Chocolate Peanut Butter Overnight Oats Recipe
If you’re craving a breakfast that tastes like a decadent dessert but fuels your day with wholesome goodness, you’ve got to try this Chocolate Peanut Butter Overnight Oats Recipe. It’s creamy, chocolatey, and nutty magic all in one jar, ready as soon as you wake up. Whether you’re a busy bee or just love cozy mornings, this recipe blends rich cocoa, smooth peanut butter, and hearty oats into a velvety, no-cook delight that feels absolutely indulgent without any guilt.

Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple ingredients are the secret to making your Chocolate Peanut Butter Overnight Oats Recipe shine. Each one plays a crucial role, from creating the perfect creamy texture to balancing sweet and savory flavors that satisfy your breakfast cravings.
- Rolled oats: 1/2 cup of your favorite oats, regular or gluten free, form the hearty base that softens overnight.
- Milk of choice: 1/2 cup; chocolate milk is my personal favorite for an extra rich and chocolaty punch.
- Peanut butter: 2-3 teaspoons of creamy peanut butter add nutty warmth and protein to keep you full.
- Cocoa powder: 1 tablespoon brings deep chocolate flavor without the extra sugar.
- Vanilla extract: 1/2 teaspoon, to lift and brighten the flavors gently.
- Maple syrup or honey: 2-3 teaspoons for natural sweetness, adjusted to your taste.
- Sea salt: A dash to balance the sweetness and enhance all the flavors.
- Chia seeds (optional): 1 teaspoon to add a subtle crunch and boost fiber and omega-3s.
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Overnight Oats Recipe
Step 1: Combine Your Base Ingredients
Start by grabbing a small jar or bowl with a lid—it keeps everything cozy while the oats absorb all the flavors overnight. Add the rolled oats, milk of your choice, and peanut butter. Stir these together until the peanut butter blends smoothly with the oats and milk, creating that luscious thick base you’re aiming for. Next, mix in the cocoa powder to give your oats that unmistakable chocolatey charm.
Step 2: Sweeten and Season
Now it’s time to add vanilla extract, your sweetener of choice like maple syrup or honey, and a tiny pinch of sea salt. These ingredients elevate the texture and flavor, balancing richness with the perfect hint of sweetness. If you love a little crunch and extra nutrition, sprinkle in those chia seeds here and stir them well. Once everything is combined, seal the jar tightly and give it a gentle shake to mix all the goodness evenly.
Step 3: Refrigerate Overnight
Place your jar in the fridge and let it rest for at least 4 hours, or better yet, overnight. This resting period allows the oats to soften wonderfully as they soak up the creamy, chocolatey mixture, making every bite a smooth, satisfying experience. When morning comes, your Chocolate Peanut Butter Overnight Oats are ready to enjoy directly from the fridge.
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Overnight Oats Recipe

Garnishes
Topping your Chocolate Peanut Butter Overnight Oats Recipe is where you can get creative and make it uniquely yours. Fresh banana slices add natural sweetness and a burst of freshness, while a handful of chocolate chips transforms the oatmeal into a super indulgent treat. Crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or even a spoonful of crunchy granola also pair beautifully, adding texture and flavor contrast.
Side Dishes
This oatmeal dish stands beautifully on its own but pairs brilliantly with simple side dishes. A glass of chilled almond milk, fresh berries, or a side of Greek yogurt can elevate your breakfast and keep things balanced with a refreshing twist. If you’re looking for a heartier start, toast with almond butter complements the peanut flavor wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
Why stick to basic bowls when you can jazz up your presentation? Serve your overnight oats in mason jars for a cute grab-and-go breakfast or display in clear glasses to show off those beautiful layers of oats, chocolate, and peanut butter. You can also make individual parfait-style servings with alternate layers of the oats and your favorite toppings for an Instagram-worthy morning feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you make a larger batch, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Because the oats absorb moisture over time, they will thicken further, so you might want to stir in a splash of milk before serving to loosen the texture. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Freezing overnight oats isn’t typically recommended because the texture can change once thawed, becoming watery or uneven. For the freshest taste and best consistency, it’s best to prepare this Chocolate Peanut Butter Overnight Oats Recipe fresh or store it refrigerated instead.
Reheating
This recipe shines when served cold, but if you prefer warm oats, simply transfer your portion to a microwave-safe bowl and heat gently for 30-45 seconds. Stir well to combine, adding a touch of milk if needed to get that smooth consistency back before digging in.
FAQs
Can I use other nut butters instead of peanut butter?
Absolutely! Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter all work wonderfully in this Chocolate Peanut Butter Overnight Oats Recipe and can lend their own unique flavor twists.
Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free rolled oats, this recipe is perfect for gluten-sensitive folks. Always check your cocoa powder and other ingredients for cross-contamination if you have a severe allergy.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Definitely! Use a plant-based milk like almond, cashew, or oat milk, and choose a vegan sweetener like maple syrup to keep the recipe fully vegan and delicious.
How long can I keep the oats refrigerated once prepared?
Your overnight oats will be best consumed within 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and flavor.
Can I add protein powder to this recipe?
Yes, mixing in a scoop of your favorite protein powder can boost the nutrition and keep you full longer—just be sure to stir it in well when combining the wet ingredients.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about waking up to a breakfast that feels both indulgent and nourishing, and this Chocolate Peanut Butter Overnight Oats Recipe does just that. It’s simple to prep, rich in flavor, and endlessly customizable, making it a personal favorite that I’m excited for you to try. Once you make it, I promise you’ll find yourself reaching for this cozy, chocolaty jar again and again.
PrintChocolate Peanut Butter Overnight Oats Recipe
Delight in the creamy richness of Chocolate Peanut Butter Overnight Oats, a quick and nutritious breakfast or snack option. Made by soaking rolled oats in chocolate milk with peanut butter, cocoa powder, and a touch of sweetness, this recipe offers a deliciously smooth, protein-packed start to your day or a satisfying treat anytime.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-6 hours (refrigeration time)
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: No-cook, Refrigeration
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1/2 cup rolled oats (regular or gluten free)
- 1/2 cup milk of choice (chocolate milk recommended)
- 2–3 tsp peanut butter (or any nut or seed butter)
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
Flavorings & Sweeteners
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2–3 tsp maple syrup or honey (or preferred sweetener)
- Dash of sea salt
Optional Add-ins
- 1 tsp chia seeds (for extra crunch)
Instructions
- Combine base ingredients: Grab a small jar or bowl with a lid and add the rolled oats, milk, and peanut butter. Mix well until the peanut butter is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
- Add cocoa powder: Stir in the cocoa powder evenly to ensure the chocolate flavor is fully blended throughout the oats mixture.
- Mix in flavorings and sweeteners: Add the vanilla extract, maple syrup or honey, and a dash of sea salt. If using, sprinkle in the chia seeds for added texture. Seal the jar or cover the bowl tightly and shake or stir gently to combine everything thoroughly.
- Refrigerate overnight: Place the sealed container in the fridge for 4 to 6 hours, or preferably overnight. During this time, the oats will soften and absorb the flavors, resulting in a creamy and delicious texture.
- Serve and enjoy: In the morning or when ready, eat the oats cold straight from the jar. For an extra touch, top with banana slices, chocolate chips, or your favorite oatmeal toppings.
Notes
- Using chocolate milk instead of regular milk adds extra richness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness to your preference by varying the amount of maple syrup or honey.
- Chia seeds are optional but add texture and boost fiber and omega-3 content.
- Make sure the jar or bowl is tightly sealed to prevent spills and maintain freshness.
- Overnight oats can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance for convenience.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: overnight oats, chocolate peanut butter oats, healthy breakfast, no-cook oats, protein-packed oats, easy breakfast recipe, vegan option with plant milk