it will alter the color a bit.
Chia Seeds: These seeds help thicken the oats and add omega-3 fatty acids. If you don’t have chia seeds, you can skip them, but they do give a nice texture. Flax seeds are a good alternative too!
Sweetener: Maple syrup or honey gives sweetness, but you can use agave syrup or even a sugar substitute if you’re watching sugar intake. Just adjust based on your taste preference!
Milk: Any milk works! Almond, oat, coconut, or regular dairy milk are all great options. If you prefer it creamier, try adding some canned coconut milk.
Greek Yogurt: This is optional but adds creaminess and protein. You can substitute with a non-dairy yogurt if you’re keeping it plant-based, or leave it out completely if you prefer.
How Can I Achieve the Perfect Overnight Oats Texture?
The key to great overnight oats is the soaking time and the ratio of liquid to oats. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Mix dry ingredients first and then add your wet ingredients to ensure even distribution.
- You want the oats to be fully submerged in liquid. Adjust the milk amount based on your preferred consistency – a tad more for creamier oats.
- Chill overnight (or at least 4 hours) to give the oats time to absorb the liquid and puff up.
- If the mixture seems too thick in the morning, simply stir in a splash of milk until you reach your desired consistency.
With these tips, your overnight oats will be rich, creamy, and ready to enjoy! Happy prepping!
How to Make Brownie Batter Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based, like almond or oat milk)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
Add-Ins:
- 1 tablespoon mini chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
- 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts (plus extra for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe only requires about 10 minutes of prep time, and then you’ll let it chill overnight or for at least 4 hours. This means you can easily prepare it the night before and enjoy a delicious breakfast without any morning fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a mason jar or a bowl, mix together the rolled oats, cocoa powder, chia seeds, and salt. Give it a good stir to ensure everything is evenly distributed. This is the base for your brownie batter flavor!
2. Add Wet Ingredients
Now, pour in the maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and milk. If you’re using Greek yogurt for creaminess, add that as well. Mix everything together thoroughly until it’s well combined. You want to ensure that all the oats are coated!
3. Fold in Chocolate and Nuts
Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips and chopped walnuts. This adds delightful texture and those lovely chocolatey flavors that remind you of brownie batter!
4. Chill in the Fridge
Cover the jar or bowl tightly and place it in the refrigerator. Let the oats soak overnight, or at least for 4 hours. This time allows the oats and chia seeds to absorb the liquid and soften, creating that creamy, dreamy texture.
5. Morning Prep
When you’re ready to enjoy your oats, take them out of the fridge and give them a good stir. If it looks too thick for your liking, add a splash of milk to loosen it up. It should look rich and chocolaty!
6. Add Toppings
Top your oats with extra chopped walnuts and a sprinkle of chocolate chips for a little more indulgence. You can also add other toppings like fruits or nut butter if you like.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Enjoy your Brownie Batter Overnight Oats straight from the jar for a quick breakfast on-the-go, or transfer them to a bowl for a sit-down treat. Either way, it’s a delicious start to your day!
These overnight oats not only taste fantastic but are also nutritious and filling—perfectly satisfying your chocolate cravings in the morning!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats, but keep in mind that they will absorb liquid much faster and can lead to a mushier texture. If you prefer a firmer consistency, stick with old-fashioned rolled oats.
Can I Substitute Cocoa Powder with a Different Flavor?
Absolutely! If you’re not in the mood for chocolate, you can omit the cocoa powder and try adding cinnamon or vanilla extract instead. Just adjust the sweetener to taste for a different flavor profile!
How Long Do Leftovers Last?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give them a stir before eating, and feel free to add a splash of milk if they seem thick.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! Simply use plant-based milk and maple syrup instead of honey to keep it completely vegan. You can also skip the Greek yogurt or use a non-dairy alternative to keep everything plant-based.
