Chocolate Peanut Butter Overnight Oats are a healthy and decadently delicious start to the day. Take 5 minutes to prepare the night before, and enjoy a cool and creamy weekday breakfast on-the-go. 
This post was originally published in 2015 and updated in 2020.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Overnight Oats Recipe
These overnight oats are a weekday staple at my house. They're cool and creamy, and taste like the breakfast version of a Reese's peanut butter cup. I typically double the batch so that I have some on hand for breakfast, and some to dig into for dessert. They just have a way of satisfying the sweet tooth unlike anything else.
These overnight oats are also super adaptable. Some mornings, I'll mix in a couple Tablespoons of my favorite protein powder for extra staying powder. Other times, I add a spoonful of hemp seeds or mashed banana for added sweetness. That's the best part of overnight oats: No two servings ever have to be the same.
What is the Ratio for Overnight Oats?
The best starting ratio for overnight oats is 1 cup of liquid for every 1 cup of oats. The caveat, however, is if you add other dry ingredients to the mix. For example, this recipe calls for cocoa powder and (optional) protein powder, which will require more liquid for soaking. Sometimes yogurt can negate the need for extra liquid, however most times you'll need an extra 2 to 4 Tablespoons of milk/liquid.
If you like your overnight oats really thick, definitely start with the 1:1 ratio. However, if they're TOO thick the next morning, you can always mix in extra milk as needed. No need to perfect the recipe the night before.
Overnight Oats with Greek Yogurt
Adding yogurt is a game-changer for overnight oats. It creates a thick, creamy consistency, plus adds protein and probiotics. I typically add ¼ cup Greek yogurt for every 1 cup of oats. Don't be afraid to use whole-milk varieties of yogurt here--they add extra staying power, plus help you better absorb the fat-soluble vitamins.
My favorite brands to use are Siggi's (not Greek yogurt, but similar in texture) and Fage. Also, feel free to go for a flavored variety--I typically stick with vanilla, however the fruit flavors are always fun to switch it up.
What to Add to Overnight Oatmeal:
- Old-fashioned Rolled Oats: These are a MUST. I do not suggest quick-cooking or steel cut oats for overnight soaking. Quick-cooking will become too mushy, and steel-cut won't soften nearly enough.
- Milk: I love using an alternative milk such as almond, cashew, or oat milk. They're thicker than dairy milk, which leads to a creamier consistency.
- Natural Peanut Butter: It's important to use natural here because it mixes better. My personal favorites in terms of taste and consistency are Trader Joe's and Whole Foods 365 brands.
- Seeds: Chia, flax, and hemp seeds are totally optional, however they add a big nutritional boost (omega-3 fatty acids and protein). If you do add seeds, stick to 1 tablespoon for every 1 cup of oats, and increase the milk by ¼ cup.
- Protein Powder: Also optional, however it does give the oats more staying power. My personal favorite protein powder is Bob's Red Mill--It contains chia and probiotics, and is likely sweetened with monk fruit.
- Maple Syrup: This is the BEST sweetener for overnight oats because it mixes well, and a little goes a long way. Plus, the flavor profile bodes well for just about any breakfast combination.
Do you Eat Overnight Oats Hot or Cold?
Overnight oats are meant to be eaten cold, however, if you prefer them warm, you always have the option to heat them up. Because they soak overnight, they are plenty soft to enjoy cold right out of the refrigerator. I suggest just serving them alongside a hot mug of coffee so you have the best of both worlds.
Give this recipe a try for a nutritious, satisfying breakfast to tackle weekday mornings. And be sure to snap a pic and tag #dishingouthealth on Instagram so I can see your beautiful creations. Also, follow along on Facebook and Pinterest for the latest recipe updates!
More Healthy Oatmeal Recipes
High Protein Brownie Batter Overnight Oats
Vanilla Maple Almond Butter Overnight Oats
Chia Spiced Baked Oatmeal with Pecan Crumble
Chocolate Peanut Butter Overnight Oats
Ingredients
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup unsweetened almond, cashew, or oat milk (plus more for stirring in the next morning)
- ¼ cup 2% or whole-milk vanilla Greek yogurt
- 2 Tbsp. natural creamy peanut butter
- 1 ½ Tbsp. unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 Tbsp. pure maple syrup
- ⅛ tsp. salt
- Optional: 1-2 Tbsp. of your favorite protein powder
- Optional toppings: fresh fruit, nuts, peanut butter drizzle, hemp seeds, etc.
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a Mason jar or Tupperware container. Stir, close lid, and shake until well-combined. Refrigerate overnight, or at least 6 hours.
- Stir again, and add 1 to 2 Tbsp. extra Tablespoons of milk to loosen up, if needed. Add toppings of choice (fresh fruit, peanut butter drizzle, walnuts, etc.)
Notes
Nutrition
Connie
Could you please tell me how many smart points there are in this recipe?
Angie
6 pts - using ingredients as listed with plain greek yogurt. The points value does not include the chocolate chips or drizzle as shown in the picture.
Corrie
I've made this recipe several times now, and I am pleased to report that it is absolutely delicious! Thanks for posting. One question: how long can the overnight oats sit in the fridge? (I'd like to make several days' worth.)
dishingouthealth
SO thrilled you've been enjoying the recipe, Corrie! It's one my staples for busy weeks. I've kept mine refrigerated for 2-3 days and they were fine, but haven't tried longer than that