Chunky Monkey Overnight Oats are a fun and tasty breakfast. Made with creamy bananas, chocolate chips, and rolled oats, they give you a sweet start to your day!
They are super easy to prepare; just mix everything in a jar and let it sit overnight. I love waking up to a delicious meal without any cooking! 🍌🍫
Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are essential for the texture. If you only have quick oats, they will work too, but they might become mushy. Steel-cut oats can also be used, but soak them longer since they take more time to soften.
Milk: You can use any milk you like! Almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk are great non-dairy options. If you want extra creaminess, go for whole milk or full-fat coconut milk.
Chia Seeds: They help thicken the oats and add healthy omega-3s. If you’re out of chia seeds, you can leave them out or use flaxseeds instead for a similar effect.
Banana: A ripe banana adds natural sweetness. If you don’t like bananas, try using applesauce or another fruit like mashed berries for a different flavor.
Nut Butter: Peanut butter is classic here, but almond butter or even sun butter are tasty alternatives. If you’re nut-free, feel free to skip it entirely or use seed butter.
Yogurt: Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein. If you prefer a dairy-free option, there are many tasty plant-based yogurts available.
Chocolate Chips: Dark chocolate is great for a richer taste. You can substitute with carob chips or skip them altogether for a healthier version.
How Do I Get My Overnight Oats to Be Creamy and Tasty?
Making creamy overnight oats is all about the right ratios and soaking time. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Combine the oats and chia seeds with milk—this is key for creaminess. Aim for 1:1 oats to milk ratio.
- Let them soak overnight. This gives the oats and chia seeds enough time to absorb liquid and swell, which prevents them from feeling dry.
- Mix in flavorings like nut butter and sweeteners after soaking. This keeps the texture smooth and enjoyable.
Store in a sealed jar to keep flavors fresh. Try adding extra toppings just before eating to keep them crunchy!
Chunky Monkey Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 ripe banana, sliced
Toppings and Extras:
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter or almond butter
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt
- 2 tablespoons chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
- 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and needs to chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. It’s a quick process that sets you up for a delicious breakfast the next morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base Ingredients:
In a jar or bowl, mix together the rolled oats, chia seeds, milk, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until everything is nicely blended.
2. Add the Banana:
Take half of the sliced banana and gently fold it into the oat mixture. This adds sweetness and a delicious banana flavor throughout!
3. Chill Overnight:
Cover the jar or bowl and place it in the fridge. Let the mixture sit overnight (or for at least 4 hours) so the oats can absorb the liquid and soften up.
4. Layer with Remaining Banana:
The next morning, take the jar out of the fridge and add the remaining banana slices on top of the oat mixture.
5. Add the Peanut Butter:
If needed, warm the peanut butter slightly in the microwave so it’s easier to spread. Add a generous layer of peanut butter over the banana slices.
6. Top with Yogurt:
Next, dollop 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt (or plant-based yogurt) on top of the peanut butter for a creamy texture and additional protein.
7. Sprinkle on the Goodies:
Add a sprinkle of chocolate chips and chopped nuts on top of the yogurt for crunch and extra flavor!
8. Sweeten it Up:
If you like it sweeter, drizzle some honey or maple syrup on top of your creation for that extra touch.
9. Enjoy Your Breakfast!
Grab a spoon and dig into your delicious, creamy, and satisfying Chunky Monkey Overnight Oats. Enjoy your tasty start to the day!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but keep in mind they may result in a softer texture since they absorb liquid more quickly. If using quick oats, you might want to reduce the soaking time to avoid mushiness.
How Do I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make Chunky Monkey Overnight Oats vegan, simply use plant-based milk, skip the Greek yogurt or opt for a vegan yogurt alternative, and ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free. You can also use maple syrup instead of honey for sweetness.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prep the oats up to 3 days in advance. Just store them in the fridge and layer the toppings fresh each morning for the best texture and flavor.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Chia Seeds?
If you’re out of chia seeds, you can skip them or substitute with flaxseeds. They help thicken the oats and add some fiber, but it’s perfectly fine to make the recipe without them if you prefer.