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This brownie batter overnight oats recipe transforms your morning routine into a dessert-like experience while keeping nutrition at the forefront. These creamy, chocolatey oats satisfy sweet cravings while providing sustained energy throughout your morning.
I created this recipe during a particularly hectic work week when I needed grab-and-go breakfasts. My chocolate-loving family quickly declared it their favorite overnight oats variation, and it's now our Monday morning tradition to start the week on a sweet note.
Ingredients
- Rolled oats: Provide the hearty base and offer beneficial fiber for digestive health. Choose One Degree Sprouted Gluten Free Oats for maximum nutrition and digestibility.
- Cocoa powder: Delivers that rich chocolate flavor while adding antioxidants. Look for unsweetened varieties for the purest taste.
- Chocolate protein powder: Boosts the satiety factor and enhances the brownie flavor profile. Equip Foods offers clean ingredients without artificial sweeteners.
- Chia seeds: Create that pudding-like texture while adding omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. Always opt for organic when possible.
- Sea salt: Enhances the chocolate flavor dramatically. Just a little pinch makes all the difference.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the chocolate notes. Pure extract rather than imitation provides superior flavor.
- Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt: Contributes creaminess and tanginess while boosting protein content. Choose full-fat versions for the richest taste.
- Your preferred milk: Adjusts the consistency to your liking while adding additional protein and nutrients.
- Brewed coffee: Is optional but amplifies the chocolate flavor significantly without making it taste like coffee.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl add the rolled oats, cocoa powder, chocolate protein powder, chia seeds, and sea salt. Whisk thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the cocoa powder and protein powder. This prevents clumping and ensures consistent chocolate flavor throughout.
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- Pour in the vanilla extract, Greek yogurt, and about 1 cup of milk to start. The mixture should be slightly looser than you want the final product since the oats and chia seeds will absorb liquid overnight. If using coffee, add it now for that enhanced chocolate flavor.
- Mix Thoroughly:
- Use a rubber spatula to fold everything together, pressing against the sides of the bowl to break up any cocoa powder or protein powder clumps. Continue mixing until the mixture appears uniform and smooth with no dry pockets remaining.
- Portion and Refrigerate:
- Divide the mixture evenly among four mason jars or containers. Leave a little room at the top as the mixture will expand slightly. Seal tightly with lids and place in the refrigerator overnight or for at least 4-6 hours until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency.
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The cocoa powder is truly the star ingredient in this recipe. I discovered that using high-quality cocoa transforms this breakfast from simply chocolate-flavored to genuinely reminiscent of actual brownie batter. My daughter once asked if she could have these oats for dessert, not realizing they were actually her breakfast for the next morning!
Customization Options
These brownie batter overnight oats welcome creative additions based on your preferences. For an extra indulgent version, fold in dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs just before serving. They add textural contrast and little bursts of intense chocolate flavor. My family loves adding sliced bananas or fresh berries on top for natural sweetness and a pop of color.
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Make It Your Own
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. For a lower carb version, reduce the oats and increase the chia seeds. Those seeking more protein can add an extra scoop of protein powder or a tablespoon of nut butter swirled through each jar. The sweetness level comes primarily from your protein powder, so adjust according to your taste preferences by adding a drizzle of honey or maple syrup if desired.
Nutritional Benefits
These overnight oats offer more than just convenience and taste. The combination of complex carbohydrates from oats paired with protein from Greek yogurt and protein powder creates a balanced breakfast that stabilizes blood sugar levels. The chia seeds provide omega-3 fatty acids and additional fiber, while cocoa powder contributes antioxidants. This nutrient-dense breakfast supports sustained energy, muscle recovery, and overall wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these Brownie Batter Overnight Oats dairy-free?
Yes! You can easily make this dairy-free by substituting the Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt and using almond milk or coconut milk instead of dairy milk. The texture and flavor will be slightly different but equally delicious.
- → How long do these overnight oats stay fresh in the refrigerator?
When stored in sealed airtight containers, these overnight oats will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator, making them perfect for meal prep at the beginning of the week.
- → Can I skip the coffee in this recipe?
Absolutely! The coffee is optional and adds a subtle depth to the chocolate flavor. You can simply substitute it with extra milk if you prefer to avoid coffee or are making this for children.
- → Is it necessary to use protein powder in this recipe?
While the protein powder adds nutritional value and contributes to the brownie flavor, you can omit it if desired. Consider adding an extra tablespoon of cocoa powder and a touch of sweetener to maintain the chocolate flavor profile.
- → Can I warm these overnight oats before eating?
Yes, though they're designed to be eaten cold, you can gently warm them in the microwave if you prefer. Heat in short intervals and stir between each to avoid overheating, as this can affect the texture of the yogurt and chia seeds.
- → What toppings work well with these chocolate overnight oats?
Great topping options include sliced bananas, chocolate chips, a dollop of nut butter, fresh berries, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of granola for added texture and complementary flavors.