These Chocolate Raspberry Overnight Oats are a dream come true for breakfast lovers! With rich chocolate and sweet raspberries, they’re both tasty and filling.
I love how simple it is to prepare—just mix everything the night before, and it’s ready to grab in the morning. Perfect for busy days when I need a yummy start!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are essential for texture. They absorb the liquid and soften overnight. If you don’t have rolled oats, quick oats can work, but they’ll have a mushier texture. Steel-cut oats? Skip those; they need more cooking time.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder gives you that rich chocolate flavor. You can swap it for cacao powder if you prefer a less processed option. Just know that the taste might be a bit earthier and richer.
Chia Seeds: These are optional but help thicken the oats and add some healthy fats. If you don’t have them, you can skip them or replace with ground flaxseeds for a similar effect.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Use either sweetener to add flavor. For a lower-calorie option, you could also try stevia or erythritol. Just adjust the amount to your taste preferences!
Milk: Any milk works here! Almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk can all provide a nice balance. If you’re looking for creaminess, coconut milk is a great choice.
Raspberries: Fresh raspberries add a lovely tartness, but you can use frozen ones in a pinch. If you’re allergic or can’t find them, strawberries or blueberries can also make great substitutes.
How Do I Make the Oats Thick and Creamy?
Getting those oats the right texture is key to a satisfying breakfast. Here’s how to make them thick and creamy:
- Combine all dry ingredients first before adding the liquid. This gives even mixing and ensures the cocoa doesn’t clump.
- Chia seeds absorb liquid much quicker, so if you’re using them, let the mixture rest a bit before refrigerating. This gives them time to work their magic!
- If the oats are too thick in the morning, simply add a little more milk. Stir it in gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Now you’re all set for a delicious and simple breakfast! Enjoy your Chocolate Raspberry Overnight Oats!
How to Make Chocolate Raspberry Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for thickness)
- 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup fresh or frozen raspberries (plus extra for topping)
- Dark chocolate chunks or chips (for topping)
- Pinch of salt
Estimated Time Required:
This delicious breakfast takes about 10 minutes to prepare. Then, let it chill in the fridge overnight, or at least for 4 hours. When you wake up, it’s ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients:
In a medium bowl or a large jar, mix together the rolled oats, cocoa powder, and chia seeds (if you’re using them). Add the maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. This will create the base of your oats and give them a delicious chocolate flavor.
2. Add the Milk:
Pour in the milk and stir everything together well. Make sure all the dry ingredients are mixed into the liquid so that there are no clumps. It’s okay if it looks a bit runny; the oats will soak up the liquid overnight.
3. Fold in the Raspberries:
Gently fold in the raspberries, being careful not to squish them too much. This way, you’ll keep some whole pieces for a lovely burst of flavor in every bite.
4. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover the bowl or jar tightly and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight, so the oats can soak and become creamy.
5. Stir and Adjust Consistency:
In the morning, take your oats out of the fridge. Give them a good stir. If they appear too thick, don’t worry! Just add a splash of milk and mix until you get your desired consistency.
6. Add the Toppings:
Top your overnight oats with extra fresh raspberries and a sprinkle of dark chocolate chunks or chips. This not only makes it look beautiful but adds a delicious flavor contrast!
7. Enjoy Your Breakfast:
Your Chocolate Raspberry Overnight Oats are ready! Enjoy them chilled or at room temperature. They’re a tasty and nutritious way to start your day!
Can I Use Different Sweeteners in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap maple syrup or honey for agave syrup, coconut sugar, or even a sugar substitute like stevia. Just adjust the amounts to taste since some sweeteners can be stronger than others.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make these overnight oats vegan, simply use a plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk, and substitute maple syrup for honey. Everything else in the recipe is already vegan-friendly!
Can I Prep These Oats for More Than One Day?
Yes, you can prepare these oats in batches! They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just keep them in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Give them a little stir and add fresh toppings before serving!
What Should I Do if I Don’t Have Raspberries?
No problem! You can substitute raspberries with other berries like strawberries or blueberries, or even sliced bananas. Just keep in mind that different fruits may slightly change the flavor profile.