Chocolate Coconut Overnight Oats are a yummy way to start your day! Creamy oats soaked in chocolate and topped with shredded coconut make breakfast feel like a treat.
I’ve found that making these is super easy! Just mix everything in a jar the night before, and they’re ready to go in the morning. Perfect for busy days, right?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are key for texture. They absorb milk easily and create that creamy feel. If you’re in a pinch, quick oats will work too, but they may be softer.
Chia Seeds: These add a nice thickness to the oats. If you can’t find chia seeds, try using flaxseeds, though they won’t thicken quite the same way.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa gives that rich chocolate flavor. For a more intense taste, you can use a dark cocoa powder. You can also skip cocoa for a vanilla version!
Coconut Milk: This adds creaminess and flavor. Almond milk is a great substitute, but if you want a bolder taste, try full-fat coconut milk.
Maple Syrup or Honey: I love maple syrup for its flavor. If you’re vegan, stick with maple syrup, or use agave syrup as an alternative.
How Do I Make the Perfect Overnight Oats?
Overnight oats may sound simple, but getting the right mix can be tricky. Here’s how to make them perfectly creamy and delicious.
- Mix dry ingredients first: Combining oats, chia seeds, cocoa powder, and salt before adding liquids helps ensure even distribution.
- Adjust liquid to taste: Start with the recommended amount of milk and water, but feel free to add more if you like creamier oats.
- Refrigerate for a solid 4-8 hours: This gives the oats and chia seeds time to fully absorb the liquid and expand. I recommend making these in the evening to enjoy in the morning.
- Stir in the morning: Sometimes they can get thick, so a little splash of additional milk can help bring it all together.
Chocolate Coconut Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk (can substitute almond or other milk)
- 1/4 cup water
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons shredded coconut (unsweetened)
- 1 tablespoon mini chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate (optional topping)
- Optional: chopped nuts for topping (e.g., almonds or walnuts)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 4 hours (or overnight) to chill in the fridge. The wait is worth it for a quick breakfast that’s ready to go in the morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium-sized jar or bowl, add the rolled oats, chia seeds, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to mix everything together. This ensures your flavors are evenly distributed.
2. Adding the Liquid Ingredients:
Pour in the maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, coconut milk, and water. Stir these wet ingredients into the dry mixture until everything is well combined. You want all the oats to be coated.
3. Refrigerating the Oats:
Cover the jar or bowl and place it in the fridge overnight, or for at least 4 hours. This step is crucial as it allows the oats and chia seeds to absorb the liquid and soften up for a creamy texture.
4. Preparing to Serve:
In the morning, check the consistency of your oats. If it’s too thick for your liking, add a splash more coconut milk and stir until smooth. It should be creamy and inviting!
5. Toppings Galore:
Top your oats with shredded coconut, mini chocolate chips, or chopped nuts for that extra crunch and flavor. Feel free to be creative with your toppings!
6. Ready to Enjoy!
Serve your delicious chocolate coconut overnight oats cold straight from the jar, or transfer them into a bowl. You can even enjoy them with fresh berries on the side for that extra burst of flavor. Enjoy your fantastic, nutritious breakfast!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can! Quick oats will give a softer texture and may absorb liquid faster, so keep an eye on the soaking time. They typically need around 3-4 hours instead of the full overnight soak.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Simply use maple syrup as your sweetener and ensure you’re using non-dairy milk, like coconut or almond milk. This makes the entire recipe completely plant-based!
How to Store Leftovers?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before eating, and add a splash of milk if it’s thickened too much.
Can I Customize the Toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite toppings, like nuts, seeds, or fruits. Fresh bananas, berries, or even a dollop of nut butter are all delicious options!
