Chocolate Banana Overnight Oats are a yummy and healthy breakfast option. Just mix oats, milk, cocoa, and bananas, then let them sit overnight in the fridge. Super simple!
Who wouldn’t love waking up to chocolatey goodness? I sometimes add a sprinkle of nuts for that extra crunch. It’s such a fun way to start the day!
I enjoy making these oats the night before; breakfast is ready to go in the morning! Plus, they keep me full and satisfied. Perfect for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are the star of this dish, giving it a lovely texture. If you’re in a pinch, quick oats can work too. However, avoid instant oats as they can get mushy.
Milk: You can use any milk you prefer, whether it’s cow’s milk, almond, oat, or coconut milk. I enjoy almond milk for its light flavor. If you’re looking for a creamier option, choose full-fat coconut milk.
Banana: Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and creaminess. If you have a banana allergy, try pureed apples or pumpkin for a different but tasty flavor.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa is essential for that chocolate kick! If you want a sweeter option, use chocolate-flavored protein powder instead.
Chia Seeds: They’re optional but great for adding fiber and thickening the oats. Flax seeds can work as a substitute if you prefer.
How Do I Make Sure My Overnight Oats Are Creamy?
Achieving the perfect creamy texture in your overnight oats is all about the right balance of ingredients. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Use a 1:1 ratio of oats to milk as a base. This helps the oats soak up the liquid properly.
- If using chia seeds, remember they absorb liquid too, so you might need a bit more milk to achieve your desired consistency.
- Let the oats soak for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for maximum creaminess.
- In the morning, if your oats seem too thick, simply stir in a little more milk until you reach your preferred texture.
How to Make Chocolate Banana Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/2 ripe banana, mashed
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon chia seeds (optional)
- 1-2 teaspoons sweetener (honey, maple syrup, or agave), optional
- A pinch of salt
- Sliced banana, for topping
- Dark chocolate chunks or chips, for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and requires at least 4 hours in the fridge to set, but overnight is best. So, get it ready the night before, and your breakfast will be all ready to go in the morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a medium bowl or jar, start by adding the rolled oats, milk, mashed banana, cocoa powder, chia seeds (if you’re using them), sweetener, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until well combined. You want to make sure the cocoa powder is nicely mixed in!
2. Refrigerating:
Once everything is mixed, cover the bowl or jar with a lid or plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator and let it chill overnight—or at least for 4 hours. This step lets the oats soak up all that creamy goodness!
3. Stirring and Serving:
In the morning, take your oats out of the fridge and give them a good stir. If they seem too thick, don’t worry! Just add a splash of milk and stir until you reach your desired texture. If you prepared them in advance, you can transfer your oats to a nice serving jar or bowl.
4. Adding the Toppings:
Now comes the fun part! Top your delicious overnight oats with fresh banana slices and sprinkle on some dark chocolate chunks or chips. This will add extra flavor and texture.
5. Enjoy!
Take a moment to admire your creation and dig in! These Chocolate Banana Overnight Oats are not just delicious; they’re a fantastic, quick breakfast that’s ready to fuel your day.
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can! Quick oats will work, but keep in mind they may absorb liquid faster and result in a softer texture. Adjust the soaking time to avoid overly mushy oats.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Overnight Oats?
You can store leftover overnight oats in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep them in an airtight container. Stir well before eating and add a splash of milk if they seem too thick.
Can I Use Other Types of Sweeteners?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any sweetener you prefer, such as agave, maple syrup, or even a sugar substitute like stevia. Just adjust the amount to taste!
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Definitely! You can customize your overnight oats with various toppings. Consider adding nuts, seeds, shredded coconut, or even a dollop of nut butter for extra flavor and nutrition!
