Red Velvet Overnight Oats bring a fun twist to your breakfast! With creamy oats mixed with cocoa and a hint of vanilla, they taste just like the beloved red velvet cake.
These oats are super easy to make—just mix and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, you’ll have a deliciously sweet breakfast waiting for you. Who knew healthy could be this tasty? 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are the base for your overnight oats. Use rolled oats for a smooth texture. If you prefer, quick oats can work too, but avoid steel-cut oats as they require longer cooking times.
Milk: You can use any milk you like—dairy, almond, oat, or soy work great! If you’re nut-free, go for oat milk or even coconut milk for a creamier taste.
Greek Yogurt: This adds a creamy texture and protein boost. If you’re vegan, coconut yogurt or any plant-based yogurt can be a good substitute.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder gives that chocolatey flavor. For a richer taste, you can try using Dutch-processed cocoa powder instead.
Beetroot Powder: This ingredient gives the beautiful red color. If you don’t have it, you can use natural red food coloring. You could also skip it for a chocolatey look, but the vibrant color is fun!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Consistency for Overnight Oats?
Getting the right texture is key! Here’s how to ensure your oats are creamy and not too thick:
- Mix the ingredients well. This ensures even distribution of liquid and dry components.
- Let the oats soak overnight, absorbing the moisture. This step is crucial for the oats and chia seeds to swell.
- If it seems too thick in the morning, stir in a splash of milk until you reach your desired creaminess.
Remember, the oats will continue to absorb liquid, so adjust as needed before serving!
Delicious Red Velvet Overnight Oats Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon beetroot powder or natural red food coloring (for vibrant red color)
- A pinch of salt
- Optional toppings: a dollop of Greek yogurt or cream cheese, chopped walnuts or pecans
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and requires at least 6 hours in the refrigerator to soak overnight. Perfect for a quick breakfast option that’s ready to go in the morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl or a jar, combine the rolled oats, cocoa powder, chia seeds, beetroot powder (or red food coloring), and a pinch of salt. Give it a good stir to blend all the dry ingredients well.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients:
Add the milk, Greek yogurt, maple syrup (or honey to sweeten), and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Stir everything together until fully combined, and the mixture takes on a lovely dark color.
3. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover the bowl or jar with a lid or plastic wrap, and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow the oats and chia seeds to absorb the liquid and soften.
4. Prepare for Serving:
In the morning, take your oats out and give them a hearty stir. If the mixture is too thick for your liking, simply add a splash of milk and mix until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Add Toppings and Enjoy:
Serve your red velvet overnight oats in a bowl or eat directly from the jar! Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or cream cheese for a creamy touch and sprinkle with chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch. Dive into your vibrant breakfast and enjoy!
This red velvet overnight oats recipe beautifully mirrors the flavors of classic red velvet cake while packing in nutrition from oats and chia seeds. It’s a delightful start to your day!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but keep in mind that the texture may be softer than using rolled oats. If you do use quick oats, they may not need as long to soak—about 4-5 hours in the refrigerator should suffice!
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use any plant-based yogurt or regular yogurt. For an even creamier texture, cream cheese can also work, particularly if you want that rich frosting flavor.
How Long Do Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Leftover red velvet overnight oats can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep them in an airtight container. If the oats thicken up too much, simply add a splash of milk when you’re ready to enjoy them again!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, use a plant-based yogurt, almond or oat milk, and substitute maple syrup for the honey. This will keep all the delicious flavors intact while making it suitable for a vegan diet.
