Chocolate Raspberry Overnight Oats are a yummy way to start your day! They mix rich chocolate with sweet, tart raspberries, all nestled in creamy oats. Just dream about it overnight!
Prepare it the night before, and breakfast is ready when you are—easy peasy! I love adding a sprinkle of extra berries on top for a fresh kick. Who said morning meals can’t be fun? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are perfect for overnight oats as they soften nicely. If you don’t have rolled oats, quick oats can work too, but they might be a bit mushy. Steel-cut oats are not recommended, as they need longer cooking time.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder gives a rich chocolate flavor. If you prefer, you can use carob powder for a different taste, or even a sweetened cocoa mix, just adjust the sweetness accordingly.
Chia Seeds: These help thicken the oats and add nutrition. If you don’t have chia seeds, you can use flaxseeds, but grind them first for better absorption. You can skip them if you’re in a pinch, but the texture will be different.
Milk: Use any milk you like—dairy or plant-based. Almond or oat milk is my personal favorite for flavor. If you’re non-dairy, coconut milk will add a nice creaminess too!
Raspberries: Fresh raspberries are lovely, but frozen ones work just as well. If they’re not available, mixed berries or even sliced strawberries can be a delicious substitute.
How Do You Get the Right Texture for Overnight Oats?
The texture of overnight oats is crucial for enjoyment. You want them creamy but not too thick. Here’s how you can achieve that:
- Combine oats, cocoa, and chia in a bowl or jar first. This helps distribute dry ingredients evenly.
- When adding wet ingredients, stir right after each addition to mix thoroughly.
- After soaking overnight, if it feels thick, don’t hesitate to add a little extra milk. Stir well until it reaches a creamy consistency.
Remember, letting them soak overnight is key! This allows the oats and chia seeds to absorb the liquid and soften, giving you the perfect breakfast treat.
Chocolate Raspberry Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based, e.g., almond, oat milk)
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen raspberries, plus extra for topping
- 1 tablespoon chocolate chips or chocolate sauce (optional for drizzling)
- Fresh mint leaves (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful breakfast takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll need to let it chill for at least 6 hours or overnight, so it’s perfect for making the night before. Just grab it in the morning, and you’re ready to go!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a medium-sized bowl or jar, mix together the rolled oats, cocoa powder, and chia seeds. Stir them thoroughly to ensure everything is well combined.
2. Add Wet Ingredients:
Pour in the maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and milk. Make sure to stir this mix well so all the ingredients blend nicely together, turning into a rich chocolate concoction.
3. Fold in the Raspberries:
Gently add the raspberries to the mixture, being careful not to crush them too much. We want to keep some of those beautiful berry shapes!
4. Refrigerate:
Cover the bowl or seal the jar with a lid. Place it in the fridge overnight, or for at least 6 hours, to let the oats soak up the liquids and flavors.
5. Give It a Stir:
The next morning, take your oats out and give them a good stir. If they seem too thick for your liking, feel free to add a splash more milk until they’re at your preferred consistency.
6. Serve and Top:
Spoon the lovely oats into individual jars or bowls. Top with extra fresh raspberries, and if you want an extra treat, drizzle some chocolate sauce or sprinkle chocolate chips on top. Adding mint leaves for a fresh touch is a nice bonus!
7. Enjoy:
Dig in and savor your creamy, chocolatey, raspberry-filled breakfast. It’s a delicious way to kickstart your morning!
This recipe creates a creamy, chocolate-infused base with a fresh burst of raspberry, perfect for a healthy, delicious start to your day.
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats, but keep in mind that they will soak up the liquid faster and may result in a mushier texture. If you prefer a chewier bite, stick with rolled oats for the best results.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Overnight Oats?
Leftover overnight oats can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. If you notice they get too thick, just add a splash of milk when you’re ready to eat!
What If I Don’t Have Chia Seeds?
No problem! You can omit the chia seeds, but you won’t get the same thickening effect. Alternatively, ground flaxseeds can be used as a substitute.
Can I Use Different Fruits?
Absolutely! While raspberries are delicious, you can mix it up with other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or bananas. Just adjust the sweetness based on the fruit you choose!
