Chunky Monkey Overnight Oats are the perfect breakfast treat! Made with oats, banana, nut butter, and a sprinkle of chocolate, they are both creamy and fun to eat.
I love making these the night before so breakfast is ready to go. Plus, who can resist the sweet banana and chocolate combo? It’s like dessert for breakfast! 🍌🍫
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Old-fashioned Rolled Oats: These are the star of the dish, providing a great texture. If you have steel-cut oats, you can use them, but they’ll need to soak longer, as they are chewier.
Milk: You can use any milk you like! Almond, soy, oat, or even coconut milk all work well. Just pick your favorite for a personal touch.
Chia Seeds: These are fantastic for thickening. If you don’t have them, you can skip them or use flaxseeds instead, which also add some health benefits.
Greek Yogurt: This is optional but adds creaminess and protein. If you’re dairy-free, try coconut yogurt or skip it altogether for a lighter option.
Banana: Ripe bananas are key for sweetness. You can substitute them with apple slices or berries if you prefer, though it changes the flavor profile a bit!
Peanut Butter: This gives that yummy creamy texture! Swap with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a different taste or for nut-free options.
How Do I Make Sure My Oats are Perfectly Creamy?
The trick to creamy overnight oats is letting them soak long enough. Follow these steps to get it just right:
- Combine all dry and wet ingredients in your jar or bowl, stirring well to mix. This helps the oats absorb everything evenly.
- Seal the jar tightly, or cover your bowl. This keeps moisture in and prevents the oats from drying out.
- Let them soak for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. The longer they soak, the softer and creamier they will be.
- If they seem too thick in the morning, simply add a splash of milk and stir until the desired consistency is reached.
Enjoy your flavorful and satisfying breakfast!
How to Make Chunky Monkey Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 2 tbsp chia seeds
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional for sweetness)
- 1 medium ripe banana (sliced)
- 2 tbsp peanut butter or almond butter
- 2 tbsp mini chocolate chips
- A pinch of cinnamon (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious breakfast takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll let it sit overnight or at least 4 hours in the fridge. The more time, the softer your oats will be, making them creamy and delightful in the morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
Grab a mason jar or a bowl and start by adding the old-fashioned rolled oats, chia seeds, milk, Greek yogurt (if you’re using it), maple syrup (or honey), and a pinch of cinnamon. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed!
2. Refrigerate:
Seal your jar tightly or cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Pop it in the fridge overnight or for at least 4 hours. This is when the oats will soak up all that yummy liquid and soften up nicely.
3. Stir It Up:
In the morning, take your oats out of the fridge and give them a good stir. If it seems a bit thick, just add a splash of milk and mix again until you achieve your preferred consistency.
4. Add the Banana:
Now, slice up that ripe banana and layer those delicious slices on top of your oatmeal mixture.
5. Drizzle with Peanut Butter:
Next, take your peanut butter (or almond butter) and drizzle it over the banana slices. If your peanut butter is hard, you can warm it up a little first to make it easier to drizzle.
6. Sprinkle the Chocolate Chips:
To finish off your creation, sprinkle the mini chocolate chips on top. Enjoy a generous amount because why not?
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Chunky Monkey Overnight Oats are ready to be enjoyed! Grab a spoon and dig in. They are creamy, satisfying, and packed with all the good stuff to kick start your day!
Now, go ahead and savor that sweet, nutty, and chocolatey goodness!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but keep in mind they will soak up liquid faster and create a softer texture. They may also be ready to eat after just a couple of hours in the fridge!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, simply use a plant-based milk, skip the Greek yogurt or use a dairy-free yogurt alternative, and replace honey with maple syrup, which is already vegan!
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings like nuts, seeds, dried fruits, or a drizzle of dark chocolate. Get creative with flavors!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Oats?
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give them a good stir before eating and add a splash of milk if they seem a bit dry.