Description
Chocolate Chia Overnight Oats are a rich and creamy breakfast option that combines the smoothness of oats with the indulgent flavor of chocolate. Made by mixing rolled oats, chia seeds, milk (or plant-based alternative), and a touch of cocoa powder or melted chocolate, this nutritious dish is left to soak overnight in the fridge. The chia seeds absorb the liquid, creating a pudding-like consistency that’s both filling and satisfying. You can top it off with fresh berries, nuts, or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness and crunch. Perfect for a quick, healthy breakfast or snack, it’s full of fiber, protein, and antioxidants, making it both delicious and nourishing!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make Chocolate Chia Overnight Oats:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats (ensure they are certified gluten-free if needed)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (ensure honey is halal if necessary)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any non-dairy milk of your choice)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips (optional)
- Pinch of sea salt (optional, to enhance flavor)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt (optional for extra creaminess)
Ingredient Highlights
- Rolled Oats: Oats are a great source of soluble fiber, which can help support digestive health and keep you full longer.
- Chia Seeds: These tiny seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and fiber, making them an excellent addition to any healthy diet.
- Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder gives the oats a rich chocolate flavor without any added sugars.
- Maple Syrup or Honey: A natural sweetener that enhances the flavor of the oats without the need for refined sugars.
- Almond Milk: A dairy-free, vegan alternative to milk, almond milk adds creaminess without being too heavy. You can swap it out for any plant-based milk like coconut or soy milk.
- Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt adds protein and a creamy texture to the oats, but you can leave it out for a dairy-free version.
- Mini Chocolate Chips: For an extra chocolatey finish, mini chocolate chips can be added to the mix or sprinkled on top before serving.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make the perfect Chocolate Chia Overnight Oats:
Prepare the Oats:
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl or mason jar, combine the rolled oats, chia seeds, cocoa powder, and a pinch of sea salt (if using). Stir to mix the dry ingredients together.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the almond milk and vanilla extract. Stir the mixture until everything is well combined. If you’re using Greek yogurt, add it at this stage and mix until smooth.
- Sweeten the Oats: Drizzle in maple syrup or honey and stir again. Adjust the sweetness to your liking, depending on how sweet you want your oats to be.
- Add Chocolate Chips: If you’re using mini chocolate chips, fold them into the mixture or save them to sprinkle on top the next morning.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the bowl or mason jar and place it in the refrigerator to soak overnight. The oats will absorb the liquid and soften, and the chia seeds will create a pudding-like consistency.
Serve the Oats:
- Stir and Serve: In the morning, give the oats a good stir to incorporate any liquid that may have settled. You can add a little more milk if you prefer a looser consistency.
- Top and Enjoy: Top your Chocolate Chia Overnight Oats with extra chocolate chips, sliced banana, berries, or nuts of your choice. Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 300-350 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 10g