These Chocolate Coconut Overnight Oats are a tasty breakfast treat! With creamy oats, rich chocolate, and a hint of coconut, they’re a sweet way to start your day.
I love preparing them the night before—just mix ingredients and let them chill. It’s like waking up to dessert! Who doesn’t want chocolate for breakfast? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are the base of your overnight oats. They soak up the liquid, becoming creamy. If you’re looking for a quicker option, you can use instant oats, but they might get a bit mushy.
Coconut Milk: For a rich, creamy flavor, coconut milk is a star here. You can switch it up with almond milk, soy milk, or any milk you prefer, though the flavor will change a bit.
Chia Seeds: They help thicken the oats and add a nice texture. If you’re out of chia seeds, flaxseeds work as a good substitute, providing similar health benefits.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa gives that deep chocolate flavor. If you want a sweeter touch right from the start, consider using chocolate protein powder instead.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Sweeteners can be adjusted based on taste. Agave syrup or stevia are great alternatives if you’re looking for a lower-calorie option.
How Do You Achieve the Best Texture for Overnight Oats?
The key to perfect overnight oats is the soaking time. This allows oats and chia seeds to absorb the liquid, resulting in a creamy texture. Here’s how:
- Mix all ingredients well before refrigerating—this helps distribute flavors.
- Cover tightly to prevent the oats from drying out in the fridge.
- Upon waking, if the oats are too thick for your liking, simply add a bit more coconut milk or water to achieve the desired creaminess.
- For an even better texture, consider letting them sit out for a few minutes after taking them from the fridge before enjoying.
Chocolate Coconut Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup coconut milk (unsweetened or sweetened, per preference)
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1-2 tbsp maple syrup or honey (to taste)
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tbsp shredded coconut (plus extra for topping)
- 1-2 tbsp mini dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate (plus extra for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time. You’ll mix all the ingredients, then it’s just a matter of letting them chill in the refrigerator overnight (or for at least 4-6 hours) to let the oats soak up all that creamy goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base Ingredients:
In a medium bowl or jar, pour in the rolled oats, coconut milk, chia seeds, cocoa powder, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. These ingredients will come together to create a deliciously rich base.
2. Mix It Up:
Use a spoon or a small whisk to stir all the ingredients well. You want everything to be thoroughly mixed so that the cocoa powder is evenly distributed and there are no dry spots. This will ensure every bite is chocolatey and tasty!
3. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover the bowl or jar with a lid or plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator and let it chill overnight. This soaking time helps the oats and chia seeds absorb the liquid, thickening the mixture into a creamy delight by morning.
4. The Morning Routine:
When you wake up, take your oats from the fridge and give them a good stir. If you find it’s too thick for your taste, simply add a splash of coconut milk to reach your desired texture.
5. Top It Off:
Serve your oats in a bowl or keep them in the jar. Top them off with shredded coconut and chocolate chips. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, sprinkle on some extra chocolate nibs or coconut shreds for that perfect finishing touch.
6. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your rich, creamy chocolate coconut overnight oats straight from the jar or in a bowl! It’s a delicious and nutritious way to kickstart your day.
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but be aware that they will absorb the liquid more quickly and may yield a softer texture. If you prefer a creamier result without any chewiness, quick oats can work well!
How Do I Store Leftover Overnight Oats?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give them a good stir before eating, and you can add a splash more coconut milk if needed to refresh the texture!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is already vegan-friendly since it uses coconut milk and maple syrup. Just make sure to use dairy-free dark chocolate for the toppings if you add chocolate chips.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor or Nutrients?
Feel free to customize! You can mix in fruits like sliced bananas or berries, or add nuts and seeds for extra crunch. A dash of cinnamon or even a spoonful of nut butter goes a long way in adding variety and flavor!
