This overnight oats recipe is a perfect blend of creamy, sweet, and indulgent flavors, all packed into a quick and easy breakfast. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a nourishing and satisfying meal that’s ready when you wake up. The combination of rolled oats, almond butter (or peanut butter), and mini chocolate chips creates a comforting treat, while chia seeds or flaxseeds offer extra creaminess. It’s an ideal make-ahead breakfast for busy mornings, requiring no cooking at all. Plus, it’s customizable to suit any dietary needs and preferences, making it a go-to option for everyone.
Ingredients
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1 cup rolled oats
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1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
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2 tablespoons almond butter or peanut butter
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1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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½ teaspoon cinnamon
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1 tablespoon chia seeds or flaxseeds (optional, for thickness)
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1 tablespoon mini chocolate chips
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1 tablespoon crushed nuts (walnuts or pecans, optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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In a medium-sized bowl or mason jar, combine rolled oats, milk, almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Stir well to distribute the flavors evenly.
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For a thicker consistency, add chia seeds or flaxseeds. These seeds absorb moisture and create a creamier texture overnight.
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Mix in mini chocolate chips and crushed nuts, ensuring they are well distributed throughout the oats.
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Cover the jar or bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight, to allow the oats to soften and absorb the flavors.
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Before serving, stir the oats to combine. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
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Top with extra chocolate chips, a drizzle of almond butter, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra treat-like experience.
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Enjoy straight from the jar or serve in a bowl!
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 1 serving
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Prep time: 5 minutes
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Refrigeration time: At least 4 hours (ideally overnight)
Variations
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Dairy-Free: Use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk instead of dairy milk.
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Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats for a completely gluten-free breakfast.
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Nut-Free: Swap the almond butter for sunflower seed butter or tahini for a nut-free version.
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High-Protein: Stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or a scoop of protein powder to increase the protein content.
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Low-Sugar: Skip the maple syrup and use mashed banana instead for natural sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
Store your overnight oats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The oats can be eaten cold straight from the fridge or warmed in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. If they become too thick after refrigerating, simply add a splash of milk and stir to reach your desired consistency.
FAQs
How long do overnight oats need to sit in the fridge?
Overnight oats should sit in the fridge for at least 4 hours, but it’s best to let them sit overnight to allow the oats to soften and fully absorb the liquid.
Can I make overnight oats with water instead of milk?
Yes, you can use water instead of milk. However, using milk (dairy or non-dairy) will make the oats creamier and more flavorful.
Can I add protein powder to overnight oats?
Yes! You can easily mix in a scoop of protein powder to increase the protein content of your overnight oats.
Are overnight oats safe to eat if left in the fridge for more than a day?
Overnight oats can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, it’s best to eat them within 2 days for the best flavor and texture.
Can I make a big batch of overnight oats?
Yes, you can make a larger batch and store individual servings in airtight containers for convenience. Just be sure to stir well before serving.
Can I use a different nut butter for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute almond butter with peanut butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter, depending on your preference or dietary needs.
What are chia seeds used for in overnight oats?
Chia seeds absorb liquid and expand, creating a thicker, creamier texture. They also provide a healthy dose of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
Can I add fruit to my overnight oats?
Yes, you can add fresh or dried fruit such as berries, bananas, or raisins to your overnight oats. Add them in the morning just before serving.
Can I make overnight oats in advance for the whole week?
Yes, you can prepare overnight oats for several days and store them in individual containers. Just ensure that they stay in the fridge and are eaten within 3 days for freshness.
Are overnight oats gluten-free?
Regular rolled oats are naturally gluten-free, but it’s important to use certified gluten-free oats to ensure there is no cross-contamination if you are sensitive to gluten.
Conclusion
This overnight oats recipe is a delicious, hassle-free breakfast that you can prepare in minutes and enjoy the next day. It’s a versatile, healthy option that can be customized to suit your taste and dietary needs. Whether you prefer it sweet or savory, with or without nuts, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your breakfast rotation. Enjoy it as is or get creative with different add-ins — the possibilities are endless!
Print
Overnight Oats with Chocolate Chips and Almond Butter
- Total Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
- Yield: 1 serving
Description
This Overnight Oats with Almond Butter & Chocolate Chips recipe is the perfect breakfast for busy mornings! Made with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, almond butter (or peanut butter), and mini chocolate chips, it’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The oats soak overnight, creating a creamy texture that’s not only delicious but also customizable with various add-ins. Try this healthy, customizable, and no-cook breakfast for a quick, satisfying start to your day!
Ingredients
1 cup rolled oats
1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
2 tablespoons almond butter or peanut butter
1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon chia seeds or flaxseeds (optional, for thickness)
1 tablespoon mini chocolate chips
1 tablespoon crushed nuts (walnuts or pecans, optional)
Instructions
In a medium-sized bowl or a mason jar, combine rolled oats, milk, almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Stir well to distribute the flavors evenly.
If you like thicker oats, add chia seeds or flaxseeds, as they absorb moisture and create a creamier texture overnight.
Mix in mini chocolate chips and crushed nuts, ensuring they are well distributed throughout the oats.
Cover the jar or bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight, to allow the oats to soften and absorb the flavors.
Before serving, give the oats a good stir. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
Top with extra chocolate chips, a drizzle of almond butter, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra treat-like experience.
Enjoy straight from the jar or in a bowl!
Notes
Dairy-Free: Use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk instead of dairy milk.
Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oats for a completely gluten-free breakfast.
Nut-Free: Swap the almond butter for sunflower seed butter or tahini for a nut-free version.
High-Protein: Stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or a scoop of protein powder to increase the protein content.
Low-Sugar: Skip the maple syrup and use mashed banana instead for natural sweetness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: None (overnight refrigeration)
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: American
