Pin Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Overnight Oats is my secret for a fast breakfast that feels like a treat but keeps you full all morning. This recipe layers creamy oats with rich peanut butter and a sprinkling of chocolate chips for the ultimate satisfying start to your day. Just stir up the night before and wake up to something you will crave.
If your mornings are always on the run like mine you will love having these ready to grab. My kids think it is dessert for breakfast and honestly so do I.
Ingredients
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: Whole oats work best for a creamy texture and will not get mushy overnight
- Milk: Use your favorite dairy or a creamy unsweetened plant milk for best results
- Plain Greek yogurt: Adds protein and tang plus extra creaminess I look for whole milk for richness
- Chia seeds: These create a pudding-like consistency and boost nutrition
- Pure maple syrup or honey: Offers just-sweet-enough flavor Choose dark maple syrup for a deeper taste
- Pure vanilla extract: A hint of vanilla makes everything taste bakery fresh go for real vanilla
- Creamy peanut butter: Use a natural kind with just peanuts and salt for pure nutty flavor
- Mini chocolate chips: Tiny chips mix better throughout each bite Choose a good-quality brand for the best melt
- Salt: Optional but lifts all the flavors up a notch Try fine sea salt
I am always picky about using natural peanut butter and a thick Greek yogurt—it makes all the difference in taste and texture.
Instructions
- Mix the Base:
- Combine oats milk yogurt chia seeds maple syrup and vanilla in a bowl or large jar Stir extremely well so everything is coated and the chia seeds do not clump
- Swirl in Peanut Butter:
- Drop peanut butter onto the oat mixture and swirl through with a spoon If you want visible streaks like in a parfait do not overmix
- Fold in Chocolate Chips:
- Add mini chocolate chips and pinch of salt if using Gently stir to distribute so you get chocolate in every bite
- Portion into Jars:
- Spoon mixture evenly into two small jars or airtight containers Level the tops for an even soak
- Chill Overnight:
- Seal jars tightly and let them rest in the fridge for at least eight hours This soaking time is key for creaminess
- Enjoy in the Morning:
- Open jars stir the oats well to combine layers and add an extra dollop of peanut butter or more chocolate chips on top Eat straight from the jar with a spoon cold and creamy
Pin The simple combo of peanut butter and chocolate brings everyone to the breakfast table in my house I have tried fancy versions but this classic mix always wins them over My youngest loves swirling her own extra peanut butter in before digging in
Storage Tips
Store overnight oats in airtight jars or containers in the refrigerator for up to three days Keep toppings like extra chocolate chips or fruits separate until serving for best texture If prepping several portions make sure each jar is tightly sealed to prevent oats from drying out
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap Greek yogurt for non-dairy coconut yogurt for a vegan version Use almond or cashew butter if you are allergic to peanuts or want a flavor switch Substitute maple syrup with agave or simply reduce sweetener for a lower sugar breakfast
Serving Suggestions
Top with banana slices or chopped nuts for extra texture A pinch of cinnamon or a few toasted coconut flakes make this feel like a café treat Perfect as a grab-and-go snack for work afternoons not just breakfast
Cultural and Seasonal Notes
Overnight oats have roots in Swiss and German breakfasts known as muesli Chocolate and peanut butter is an American pairing that is beloved for good reason When berries are at their peak scatter on raspberries or strawberries for a burst of freshness
Seasonal Adaptations
Switch up mix ins with chopped apples and cinnamon in fall Stir in pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice during autumn Add lemon zest and blueberries in the spring
Prep Tips
Easy to double or triple the recipe for meal prep Swap in dried fruit or seeds for different flavor Always let oats chill the full eight hours for best results
Success Stories
Friends who hated oatmeal now request these oats weekly My partner uses these for healthy late-night snacks to avoid fast food Making these in colorful jars convinced my picky eater to try oats
Freezer Meal Conversion
Portion into freezer-safe jars or containers after mixing and freeze for up to one month To serve thaw overnight in the fridge then stir well and enjoy cold If freezing add chocolate chips only just before eating to keep texture crisp
Pin These oats have carried my family through busy seasons and lazy weekend mornings alike You will find this recipe becomes a comforting classic in your rotation
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Yes, almond butter can be substituted for peanut butter to add a nutty twist and keep the same creamy texture.
- → What type of oats are best for this dish?
Old-fashioned rolled oats soak up liquid beautifully, resulting in a creamy, hearty consistency by morning.
- → Are non-dairy yogurts and milks suitable?
Absolutely. Use unsweetened almond, soy, or oat milk, along with plant-based yogurt to keep the dish dairy-free.
- → How long can I store prepared oats in the fridge?
Prepared oats stay fresh for up to three days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- → Can I add other toppings or mix-ins?
Feel free to add sliced bananas, strawberries, or nuts for extra flavor, crunch, and nutrients.
- → How do I adjust the sweetness?
Reduce or increase maple syrup or honey as preferred to tailor the flavor exactly to your taste.