Chocolate Banana Overnight Oats are a yummy breakfast that you can make ahead of time. Just mix oats, milk, cocoa powder, and sliced bananas for a chocolatey treat!
I love waking up to this tasty mix! It’s like having dessert for breakfast, and it keeps me full until lunch. Just grab a spoon, and enjoy! 🍌🍫
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are the base for your overnight oats. Steel-cut oats can be used, but they need more soaking time. I like rolled oats for their soft texture after soaking!
Chia Seeds: They help thicken the oats and add nutrition. If you’re out, flaxseeds can work too. Just keep in mind they won’t thicken as much.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa adds a nice chocolate flavor. You can swap it with carob powder if you prefer a different taste. Just adjust the sweetness accordingly.
Milk: Use any milk you like. Almond, soy, or coconut milk are great plant-based options. I often go for almond milk for a subtle nutty flavor!
Banana: A ripe banana adds natural sweetness. If you don’t have bananas, a bit of applesauce can be a good substitute to keep the oats moist.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Consistency for My Overnight Oats?
The key to creamy overnight oats is balancing the dry and wet ingredients. After mixing everything, you want to ensure they are well combined so the oats absorb the milk properly overnight.
- Start with a good mix of oats, chia seeds, and cocoa in a bowl or jar.
- Add your mashed banana and the milk. Stir well until there are no dry bits left.
- If you find the mixture too thick the next morning, just add a bit more milk and stir!
Getting this right will give you a delightful, creamy breakfast that’s simply delicious! Enjoy your day with a yummy start!
How to Make Chocolate Banana Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 small ripe banana (mashed), plus extra for topping
- Pinch of salt
For Topping:
- Greek yogurt or whipped cream (for topping, optional)
- Chocolate chips or chunks (for topping)
- Cocoa powder (for dusting)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This simple recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time. Then, it needs to chill overnight or for at least 4 hours to let the oats soften. So, you’ll have a delicious breakfast ready to go in the morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium mixing bowl or jar, combine the rolled oats, chia seeds, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to evenly mix these dry ingredients. This will ensure that the flavors are distributed throughout your oats.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients:
Now, add the mashed ripe banana, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, and milk to the dry mixture. Stir thoroughly until all the ingredients are well incorporated. The banana will bring a nice sweetness and creaminess to the mixture!
3. Refrigerate Overnight:
Pour the mixture into a jar or container with a lid. Seal it tightly and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours. This allows the oats and chia seeds to absorb the liquid and soften, making for a deliciously creamy breakfast.
4. Stir and Adjust Consistency:
The next morning, give the oats a good stir. If you find that the mixture is too thick, simply add a splash of milk to loosen it to your desired consistency. It should be creamy and smooth!
5. Add Toppings:
Top your overnight oats with slices of fresh banana, a dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped cream, a sprinkle of cocoa powder, and chocolate chips or chunks. You can get creative with the toppings based on your preferences!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Chocolate Banana Overnight Oats chilled directly from the jar or transfer to a bowl if you prefer. Enjoy the rich, chocolaty flavor and the freshness of banana for a perfect breakfast!
This recipe guarantees a delightful start to your day, filled with yummy flavors and nutritious ingredients!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats, but keep in mind they will absorb liquid faster and result in a softer texture. You may want to reduce the soaking time to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
Can I Prepare This Recipe for Meal Prep?
Absolutely! These overnight oats are perfect for meal prep. You can divide the recipe into individual jars for grab-and-go breakfasts throughout the week. Just store them in the fridge for up to 5 days.
What Can I Use Instead of Chia Seeds?
If you don’t have chia seeds, you can replace them with flaxseeds or simply omit them. However, chia seeds help thicken the oats and add a nutritional boost, so consider buying them for future recipes!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give them a quick stir and add more milk if needed when you’re ready to eat. This keeps them fresh and delicious!
