Brownie Batter Overnight Oats are a tasty way to kick-start your day! Packed with chocolatey goodness, these oats are made with cocoa powder, oats, and your favorite milk.
It feels like dessert for breakfast, and honestly, who wouldn’t want that? 😄 I love preparing them the night before; it’s so easy to grab and go in the morning!
For an extra treat, I sprinkle on some nuts or mini chocolate chips. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be excited for breakfast every day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Old-fashioned rolled oats: These are perfect for overnight oats because they soak up the liquid nicely. If you’re in a rush, you can use quick oats, but they might be a bit mushier.
Chia seeds: These add nutrition and thickening power. For a thicker option, you can use flaxseeds as a substitute. Just remember to grind them first for better absorption!
Unsweetened cocoa powder: This is essential for that chocolatey brownie flavor. You can use Dutch-processed cocoa for a milder taste if that’s what you prefer.
Milk: Any milk works here! Dairy, almond, oat, or coconut are all great options. If lactose-free is what you need, go for almond or coconut milk.
Greek yogurt: It adds creaminess. If you’d like to skip it, you can use a dairy-free yogurt or simply omit it entirely for a lighter version.
How Do I Get the Perfect Overnight Oats Texture?
Getting your overnight oats to the right texture is crucial for enjoying them! Here’s how to ensure they turn out just right:
- Use a jar or container with a tight lid to prevent spills while shaking or stirring.
- Mix the oats, chia seeds, and cocoa powder well before adding the wet ingredients. This helps distribute everything evenly.
- When mixing in the milk, aim for a balance. It should be creamy, but too thick can be hard to enjoy. Add a bit more milk in the morning if needed!
- Let them sit overnight. The longer they soak, the softer they become. Aim for at least 4 hours to really let them absorb the flavors.
Remember, everyone’s preference for oat texture can be different, so feel free to experiment until it’s just how you like it!
How to Make Brownie Batter Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup plain or vanilla Greek yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)
- Sliced banana, for topping
- Chopped nuts, for topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and you’ll need to let it chill in the fridge overnight or for at least 4 hours. In the morning, it’s ready to eat, making it a perfect grab-and-go breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
Start by taking a medium-sized jar or bowl, and combine the rolled oats, chia seeds, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt. Give it a good stir to mix everything together evenly.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients:
Next, stir in the vanilla extract, maple syrup (or honey), and milk. If you’re using Greek yogurt for an extra creamy texture, add that too! Mix all the ingredients together until well combined and smooth.
3. Mix in the Chocolate Chips:
Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips. This adds a delicious chocolatey surprise in every bite!
4. Refrigerate:
Cover your jar or bowl securely and pop it in the fridge. Let the oats soak overnight or for at least 4 hours. This will allow the oats and chia seeds to soften and absorb all the liquid.
5. Time to Enjoy!:
In the morning, give the oats a stir. If you find it’s thicker than you’d like, just add a splash of milk until it reaches your favorite consistency. Top with sliced bananas, extra chocolate chips, and chopped nuts if you wish.
6. Serve and Indulge:
Your Brownie Batter Overnight Oats are now ready! Serve them chilled and enjoy the rich, chocolatey flavor that feels like dessert for breakfast!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but keep in mind they may become softer and mushier than rolled oats. If you prefer a creamier texture, this can work well, but for that classic chewy bite, stick with rolled oats!
How Can I Make These Oats Vegan?
To make the Brownie Batter Overnight Oats vegan, simply replace honey with maple syrup and use a plant-based yogurt. Also, ensure that the milk you choose is dairy-free, like almond, soy, or oat milk!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can add extra milk before eating to refresh the texture if it thickens up too much.
Can I Add Other Mix-Ins or Toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with toppings like peanut butter, shredded coconut, or chopped fruits. You can also mix in nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrition—make it your own!