Cookie Dough Overnight Oats
Cookie Dough Overnight Oats are a fun and tasty way to start your day with a bit of sweet comfort. This recipe combines creamy oats soaked overnight with flavors that…
Tip: save now, cook later.Cookie Dough Overnight Oats are a fun and tasty way to start your day with a bit of sweet comfort. This recipe combines creamy oats soaked overnight with flavors that remind me of cookie dough—think vanilla, a touch of sweetness, and little chocolate chips to make every bite exciting.
I love making this the night before because in the morning, it’s ready to go, and I don’t have to rush to prepare breakfast. The oats turn soft and blend with just enough sweetness to feel like a treat but still keep me full and energized. Plus, the little chocolate chips add a perfect pop of flavor that makes mornings feel special.
My favorite way to eat these overnight oats is straight from the fridge, topped with a few extra chocolate chips or maybe a spoonful of nut butter for extra creamy goodness. It’s like enjoying a healthy dessert for breakfast, and it’s an easy way to feel good about starting the day. I promise this will soon become one of your go-to morning meals!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats soak up the liquid well and give a nice creamy texture by morning. If you can’t find them, quick oats can work but might get a bit mushier.
Milk & Yogurt: You can use any milk you like—dairy, almond, oat, or soy. Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein, but plant-based yogurts work great for dairy-free options.
Chia Seeds: These help thicken the oats and add a little boost of fiber and omega-3s. If you don’t have chia, a bit more oats or flaxseeds can be an alternative.
Mini Chocolate Chips: They bring that cookie dough vibe without overwhelming sweetness. Use dairy-free chips if needed or swap for cacao nibs for less sugar.
Nut Butter: Peanut butter is my favorite here because it’s creamy and pairs well with chocolate. Almond or cashew butter works well too. You can skip it or try sunflower seed butter if allergic.
How Do I Make Sure My Overnight Oats Don’t Turn Out Too Thick or Watery?
Getting the right texture is key! Here’s how I handle it:
- Measure your oats and liquid carefully — 1:1 ratio for a creamy but thick texture.
- Add chia seeds to help thicken naturally without needing too much liquid.
- If in the morning your oats are too thick, stir in a little more milk until it’s just right.
- Mix everything well before refrigerating so all oats soak evenly.
- Use plain or slightly tart yogurt to balance sweetness and keep a smooth consistency.
With a little stirring and adjusting, you get soft, creamy oats perfect for enjoying right from the fridge!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mason jar or airtight container – perfect for soaking oats overnight and easy to grab on the go.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the right balance of oats, milk, and chia seeds for the best texture.
- Spoon or small whisk – helps mix all the ingredients smoothly without lumps.
- Refrigerator – this is where the magic happens! The oats need to chill for several hours.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap mini chocolate chips for white chocolate or butterscotch chips for a sweeter twist.
- Add a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to add crunch and extra protein.
- Stir in a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin spice to warm up the flavor—great for chilly mornings.
- Use mashed banana or applesauce instead of or with nut butter for natural sweetness and creaminess.
Cookie Dough Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- ½ cup milk of choice (dairy or plant-based)
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons nut butter (peanut, almond, or your choice) for topping
- 1 tablespoon dried cranberries or raisins (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and at least 6 hours (or overnight) to chill in the fridge. The soaking time lets the oats soften and soak up flavors, so plan ahead for the best creamy texture!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a mason jar or bowl, combine the oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything well until the mixture is smooth and all the oats are coated.
2. Add the Chocolate Chips:
Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, saving some for topping later. This keeps some chocolate chips whole for a nice texture.
3. Let It Soak Overnight:
Cover your jar or bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Leave it for at least 6 hours, or overnight, so the oats soften and the flavors come together.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
In the morning, give the oats a good stir. If it feels too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up. Top with the nut butter, reserved chocolate chips, and dried cranberries or raisins if you like. Enjoy your delicious and easy cookie dough inspired breakfast!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
You can, but instant oats tend to get softer and may become mushy overnight. Rolled oats give the best creamy texture, so I recommend sticking with those if possible.
How Long Can I Store Overnight Oats?
Overnight oats keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give them a good stir before eating and add a little milk if the mixture has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Use plant-based milk and dairy-free yogurt, plus maple syrup or another vegan sweetener. Choose dairy-free chocolate chips and nut butter for a completely vegan-friendly version.
What If I Don’t Have Chia Seeds?
You can leave them out if needed; the oats will still soak up the liquid but may be a bit less thick. Alternatively, add a bit more oats or try ground flaxseeds as a substitute.