Chunky Monkey Overnight Oats are a yummy and easy breakfast to make! With bananas, chocolate, and peanut butter, they’re like dessert in a jar. Plus, you prepare them the night before!
I love waking up to this tasty treat! Just grab a spoon and enjoy. It’s the perfect way to start the day without any cooking—who doesn’t love a little chocolate in the morning? 🍌🍫
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: These give the best texture since they soak up the liquid well. You can swap them with quick oats, but they may become mushier. Steel-cut oats work too but need longer soaking time—consider cooking them for a bit.
Milk: I opt for almond or oat milk for a plant-based version, but any milk works well. Dairy milk provides a creamier texture. You can also use yogurt or nut milk for a lower-calorie option.
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and protein. If you’re dairy-free, try coconut yogurt or leave it out entirely and use a bit more milk instead. Personally, I love vanilla yogurt for added flavor!
Chia Seeds: They help thicken the oats and add healthy omega-3s. If you don’t have them, try flaxseeds or just omit them if you prefer a looser texture.
Peanut Butter: This is a must for that delicious nutty flavor. Almond butter or even sunflower seed butter make great substitutes. I love mixing in different nut butters for variety!
How Do I Get Perfectly Creamy Overnight Oats?
Achieving the right consistency for overnight oats is all about the soaking time and ingredient balance. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Make sure your oats are combined well with the liquid ingredients. Stir thoroughly to avoid clumping.
- Cover the bowl or jar well to prevent any drying out of the oats overnight.
- Adjust the liquid amount based on how thick you like your oats. If it’s too thick the next day, simply mix in a splash of milk!
- Don’t skimp on toppings! They add crunch and flavor, making each bite interesting.
Following these tips will surely give you a delicious and satisfying breakfast every time!
Chunky Monkey Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (vanilla or plain)
- 1 tbsp chia seeds (optional, for thickness and nutrition)
- 1 tbsp peanut butter
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1 small banana, sliced
- 2 tbsp chopped walnuts
- Additional banana slices, chopped walnuts, and chocolate chips for topping
- Drizzle of maple syrup or honey for topping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prepare the oats, and then let them soak overnight (or at least 4 hours). It’s a quick and easy breakfast, ready when you are in the morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
In a mixing bowl or a jar, combine the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds (if you’re using them), peanut butter, and honey or maple syrup. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and creamy.
2. Add the Goodies:
Next, fold in the mini chocolate chips, half of the sliced banana, and some chopped walnuts. This will distribute all those tasty flavors throughout the oats!
3. Chill Out:
Cover the container or jar and pop it in the fridge overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can let it chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for achieving the perfect texture.
4. Stir it Up:
The next morning, take your oats out of the fridge and give them a good stir. If it’s too thick for your liking, don’t hesitate to add a little splash of milk to loosen it up.
5. Add Toppings:
Now it’s time for the fun part! Top your oats with the remaining banana slices, some extra chopped walnuts, mini chocolate chips, and a drizzle of maple syrup or honey if you like it sweeter.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your Chunky Monkey Overnight Oats chilled and dig in! With the creamy peanut butter, sweet bananas, and chocolatey goodness, it’s a delightful way to kick-start your day!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats if that’s what you have on hand. However, keep in mind that they may become mushier due to their finer texture. Rolled oats offer a better chewiness, which many people prefer for overnight oats.
Can I Make These Overnight Oats Vegan?
Absolutely! To make the recipe vegan, simply substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt (like coconut or almond yogurt) and use maple syrup instead of honey. You can also use any plant-based milk.
How Long Do Leftover Overnight Oats Last?
Leftover overnight oats can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Just give them a stir before eating. If they seem too thick, add a little milk to loosen them up!
Can I Customize the Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to mix and match toppings based on your preferences. Try adding nuts, seeds, other fruits, or even a dollop of nut butter for extra flavor. Get creative!