Coconut Overnight Oats are the perfect breakfast treat that you can prepare the night before! Just mix rolled oats with coconut milk, shredded coconut, and a hint of sweetness for a delightful start to your day.
It’s so simple to make, and I love waking up to a tasty breakfast ready to go—no cooking needed! Sometimes, I add some fresh fruit on top, and it feels like a tropical vacation in a bowl! 🌴🥥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are essential for the perfect creamy texture. If you’re gluten-free, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats!
Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk gives it a rich flavor. You can substitute with almond milk or another plant-based milk if you want a lighter option, but the creaminess might change.
Chia Seeds: They help thicken the oats. If you don’t have chia seeds, you can use flaxseeds, but the texture will differ slightly.
Shredded Coconut: I like unsweetened for a more natural taste. Sweetened versions may be used, but keep an eye on the added sugars.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Both sweeteners work great. For a vegan option, stick with maple syrup. You could also use agave syrup if preferred.
How Do I Ensure My Overnight Oats Are Creamy and Not Watery?
The secret to creamy overnight oats lies in the ratio of oats to liquid. Make sure you stick to the proportions. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Use rolled oats, not instant or quick oats, as they absorb liquid better.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly before refrigerating. Make sure oats and chia seeds are submerged.
- If you find the oats too thick in the morning, simply add a splash of coconut milk to reach your desired consistency.
How to Make Delicious Coconut Overnight Oats?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (full-fat for creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 2 tablespoons shredded coconut (unsweetened)
- 1-2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Toppings:
- Toasted coconut flakes (for topping)
- Optional: edible flower for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time plus at least 6 hours of chilling time in the fridge. It’s perfect for a quick breakfast! Just mix everything together, refrigerate overnight, and wake up to a delightful meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl or jar, combine the rolled oats, chia seeds, shredded coconut, and a pinch of salt. This will create a flavorful base for your overnight oats.
2. Add the Liquid Ingredients:
Pour in the creamy coconut milk and add the maple syrup (or honey) and vanilla extract. These ingredients will add sweetness and flavor to your oats.
3. Combine Thoroughly:
Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are mixed and that the oats and chia seeds are well submerged in the coconut milk. This step is key to achieving the right texture!
4. Refrigerate the Mixture:
Cover the bowl or jar with a lid or plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator overnight (or for at least 6 hours). This allows the oats and chia seeds to absorb the liquid and soften beautifully.
5. Prepare to Serve:
The next morning, give the oats a good stir. If you find the mixture is too thick, simply add a splash of coconut milk to loosen it to your desired creaminess.
6. Portion the Oats:
Spoon the overnight oats into serving bowls or glasses, creating a lovely presentation.
7. Add Toppings:
Top your oats with toasted coconut flakes for that extra crunch and garnish with an optional edible flower for a beautiful touch!
8. Enjoy!
Serve your coconut overnight oats chilled and savor the creamy, tropical flavors. It’s nutritious and will keep you full throughout the morning!
Can I Use Almond Milk Instead of Coconut Milk?
Absolutely! You can substitute almond milk or any other non-dairy milk for coconut milk. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess will differ, so it won’t have that rich coconut taste.
How Long Do These Overnight Oats Last in the Fridge?
These coconut overnight oats can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re in an airtight container. Before serving, you may want to add a splash of coconut milk if they’ve thickened too much.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your overnight oats by adding fruits like bananas, berries, or mangoes. Nuts and seeds can also be great additions for extra crunch and nutrition!
What If I Forgot to Soak Them Overnight?
No worries! If you forget to soak them overnight, you can let the mixture sit in the fridge for at least 30-60 minutes. The oats will still soften but might not be as creamy as when soaked overnight.
