Save to Pinterest There's something magical about waking up to a breakfast that's already prepared and waiting for you. Our Banana and Dark Chocolate Overnight Oats embody that perfect balance of convenience and indulgence. As you sleep, the oats transform into a creamy, pudding-like treat that's both nutritious and satisfying, while the combination of sweet banana and rich dark chocolate offers a breakfast that feels more like dessert than a morning meal.
Save to Pinterest These overnight oats have become a staple in my home, especially during hectic weekday mornings. The contrast between the creamy oats, sweet banana, and slightly bitter dark chocolate creates a symphony of flavors that never fails to brighten my day. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – just a few minutes of evening prep rewards you with a breakfast that feels like a special treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (90 g) old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/2 cup (120 g) plain Greek yogurt (or plant-based yogurt)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 large ripe banana, sliced
- 30 g (about 1 oz) dark chocolate, chopped or in chips
- 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or almonds; optional)
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the base
- In a medium bowl or large jar, combine oats, milk, yogurt, chia seeds, maple syrup, and vanilla. Stir well until fully mixed.
- Refrigerate
- Cover and refrigerate overnight (or at least 6 hours) to allow the oats to soften and flavors to meld.
- Adjust consistency
- In the morning, give the oats a good stir. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Portion
- Divide the oats between two bowls or jars.
- Add toppings
- Top each with sliced banana, chopped dark chocolate, and nuts if using. Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt for extra flavor, if desired.
- Serve
- Serve chilled.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the creamiest texture, use old-fashioned rolled oats rather than quick oats or steel-cut varieties. The ratio of liquid to oats is crucial – if you prefer a thicker consistency, reduce the milk slightly. For meal prep convenience, prepare several jars at once and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, adding the banana and chocolate just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This versatile recipe welcomes many adaptations. For a tropical twist, replace the banana with mango and use coconut milk as your base. Those seeking additional protein can add a scoop of protein powder or swap the regular yogurt for a higher-protein Greek variety. For a vegan version, use plant-based milk and yogurt alternatives. If you're watching your sugar intake, reduce the maple syrup and rely on the natural sweetness of the ripe banana.
Serviervorschläge
While these overnight oats shine on their own, consider serving them with additional fresh fruit for extra brightness. For special occasions, create an overnight oats bar with various toppings like different fruits, nut butters, seeds, and chocolate varieties. These oats also pair beautifully with a morning coffee or tea, creating a balanced breakfast experience that satisfies both sweet cravings and nutritional needs.
Save to Pinterest Whether you're a busy professional, a parent on the go, or simply someone who appreciates a hassle-free morning routine, these Banana and Dark Chocolate Overnight Oats offer a delicious solution to hectic mornings. The few minutes of evening preparation create a breakfast that's not only convenient but also a moment of culinary joy to start your day. As the seasons change, adapt this recipe with seasonal fruits and different flavor combinations – the possibilities are endless, but the comfort remains constant.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of oats should I use?
Old-fashioned rolled oats are ideal as they soak well overnight, becoming tender yet retaining some texture.
- → Can I substitute dairy milk?
Yes, plant-based milks like almond or oat milk work perfectly and maintain creaminess.
- → How does the banana affect the flavor?
Ripe banana adds natural sweetness and a creamy texture, balancing the richness of dark chocolate.
- → Is it necessary to refrigerate overnight?
Refrigerating allows the oats to absorb liquids and soften, melding flavors for a creamy, smooth texture.
- → Can I add nuts for crunch?
Yes, chopped walnuts or almonds add pleasant crunch and complement the softness of soaked oats.
- → How can I adjust sweetness?
Maple syrup or honey is added for sweetness, but amounts can be adjusted to your preference.