Chocolate Overnight Oats
Published on January 16, 2026
Quick Summary
These Chocolate Overnight Oats are rich, creamy, and taste like dessert while still being a nourishing breakfast. Made with cocoa powder, oats, chia seeds, and Greek yogurt, they’re easy to prep ahead and perfect for busy mornings, meal prep, or a healthy snack. Naturally sweetened and endlessly customizable with your favorite toppings.
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Easy Chocolate Overnight Oats (A Healthy Make-Ahead Breakfast)
If you’ve ever struggled to eat breakfast in the morning, or just want something easy, healthy, and a little more exciting than plain oatmeal, these chocolate overnight oats are for you.
I’ve been making overnight oats for years, and this chocolate version is a favorite at my house. My kids love that it feels like dessert for breakfast (and I love that it’s actually nourishing and filling). With protein from Greek yogurt and fiber from oats and chia seeds, it keeps you satisfied and ready for the day. The texture is perfectly creamy, and the rich chocolate flavor makes it feel extra special.
This recipe is also incredibly easy to customize. Add berries, banana slices, mini chocolate chips, coconut, or a drizzle of nut butter…whatever you’re craving or have on hand.
While it’s perfect for busy mornings, these chocolate overnight oats are just as good for an afternoon snack, post-practice fuel, or even a healthier dessert when a chocolate craving hits.
Whether you’re feeding kids, prepping breakfasts for the week, or just trying to make mornings easier, this is one recipe you’ll want to keep stocked in your fridge.
Ingredients You Need (with Helpful Notes)
- Milk: I use unsweetened almond milk, but you can use any milk you love: cashew, oat, or dairy milk all work well.
- Greek Yogurt: Adds creaminess and protein. If you prefer dairy-free or vegan, you can use more milk or a plant-based yogurt.
- Maple Syrup: Naturally sweetens the oats without overpowering the chocolate. You can adjust the sweetness to taste.
- Vanilla Extract: Just a splash!
- Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder for a deep, rich chocolate flavor.
- Chia Seeds: Help thicken the oats and add fiber and healthy fats.
- Flaky Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and makes the chocolate flavor pop.
- Old Fashioned Oats: Rolled oats give the best texture. Avoid quick oats, which can get mushy. If you need the oats to be gluten-free, make sure you use gluten-free oats.
- Toppings: Mini chocolate chips, fresh berries, banana slices, nut butter, coconut, or chopped nuts are all delicious.
Tips for Making the Best Chocolate Overnight Oats
- Whisk the wet ingredients well before adding the oats to ensure the cocoa powder fully dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
- Stir thoroughly after adding the oats and chia seeds so everything is evenly combined.
- Let them chill long enough, at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for the creamiest texture.
- Adjust the consistency before serving with a splash of milk if needed.
- Add chocolate protein powder to make these oats extra filling. Reduce the cocoa powder slightly and whisk in one scoop of chocolate protein powder. You may need an extra splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Add your favorite toppings, that’s the fun part! Mini chocolate chips, banana slices, berries, or a drizzle of nut butter all make them extra special.
- Warm Them Up! Not a fan of cold oats? No problem. Just warm them in the microwave in short intervals, stirring and adding a splash of milk as needed.
How to Store Overnight Oats
Store the oats in airtight jars or containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days. This makes them perfect for meal prep, just grab, stir, add toppings, and enjoy.
Chocolate Overnight Oats
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk, or milk of your choice
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, or sub with more milk or plant based yogurt
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of flaky salt
- 1 1/2 cups old fashioned oats
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- Topping suggestions: mini chocolate chips, berries, banana slices, nut butter, etc.
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, cocoa powder, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
- Stir in the oats and chia seeds until fully combined.
- Divide the mixture evenly between 4 jars, secure lids, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Stir before serving. You can add a splash of milk if you prefer a thinner consistency. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
Have you tried this recipe?
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