These Almond and Dark Chocolate Overnight Oats are a yummy way to start your day! With creamy oats, crunchy almonds, and rich dark chocolate, they make breakfast feel special.
Making them is a breeze—just mix, chill overnight, and voilà! I love grabbing a jar in the morning for a quick and tasty breakfast. It’s like dessert for breakfast, and who can say no to that? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Essential for the base, rolled oats are key for that creamy texture. You can swap them with quick oats, but note that the texture will be smoother. Steel-cut oats are not recommended as they take longer to soften.
Almond Milk: I love almond milk for its nutty flavor. If you have dairy allergies, coconut milk is a great alternative. Regular dairy milk will also work perfectly if you’re not vegan.
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and protein. You can skip it if you prefer a dairy-free option or use coconut yogurt for a vegan version. Silken tofu is another fun substitution for that smooth consistency.
Chia Seeds: Not only do they help thicken the oats, but they also add fiber and omega-3s! If you don’t have chia seeds, you can substitute with ground flaxseeds, but they won’t thicken the oats quite the same way.
Almond Butter: It provides nuttiness and creaminess. Cashew or peanut butter are good alternatives if you prefer a different nutty flavor.
Sweeteners: I use maple syrup, but honey works as well. Agave nectar or a sugar substitute can be used if you want to reduce sugar.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Texture for Overnight Oats?
The secret to creamy overnight oats lies in the right ratio of oats to liquid. Ideally, use 1 part oats to 1 part liquid. Start with rolled oats as they soak up liquids well without getting mushy. Here’s how to ensure the best texture:
- Combine all ingredients thoroughly to avoid clumps.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight—this allows the oats and chia seeds to plump up nicely.
- In the morning, if it’s too thick, simply add a little almond milk or water until you reach your desired consistency.
Experiment with the soaking time; some people prefer only a few hours for a chewier texture!
Almond And Dark Chocolate Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- 1 tbsp almond butter
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- 2 tbsp chopped almonds, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tbsp dark chocolate chunks or dark chocolate chips, plus extra for garnish
- Dark chocolate syrup or melted dark chocolate for drizzling (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 6 hours to chill in the fridge overnight. It’s perfect for a quick and healthy breakfast that’s ready when you are!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl or jar, add the rolled oats, almond milk, Greek yogurt (if using), almond butter, chia seeds, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. This is where the magic begins!
2. Mix Well:
Stir everything together until it’s all well-mixed. You want the almond butter and chia seeds to be evenly spread throughout the oats so every bite is delicious!
3. Add Crunch:
Gently fold in the chopped almonds and dark chocolate chunks. This will add extra texture and flavor that you’ll enjoy in the morning!
4. Chill Overnight:
Cover the bowl or seal the jar. Place it in the refrigerator and let it chill overnight or for at least 6 hours. This helps the oats and chia seeds soak up the liquid and soften perfectly.
5. Morning Mix:
When you’re ready to eat, take it out of the fridge and give it a good stir. If it seems a little thick, add a splash of almond milk to loosen it up!
6. Time to Garnish:
Top with some additional chopped almonds, dark chocolate chunks, and if you’d like, a drizzle of dark chocolate syrup or melted dark chocolate for that extra indulgence.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your overnight oats chilled and enjoy a scrumptious, creamy, and nutty breakfast that feels like a treat!
This recipe perfectly balances the satisfying creaminess of soaked oats and almond butter with the delightful crunch of nuts and the rich flavor of dark chocolate. A nutritious and indulgent start to your day awaits! Enjoy!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats, but keep in mind that they will absorb liquid more quickly and might result in a mushier texture. If you prefer a creamier consistency, stick with rolled oats for the best results!
How Long Do the Overnight Oats Last in the Fridge?
The almond and dark chocolate overnight oats can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Just swap the Greek yogurt for a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt, and use maple syrup instead of honey. The recipe is already dairy-free with almond milk, making it a great vegan option!
What Can I Use Instead of Almond Butter?
If you don’t have almond butter on hand, you can easily substitute it with peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor. Each nut butter brings its own distinct taste, so you can experiment to find your favorite!
