Chocolate Coconut Overnight Oats are a tasty and easy breakfast. Made with creamy oats, rich cocoa, and sweet coconut, they’re a lovely treat to start your day!
These oats are perfect for lazy mornings. Just mix everything the night before, and breakfast is ready when you are! It’s like dessert for breakfast—who wouldn’t love that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: The foundation of the dish, rolled oats are both filling and nutritious. Steel-cut oats can be used, but they might need longer soaking. Instant oats can work too, but they will create a mushier texture.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder gives that rich chocolate flavor. If you want a sweeter option, you can use Dutch-processed cocoa. For a unique twist, consider using carob powder instead.
Coconut Milk: Full-fat coconut milk adds creaminess and flavor. You can substitute this with low-fat coconut milk or even oat milk for a lighter option, though it will change the flavor slightly.
Chia Seeds: These seeds thicken the oats while providing healthy omega-3 fatty acids. If you don’t have chia seeds, you can replace them with flaxseeds or simply omit them; the oats won’t be as thick.
Maple Syrup/Honey: This sweetener adds a touch of sweetness. Feel free to use agave nectar, or banana puree for a natural sweetness if you’re reducing sugar intake.
How Do I Ensure My Oats Are the Perfect Consistency?
The key to great overnight oats is the right soaking time and liquid ratio. For a creamy texture, it’s important to combine your ingredients well. Here’s how to achieve the perfect consistency:
- Mix dry ingredients thoroughly before adding liquids. This prevents clumping and ensures even flavor.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, but overnight is best! This allows oats and chia seeds to absorb the liquid fully.
- If the mixture seems too thick in the morning, stir in a splash of your preferred milk until you reach the desired consistency.
- Don’t forget that toppings can also affect texture. Crunchy toppings like nuts or cacao nibs add a great bite!
How to Make Chocolate Coconut Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (full fat for creaminess)
- 1/2 cup almond milk (or any preferred milk)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (adjust to sweetness preference)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons shredded unsweetened coconut (plus extra for garnish)
Optional Toppings:
- sliced banana
- cacao nibs or dark chocolate shavings
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll need to refrigerate it overnight or for at least 6 hours, so the oats can soak up all the delicious flavors. In total, it’s a quick prep and a great way to have a yummy breakfast ready for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl or jar, mix together the rolled oats, cocoa powder, chia seeds, shredded coconut, and a pinch of salt. Stir them well so that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients:
Pour in the coconut milk, almond milk, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until it’s fully combined and there are no dry spots visible. This mix will be quite thick, which is exactly what we want!
3. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover your bowl or jar with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the fridge. Leave it overnight or at least 6 hours so the oats and chia seeds can soak and absorb all that creamy goodness. This is where the magic happens!
4. Stir and Adjust Consistency:
In the morning, take your oats out of the fridge and give them a good stir. They should be thick and creamy. If they seem too thick, feel free to add a splash more milk until you reach your desired creaminess.
5. Serve and Top:
Spoon the chocolate coconut oats into serving jars or bowls. Add your favorite toppings like sliced banana, extra shredded coconut, or cacao nibs for that lovely crunch.
6. Enjoy Your Delicious Breakfast:
Serve chilled and dive into this rich, chocolatey, and delightful breakfast treat. It’s not just a meal; it’s a special way to start your day!
This recipe makes about 1 to 2 servings depending on how hungry you are. It’s perfect for meal prepping delicious breakfasts for the week ahead!
Can I Use Different Types of Milk?
Absolutely! While coconut milk adds a rich flavor, you can use any milk you prefer—like regular dairy milk, oat milk, or soy milk. Just keep in mind that the taste and creaminess may vary slightly with different options.
Can I Prepare These Oats Without Chia Seeds?
Yes, you can omit chia seeds if you don’t have them. They help thicken the mixture, but the oats will still absorb the liquid nicely. If you want a thicker texture, you might consider adding a little more oats instead!
How Long Do Leftovers Last?
Leftover overnight oats can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give them a good stir before serving again, and feel free to add a little more milk if they seem too thick!
Can I Add Other Flavorings?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with flavorings like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a tablespoon of peanut butter for a twist. You can also use different types of sweeteners or add-ins like nuts and seeds to customize your oats!
