Chunky Monkey Overnight Oats are a fun and tasty breakfast! Made with oats, bananas, and a touch of peanut butter, they taste just like dessert while being good for you!
I love how you can make them the night before and wake up to a ready-to-eat meal! Plus, who can resist more chocolate chips in the morning? Just saying! 🍌🍫
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are the star of the dish! Rolled oats soak up the milk well, making them creamy. If you’re out of rolled oats, quick oats can work, but they may be softer in texture. Steel-cut oats won’t work as well since they need longer cooking time.
Milk: You can use any kind of milk, from almond to cow’s milk. If you’re looking for a nut-free option, oat milk or coconut milk are great alternatives. Just keep in mind that the flavor may change a bit depending on your choice!
Peanut Butter: This adds creaminess and a rich flavor. If you’re allergic to peanuts or prefer a different taste, almond butter or sunflower seed butter are excellent substitutes. Some folks even like using pumpkin seed butter for a unique twist!
Chia Seeds: They help thicken the oats and add fiber. If you don’t have them, flaxseeds can be used instead but they won’t thicken as much. Just remember to grind them first for better digestion.
Banana: The riper the banana, the sweeter your oats will be! If you want to avoid bananas, applesauce or even pureed pumpkin can add natural sweetness and moisture.
How Do I Make Sure My Oats Are Creamy and Delicious?
Getting that perfect creamy texture is key in overnight oats! Here’s how to make sure yours turn out great:
- Use rolled oats for the best texture. They soak up the liquid nicely.
- Mix your wet ingredients well before adding the oats. This ensures all oats are evenly soaked.
- Let them sit overnight! The longer they soak, the creamier they will become, usually at least 6 hours.
- Before serving, give them a good stir. You can adjust the consistency by adding a splash more milk if needed.
Enjoy your creamy and tasty Chunky Monkey Overnight Oats!
Chunky Monkey Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 small ripe banana, sliced (plus extra for topping)
- 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)
- 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts (plus extra for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This fantastic breakfast takes about 10 minutes to prepare and needs to chill overnight (or at least for 6 hours). So, all you have to do is mix the ingredients the night before, and you’ll wake up to a delightful and filling meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base Ingredients:
In a medium bowl or jar, toss together the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt (if you choose to use it for extra creaminess), chia seeds, peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed and the oats are fully coated.
2. Add the Banana and Mix:
Grab a fork and mash half of the banana in a small bowl. Then, fold it gently into the oat mixture. This adds sweetness and that nice banana flavor! Also, mix in 1 tablespoon of mini chocolate chips and 1 tablespoon of chopped walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
3. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover your jar or bowl tightly with a lid or some plastic wrap. Place it in the fridge overnight or let it sit for at least 6 hours. This gives the oats time to soak up the liquid and become deliciously creamy.
4. Serve It Up:
The next morning, take out your oats and give them a gentle stir to get all the flavors combined. Add the remaining sliced banana on top, along with extra mini chocolate chips and chopped walnuts for that final touch!
5. Drizzle and Enjoy:
Before diving in, drizzle on some more maple syrup or honey if you like it sweeter. Enjoy your tasty Chunky Monkey Overnight Oats straight from the jar or transfer it to a bowl. It’s a yummy, healthy breakfast that feels like dessert!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
While you can use instant oats, keep in mind that they will absorb liquid much faster and may result in a mushier texture. If using instant oats, reduce the soaking time to about 4 hours instead of overnight.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before eating, and you can add a splash of milk to freshen it up if needed!
Can I Prepare These Oats Without Greek Yogurt?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of Greek yogurt or don’t have it on hand, simply omit it. The oats will still be creamy and delicious without it, thanks to the milk and peanut butter!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make the recipe vegan, use coconut or almond milk instead of dairy milk, and choose maple syrup instead of honey. Also, ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free!