These mocha overnight oats are a tasty way to start your day! With rich coffee, chocolate, and a creamy texture, they make breakfast feel a little bit like dessert.
Mix everything the night before, pop them in the fridge, and let them do their thing. I love waking up to this yummy treat—it’s like a wake-up hug in a jar! ☕️🍫
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are the best base for overnight oats because they soak up the liquid well. If you need a quicker-cooking option, you can use quick oats, but they might be a bit mushy. Steel-cut oats aren’t ideal for this method, as they won’t soften properly overnight.
Milk: Use any milk you prefer! Almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk work great if you’re dairy-free. I sometimes mix a bit of regular milk with a plant-based one for a creamier texture.
Brewed Coffee: If you’re not a coffee fan, replace it with cold brew or even chocolate milk for a chocolatey sweetness. You can also use decaf coffee if you’re sensitive to caffeine.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa gives you that rich mocha flavor, but if you prefer a bit of sweetness, there are sweetened cocoa powders available. Just adjust your sweetener accordingly.
Chia Seeds: Chia seeds are optional but they add a pleasant texture and boost the nutrition. If you don’t have them, you could skip them or replace them with ground flaxseed for a similar effect.
How Do You Ensure Your Overnight Oats Are Perfectly Creamy?
To get those oats just right, it’s all about the soaking process. Make sure you mix everything well so the oats are evenly coated with liquid. Here’s how:
- Combine all ingredients in a jar or bowl, and mix thoroughly. This is key to incorporating the cocoa and sweetener evenly.
- Cover tightly to minimize exposure to air and help keep everything fresh.
- Be mindful of the soaking time. Overnight (or at least 4 hours) is crucial, as it allows the oats to absorb the liquid fully.
- If your oats are too thick in the morning, don’t hesitate to add a splash of extra milk or coffee to loosen it up!
This simple care in preparation will ensure you wake up to a smooth, delicious breakfast waiting for you!
Mocha Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup brewed coffee, cooled
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for texture and nutrition)
- 1 to 2 teaspoons sweetener of choice (maple syrup, honey, or sugar)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons dark chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips (for topping)
- Fresh raspberries (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time. You’ll need to let the oats soak in the fridge overnight, or at least for 4 hours, which helps achieve that creamy texture. It really is a quick breakfast option to prepare ahead of time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a jar or bowl, add the rolled oats, milk, cooled brewed coffee, cocoa powder, chia seeds, sweetener, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Make sure to include everything to get that delicious mocha flavor!
2. Mix Well:
Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly. This step is super important to ensure the cocoa powder dissolves completely and the ingredients blend together nicely.
3. Refrigerate Overnight:
Once everything is mixed, cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap. Pop it in the fridge and let it sit overnight (or for at least 4 hours). The oats will absorb the liquid and soften as they sit, creating a wonderful texture.
4. Stir and Adjust:
The next morning, take the jar out of the fridge and give the oats a good stir. If it’s a little thick for your liking, add a splash more of milk or coffee until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Top It Off:
Add your favorite toppings! Sprinkle on the dark chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips to make it extra indulgent.
6. Optional Serving:
If you like, serve with fresh raspberries on the side. They add a lovely tartness that complements the rich chocolate and coffee flavors!
7. Enjoy:
Your rich, creamy mocha overnight oats are ready to eat! Enjoy them straight from the jar or transfer them to a bowl for a delightful breakfast.
This recipe is not only delicious but also a great way to kickstart your day with a combination of creamy oats, bold coffee, and sweet chocolate. Enjoy your tasty breakfast treat!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats, but keep in mind that they will absorb liquid much faster and may result in a softer texture. Adjust soaking time accordingly—about 2 to 3 hours should be sufficient.
Can I Make Mocha Overnight Oats Without Coffee?
Absolutely! If you want to skip the coffee, you can substitute it with an equal amount of milk, chocolate milk, or even almond milk for a different flavor profile. You could also use a coffee substitute if preferred.
How Long Do Mocha Overnight Oats Last in the Fridge?
Your mocha overnight oats will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container. If they thickened up too much overnight, simply stir in a little milk or coffee before eating!
Can I Add More Toppings?
Of course! Feel free to get creative. You can add nuts, seeds, fruits (like bananas or strawberries), or even a dollop of yogurt for extra creaminess. It’s your breakfast, so make it your own!