These creamy chocolate peanut butter overnight oats are a match made in breakfast heaven! With smooth peanut butter, rich cocoa, and just a touch of sweetness, they’re simply yummy.
I love how easy they are! Just mix, let them sit overnight, and you wake up to a delicious treat. It’s like having dessert for breakfast, and who wouldn’t want that? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These oats are the base of your dish. They soak up the liquids well and create a nice creamy texture. If you don’t have rolled oats, quick oats will work too, but avoid instant oats as they can become mushy.
Cocoa Powder: This ingredient adds a rich chocolate flavor. Unsweetened cocoa powder is ideal, but you can also use Dutch-processed cocoa for a smoother taste. Don’t have cocoa? Try using carob powder for a different flavor.
Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter is preferred for a smooth consistency, but crunchy works too if you like a bit of texture. For nut-free options, sunflower seed butter or tahini are excellent alternatives.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Both sweeteners work well, but if you’re vegan, stick to maple syrup. Agave syrup is another good substitute. Adjust the sweetness to your taste—start with less and add more if needed.
Almond Milk: Almond milk gives a nice flavor but feel free to use any milk you like, such as oat, soy, or regular dairy milk. If you’re looking for a richer taste, canned coconut milk is a fantastic choice too.
How Do I Make Sure My Oats Are Creamy and Flavorful?
Getting the perfect creamy texture for your overnight oats is all about soaking them properly. Make sure to follow these steps:
- Mix dry ingredients really well before combining with the wet ones to ensure even flavor.
- When adding the wet mixture, stir until fully combined so every oat is coated.
- Store your oats in airtight containers. This helps them soak up more flavor and keeps them fresh.
- Refrigerate for the full time—overnight is best. If you’re in a hurry, aim for at least 4-6 hours.
- Before digging in, a healthy stir can help reincorporate any liquid that may have settled.
How to Make Creamy Chocolate Peanut Butter Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 2 cups almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ripe banana, sliced (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons cacao nibs (for garnish, optional)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. After that, you’ll need to let the oats chill in the fridge overnight or for at least 4-6 hours. This allows the flavors to mix together and the oats to soften, making a delicious, ready-to-eat breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl. Pour in the rolled oats, cocoa powder, and add a pinch of salt. Stir everything together so that the oats are coated with the cocoa and salt. This will give your overnight oats a yummy chocolate flavor!
2. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond milk, peanut butter, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract. Keep whisking until the mixture is nice and smooth—try to get the peanut butter fully mixed in for the best flavor!
3. Combine Both Mixtures:
Now, take the wet mixture and pour it into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir everything together until you can’t see any dry oats left. It’s okay if it looks a little thick; it will soak up the liquid while chilling!
4. Store and Chill:
Next, divide the mixture evenly into jars or containers. Make sure to seal them tightly with lids. Pop them into the fridge for at least 4-6 hours, or better yet, overnight. This is when the oats will soak up all the yummy flavors!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to eat, take the jars out of the fridge and give the oats a good stir. Top with sliced banana and sprinkle some cacao nibs on top if you’re using them. Now you have a delicious and nutritious breakfast ready to go—enjoy every spoonful!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
While you can use instant oats, they may turn out mushier than rolled oats. If you decide to use instant oats, reduce the soaking time to about 2-4 hours instead of overnight to maintain some texture.
What Can I Substitute for Peanut Butter?
If you’re allergic to peanuts or want a different flavor, you can use almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or any nut-free spread. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly, so choose one that complements chocolate well!
How Do I Store Leftover Overnight Oats?
Store any leftover oats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. They make for a convenient grab-and-go breakfast! Just stir well before eating, and you can add a splash more almond milk if they seem too thick.
Can I Add Other Toppings to This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can customize your overnight oats with various toppings such as chopped nuts, seeds, shredded coconut, berries, or even a dollop of yogurt. Just add them right before serving to keep them fresh and crunchy!
