Save to Pinterest Overnight Oats “Graveyard” is my go-to recipe for adding a touch of playfulness to busy weekday mornings or Halloween breakfast tables. The creamy oats with rich chocolate flavor are not only nutritious but double as a festive delight when topped with “tombstone” cookies and a sprinkle of sweet fright
I started making this every October but now my family requests it on rainy weekends too because even grown-ups love the graveyard oats
Ingredients
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: create the best texture for overnight soaking select oats with minimal processing and always check for gluten-free labeling if needed
- Milk (dairy or plant-based): provides creaminess and richness choose full-fat for extra decadence or oat milk for a nutty flavor
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: gives classic chocolate depth opt for Dutch-process for smoother flavor
- Honey or maple syrup: adds natural sweetness taste both and pick your favorite or blend them
- Plain Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt: makes oats extra thick and boosts protein look for varieties with less sugar
- Vanilla extract: brings out every chocolate note use pure vanilla for rich bakery warmth
- Pinch of salt: always enhances flavor and balances all sweetness
- Rectangular or oval cookies: become the “tombstones” look for sturdy cookies like Milano or homemade shortbread
- Melted dark chocolate: decorates cookies with classic “RIP” and adds more chocolate goodness
- Mini chocolate chips: bring pops of texture and chocolate
- Crushed chocolate cookies: lend a realistic “dirt” effect use crunchy types like Oreos or simple chocolate biscuits
- Gummy worms or candy eyes: for fun Halloween whimsy kids love adding their own toppers
- Fresh mint leaves: bring natural “grass” and a clean finish to such a sweet treat
Instructions
- Mix the Oats Base:
- In a medium bowl combine oats milk cocoa powder honey Greek yogurt vanilla extract and salt Stir very thoroughly until smooth every oat should be coated for perfect nightly soaking
- Fill and Chill:
- Divide the oat mixture among two jars or glasses Let them sit covered in the refrigerator overnight or at least six hours The texture will thicken and flavors meld while you sleep
- Decorate Tombstone Cookies:
- To make tombstones pour melted dark chocolate into a piping bag or dip a toothpick and gently write “RIP” on top of each cookie Set them aside until chocolate hardens giving a spooky bakery look
- Dress the Graveyard:
- Remove jars from the fridge Sprinkle crushed cookies over oats for “dirt” Insert the decorated cookie upright so it resembles a gravestone Add mini chocolate chips and candy eyes Gummy worms and mint leaves build the scene layer by layer
- Serve Chilled:
- Enjoy oats right from the jar or glass The cold creamy base balances the crunchy toppings and sweet frightful decorations
Save to Pinterest The Halloween tombstone cookie is my favorite part Every year my little cousin insists on writing his own cookie message sometimes the cookies say “BOO” and sometimes they feature smiley faces instead of “RIP” These moments always get everyone giggling at breakfast
Storage Tips
You can store the overnight oats up to three days in the refrigerator but toppings are best added just before serving to keep everything crisp Place decorated cookies aside and cover jars with lids so oats stay fresh The graveyard scene holds up if done right before you eat
Ingredient Substitutions
Use certified gluten-free oats and cookies for anyone with sensitivities Plant-based yogurts and milks work perfectly for vegan options Almond butter stirred in the base provides a nutty twist or replace cocoa powder with peanut butter powder for a new flavor
Serving Suggestions
Try serving with extra fruit like strawberries or blueberries for added color Pair with pumpkin spice latte for a super festive morning These oats are also a great snack for after-school treat trays at a Halloween party
Cultural and Historical Context
Overnight oats started as a practical Swiss Bircher muesli Inspiring a range of creative flavors in American kitchens This graveyard twist embodies the playful spirit of Halloween and the joy of making meals interactive for little hands and imaginations
Seasonal Adaptations
Make with pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice for an autumn graveyard Switch out tombstone cookies for heart-shaped ones at Valentine’s or “gift” cookies at Christmas Try strawberry jam “blood” as a topping for extra haunting looks
Success Stories
Friends with kids are always amazed at how quiet breakfast becomes when I set these jars on the table People love customizing their own “graveyard” and find the recipe ideal for sleepovers or themed weekend brunches
Freezer Meal Conversion
While overnight oats chill best in the fridge you can freeze the base in jars without toppings Defrost overnight and decorate when ready to serve This helps for prepping multiple breakfasts before a busy week
Save to Pinterest Decorate jars together for a frightfully fun breakfast experience and savor every creamy spooky bite
Common Recipe Questions
- → How can I make this gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free oats and gluten-free cookies for the tombstones. Check all toppings for gluten content.
- → Can I use plant-based alternatives?
Absolutely! Swap dairy milk and yogurt with any preferred plant-based options and use maple syrup.
- → What cookies work best for tombstones?
Sturdy options like Milano or shortbread cookies work best. Choose varieties that will stand upright.
- → Do the oats need to chill overnight?
For the best texture, chill at least 6 hours. Overnight chilling ensures the oats are fully softened and creamy.
- → How do I decorate the graveyard topping?
Write 'RIP' on cookies with melted dark chocolate, sprinkle crushed cookies for dirt, and add candy eyes, mini chocolate chips, or gummy worms for fun effects.
- → What can I add for extra crunch or flavor?
Add a scoop of nut butter to the base or sprinkle roasted nuts for more crunch and flavor variety.