Chocolate Chip Overnight Oats

Name: Chocolate Chip Overnight Oats
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1/2 cup rolled oats; 1 cup unsweetened almond milk; 2 tablespoons chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; Sliced banana; Chopped nuts; Additional chocolate chips; Chia seeds

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love starting my mornings with a bowl of Chocolate Chip Overnight Oats. Not only are they incredibly easy to prepare, but they are also a delightful treat that feels indulgent yet healthy. The combination of creamy oats mixed with rich chocolate chips and a hint of vanilla is simply irresistible. I often make a batch the night before, which allows me to enjoy a nutritious breakfast on busy mornings without any hassle. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your meal prep routine.

Created by

Morgan Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-20T01:34:11.204Z

When I first discovered the world of overnight oats, I was amazed at how something so simple could pack such flavor and nutrition. I started experimenting with various flavor combinations, and the Chocolate Chip Overnight Oats quickly became my favorite. The key is to use the right balance of oats and liquid, ensuring they absorb just enough to be creamy without being mushy. I also love adding a touch of nut butter for added richness.

Since then, I’ve made these every week, adjusting the sweetness and toppings based on what I have available. The best part is waking up to a breakfast that’s ready to go! Pair it with your favorite fruits or enjoy it as-is for a satisfying morning pick-me-up.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor in every bite
Customizable to fit your taste preferences
Perfect for on-the-go breakfasts

      

The Role of Oats and Liquid

Choosing the right type of oats is essential for achieving the desired texture in your Chocolate Chip Overnight Oats. Rolled oats are ideal here, as they absorb the liquid well while still maintaining a slight chewiness. Avoid instant oats, as they can become mushy when soaked overnight. The unsweetened almond milk not only adds creaminess but also balances the sweetness from chocolate chips and honey or maple syrup. For a creamier consistency, you can replace a portion of the almond milk with yogurt or a dairy alternative like coconut milk.

To ensure your oats have the best flavor, letting them soak allows the rolled oats to swell, absorbing the almond milk and any flavorings added. Aim for a minimum soak time of four hours, but best results come from overnight chilling. This longer soak lets the oats become fully tender and allows the chocolate chips to infuse their flavor throughout the mixture, making each bite rich and satisfying.

Personalizing Your Oats

One of the joys of making Chocolate Chip Overnight Oats is the endless customization options. Feel free to experiment with different types of milk—oat, soy, or cashew milk can offer new flavor profiles while keeping the oats plant-based. For added nutrition, incorporate a tablespoon of chia seeds. These tiny seeds expand and create a gel-like texture that enhances the overall creaminess and boosts the fiber content. Additionally, you may opt for sugar alternatives like agave syrup for a lower glycemic index sweetener.

As for toppings, don't hesitate to get creative! Sliced strawberries or fresh blueberries can introduce freshness and a pop of color, while a sprinkle of cinnamon can add warmth and complexity to the flavor. If you're feeling indulgent, a spoonful of peanut butter or almond butter swirled in right before serving adds healthy fats, protein, and an extra layer of richness, making your breakfast even more satisfying.

Ingredients

For the Oats

1/2 cup rolled oats
1 cup unsweetened almond milk
2 tablespoons chocolate chips
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Optional Toppings

Sliced banana
Chopped nuts
Additional chocolate chips
Chia seeds

Instructions

Steps

Combine Ingredients

In a bowl or jar, mix together rolled oats, almond milk, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir in the chocolate chips.

Chill Overnight

Cover the mixture tightly and refrigerate overnight (or at least for 4 hours) to allow the oats to absorb the liquid.

Serve

In the morning, give the oats a good stir and add your desired toppings such as sliced bananas, chopped nuts, or more chocolate chips.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding different flavors or toppings based on your preference. Experiment with different nut milks or even yogurt for a creamier texture!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Preparing Chocolate Chip Overnight Oats is a fantastic way to streamline your breakfast routine, making it easy to whip up several jars at once. These oats can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days, making them ideal for meal prepping. Just prepare multiple portions in separate jars to grab one each morning. The flavors intensify as the mixture sits, ensuring each serving is deliciously infused with chocolatey goodness.

If you're ever short on time in the morning, you can enjoy these oats cold straight from the refrigerator. However, if you prefer a warm breakfast, you can microwave them for a minute or two, stirring halfway through until heated through. Just remember not to heat them too long, as it may alter the texture by making them overly soft.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable, which is great for families or gatherings. You can simply double or triple the ingredients and prepare batches in multiple jars. Keep in mind to maintain the same soaking time regardless of the quantity, so the oats have enough time to absorb the liquid fully. Larger quantities may require larger containers, which will need additional space in the refrigerator to chill effectively.

If you're preparing a larger batch and want to minimize the fuss in the morning, consider dividing the oats into individual serving sizes in smaller jars or containers. This not only makes for convenient grab-and-go breakfasts but also helps control portion sizes. Just be sure to label and date them so you can enjoy them at their freshest!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?

Steel-cut oats will require more liquid and a longer soaking time. It’s best to stick with rolled oats for this recipe.

→ How long can I store overnight oats?

You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them perfect for meal prep!

→ Can I make this vegan?

Absolutely! Just use a plant-based sweetener and almond milk to keep it vegan-friendly.

→ What other flavors can I add?

You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or mix in fruits like berries or peaches for a fresh twist!