Save Indulgent overnight oats inspired by the classic chunky monkey combination—rich cocoa, creamy peanut butter, and sweet banana—boosted with extra protein for a satisfying and delicious breakfast.
Save This easy breakfast solution requires no cooking and relies on a 6-to-8-hour chill to reach its signature thick and creamy texture. It is a fantastic option for meal prepping ahead of a busy week.
Ingredients
- Oats Base:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup unsweetened milk of choice (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or non-dairy yogurt)
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 scoop (about 30 g) chocolate or vanilla protein powder
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Mix-ins & Toppings:
- 1 medium ripe banana, sliced
- 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter, divided
- 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts
- 1 tablespoon mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a medium bowl or large jar, combine oats, milk, yogurt, chia seeds, cocoa powder, protein powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir well until fully combined.
- Step 2
- Fold in half the banana slices and 1 tablespoon peanut butter.
- Step 3
- Cover and refrigerate overnight (or at least 6 hours) until thick and creamy.
- Step 4
- In the morning, stir the oats and add more milk if needed for desired consistency.
- Step 5
- Divide between two bowls or jars. Top each with remaining banana slices, a drizzle of the remaining peanut butter, walnuts, and chocolate chips.
- Step 6
- Enjoy chilled.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure the protein powder and cocoa powder are fully incorporated without any dry clumps. Using old-fashioned rolled oats is key to achieving the right texture after the overnight soak.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a vegan version, use plant-based yogurt and protein powder. You can swap walnuts for pecans or omit them entirely for a nut-free option. Adjust the sweetness level by adding more or less maple syrup or honey to suit your preference.
Serviervorschläge
Serve the oats directly from the jar for a portable breakfast. If you prefer extra texture, top with granola or cacao nibs just before eating for a delightful crunch.
Save Each serving of these delicious oats provides 415 calories, 16g of fat, and 48g of carbohydrates, offering a balanced and indulgent start to your morning routine.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make these overnight oats vegan?
Absolutely. Use plant-based yogurt and milk, along with a vegan protein powder. Maple syrup works perfectly as a natural sweetener instead of honey.
- → How long do these oats last in the refrigerator?
These overnight oats stay fresh for up to 4-5 days when stored properly in an airtight container. The oats continue to soften and the flavors meld together beautifully over time.
- → What type of protein powder works best?
Both chocolate and vanilla protein powder complement the flavors well. Chocolate enhances the cocoa notes while vanilla adds a subtle sweetness that balances the rich ingredients.
- → Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Old-fashioned rolled oats provide the best texture. Quick oats may become too mushy after soaking overnight. Steel-cut oats require longer soaking time and more liquid.
- → Is the chilling time flexible?
While 6-8 hours yields optimal texture, these oats can be enjoyed after 4 hours. For the creamiest consistency, let them sit overnight. The oats continue to absorb liquid the longer they chill.
- → What nut-free substitutions can I use?
Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and omit walnuts or swap for pumpkin seeds. The chocolate banana flavor combination remains delicious without the nuts.