Chocolate Chip Overnight Oats

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely adore starting my mornings with something that combines convenience and indulgence, which is why I created these Chocolate Chip Overnight Oats. They allow me to enjoy creamy oats filled with rich chocolate flavor and sweet morsels, all while saving precious time in the busy mornings. Preparing them the night before means I can simply grab them from the fridge in the morning, and I'm good to go. Plus, they keep me energized for hours, making them a perfect breakfast choice for any day of the week.

Poppy Walsh

Created by

Poppy Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-20T00:55:15.217Z

When I first made these Chocolate Chip Overnight Oats, I didn't expect them to become such a staple in my breakfast repertoire. The combination of oats and chocolate seemed too good to be true, but I was pleasantly surprised by how well the flavors meld together. With a bit of almond milk and a drizzle of maple syrup, the oats become a creamy, delightful treat.

One tip I've gleaned from my repeated experiments is to let the oats sit for at least 4 hours in the fridge, allowing them to soften perfectly. You can also easily customize this recipe with nuts, fruits, or even a dollop of yogurt for added richness. It’s this flexibility that keeps me coming back for more!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich chocolate flavor that satisfies sweet cravings
  • Super easy to prepare and customize to your taste
  • Perfectly creamy texture that holds up well overnight

Understanding the Key Ingredients

The base of these Chocolate Chip Overnight Oats is rolled oats, which provide a hearty and chewy texture. They absorb the almond milk overnight, becoming soft and creamy while maintaining just enough bite. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, ensure you use certified gluten-free rolled oats. This grain is not just filling; it also offers fiber that helps keep you satisfied throughout the morning.

Almond milk contributes to the creamy consistency of the oats while adding a subtle nutty flavor. You can substitute it with any milk of your choice, such as oat or dairy milk, but each alternative may slightly alter the oats' texture and taste. If you prefer a richer flavor, try unsweetened coconut milk instead; just adjust the sweetness by reducing the maple syrup.

Preparation Tips for Perfect Oats

When mixing your ingredients, using a bowl with a lid can streamline the process. After combining the oats and liquids, cover the bowl and give it a good shake to ensure everything is fully incorporated. This method can also enhance the overall creaminess. Make sure not to leave any dry oats unmoistened, as they might remain crunchy in the final product.

For the best flavor integration, aim to chill the oats for a minimum of 4 hours, though overnight is ideal. This extended time allows the oats to absorb the liquid completely, softening to perfection. If you find the mixture too thick in the morning, feel free to stir in a splash of additional milk to reach your desired consistency before serving.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Chocolate Chip Overnight Oats:

Ingredients

  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 2 cups almond milk (or milk of choice)
  • 2 tablespoons chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Make sure to mix these ingredients well to ensure the oats absorb the flavors!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your overnight oats:

Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, almond milk, chocolate chips, maple syrup (if using), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well mixed.

Chill Overnight

Transfer the mixture to a mason jar or airtight container, seal it, and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Serve

In the morning, give the oats a good stir. You can top with additional chocolate chips, nuts, or fresh fruit before enjoying.

These oats can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days for a quick grab-and-go breakfast!

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Pro Tips

  • Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins like chia seeds, peanut butter, or even banana slices for added flavor and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Chip Overnight Oats can be enjoyed straight from the jar, but feel free to get creative with your toppings! Adding sliced bananas, fresh berries, or a dollop of nut butter not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the nutritional value. I personally love sprinkling some chia seeds on top for a crunch and added fiber—plus, they look appealing!

If you need a breakfast that travels well, try packing your oats in a mason jar. These jars not only keep your oats fresh but also make portion control a breeze. Just remember to layer in your toppings carefully to maintain texture; placing fragile fruits on top can prevent mushiness.

Storage and Meal Prep

These overnight oats store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making them an excellent meal prep option. You can batch-cook several jars at once, adjusting flavors or toppings for variety—think of trying peanut butter chocolate variation or adding spices like cinnamon for a twist.

If you're considering freezing them, I recommend undercooking the oats slightly since freezing can alter the texture. Leave out the chocolate chips and any fresh fruit, adding them after thawing. When ready to eat, transfer to the fridge overnight to defrost, ensuring a quick breakfast is always at hand even on your busiest days.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the oats for something else?

Yes, you can use gluten-free oats if you’re looking for a gluten-free option.

→ How long do the oats last in the fridge?

They are best enjoyed within 3 days but can last up to 5 days if sealed properly.

→ Can I use a different type of milk?

Absolutely! Any milk—dairy or non-dairy—will work well for this recipe.

→ Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?

You can reduce the amount of chocolate chips and add more fruits, nuts, or seeds for a nutrient boost.

Chocolate Chip Overnight Oats

I absolutely adore starting my mornings with something that combines convenience and indulgence, which is why I created these Chocolate Chip Overnight Oats. They allow me to enjoy creamy oats filled with rich chocolate flavor and sweet morsels, all while saving precious time in the busy mornings. Preparing them the night before means I can simply grab them from the fridge in the morning, and I'm good to go. Plus, they keep me energized for hours, making them a perfect breakfast choice for any day of the week.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration0 minutes
Overall Time15 minutes

Created by: Poppy Walsh

Recipe Type: Healthy & Light

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 2 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 1 cup rolled oats
  2. 2 cups almond milk (or milk of choice)
  3. 2 tablespoons chocolate chips
  4. 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
  5. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  6. Pinch of salt

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, almond milk, chocolate chips, maple syrup (if using), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well mixed.

Step 02

Transfer the mixture to a mason jar or airtight container, seal it, and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 03

In the morning, give the oats a good stir. You can top with additional chocolate chips, nuts, or fresh fruit before enjoying.

Extra Tips

  1. Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins like chia seeds, peanut butter, or even banana slices for added flavor and nutrition.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 300 kcal
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Dietary Fiber: 7g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 9g