Chocolate Cherry Overnight Oats

If you’re someone who loves starting your day with a sweet and satisfying breakfast, you’re in for a treat with Chocolate Cherry Overnight Oats. This delightful combination of rich cocoa, juicy cherries, and creamy oats makes for a breakfast that tastes like dessert but is packed with wholesome ingredients to fuel your morning. It’s decadent, filling, and best of all—super easy to make. Just five minutes of prep the night before, and you’ll wake up to a ready-to-eat breakfast that’ll feel like a luxurious treat.

What’s so great about overnight oats? They’re versatile, customizable, and a great option for busy mornings when you don’t have time to cook. You simply mix your ingredients the night before, let them sit in the fridge overnight, and the oats absorb all the flavors and liquids while you sleep. By morning, you have a creamy, chilled, and perfectly textured breakfast that’s ready to go. This Chocolate Cherry Overnight Oats recipe is particularly special because it feels indulgent, but it’s actually packed with nutrients from the oats, cherries, and antioxidant-rich cocoa.

The first time I made these overnight oats, I couldn’t believe how deliciously rich and chocolaty they turned out. It felt like I was having dessert for breakfast, but I knew I was getting a healthy, balanced meal to kickstart my day. Now, it’s one of my go-to overnight oats recipes when I’m craving something sweet but nutritious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s so much to love about Chocolate Cherry Overnight Oats—here’s why you’ll want to add it to your breakfast routine:

Indulgent but healthy: This recipe feels like you’re treating yourself to something special, but it’s made with wholesome, nutritious ingredients like oats, cherries, and cocoa powder.

Perfect for busy mornings: Overnight oats are the ultimate make-ahead breakfast. Just stir the ingredients together the night before, and they’re ready to enjoy in the morning.

Rich in flavor: The combination of chocolate and cherries is a classic pairing, and when mixed with creamy oats and a hint of sweetness, it creates a decadent flavor profile that’s irresistible.

High in fiber and protein: Oats provide a great source of fiber, while ingredients like Greek yogurt and chia seeds add a boost of protein to keep you full and satisfied.

Customizable: You can easily tweak this recipe to suit your preferences—whether you want to make it vegan, add extra toppings, or adjust the sweetness level, it’s totally flexible.

Preparation Time and Servings

Total Time: 5 minutes prep + overnight chilling (at least 4 hours) Servings: 2 servings Calories per serving: Approx. 350-400, depending on toppings

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make Chocolate Cherry Overnight Oats:

1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats: Old-fashioned oats provide the best texture for overnight oats. They absorb liquid beautifully and stay slightly chewy without becoming mushy.

1 tbsp chia seeds: Chia seeds add a boost of fiber and omega-3s and help thicken the oats to a pudding-like consistency.

2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder: This gives the oats their rich chocolate flavor without added sugar.

1 cup almond milk (or any milk of your choice): Use your favorite milk—almond, oat, or dairy milk all work well in this recipe.

1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt): Greek yogurt makes the oats extra creamy and adds a protein boost. You can also use a dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option.

1-2 tbsp maple syrup or honey: Adjust the sweetness to your preference. If your cherries are very sweet, you can use less.

1/2 tsp vanilla extract: For a subtle, warm flavor that complements the chocolate and cherries.

1/2 cup pitted cherries (fresh or frozen): Cherries add a burst of juicy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the chocolate. If using frozen cherries, there’s no need to thaw them—they’ll soften overnight in the fridge.

Optional toppings: Extra cherries, chopped dark chocolate, shaved almonds, shredded coconut, or a drizzle of almond butter.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chia seeds, and cocoa powder. Stir to make sure the chia seeds and cocoa powder are evenly distributed throughout the oats. The chia seeds help thicken the oats as they absorb liquid, giving the mixture a rich, pudding-like texture by morning.

2. Add the Wet Ingredients

Next, pour in the almond milk and Greek yogurt, and add the vanilla extract and sweetener of your choice (maple syrup or honey). Stir everything together until well combined. The mixture should be thick but pourable, and the cocoa powder should be fully incorporated so that the oats have a smooth, chocolaty base.

3. Fold in the Cherries

Gently fold in the pitted cherries. If you’re using fresh cherries, be sure to pit them first, or if you’re using frozen cherries, you can add them straight from the freezer. They’ll defrost and soften overnight, blending perfectly with the creamy oats by morning.

4. Refrigerate Overnight

Once the oats are fully mixed, divide the mixture into two jars or airtight containers. Cover and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 4 hours. The longer the oats sit, the more they’ll absorb the liquid, creating a thick, creamy texture.

5. Add Toppings and Serve

In the morning, give the oats a quick stir, then add your favorite toppings. Some great options include extra cherries, a sprinkle of chopped dark chocolate, a drizzle of almond butter, or even a handful of shredded coconut or sliced almonds for a bit of crunch. Serve chilled or let the oats sit out for 10 minutes if you prefer them slightly closer to room temperature.

How to Serve

These Chocolate Cherry Overnight Oats are perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast or a leisurely weekend brunch. Here are a few serving ideas:

In a jar or bowl: Serve the oats directly from the jar for a portable breakfast you can take to work or school. If you’re enjoying them at home, transfer the oats to a bowl and add your toppings for a pretty and satisfying breakfast.

With extra toppings: Top the oats with fresh cherries, shaved almonds, or even a drizzle of nut butter for extra flavor and texture.

Paired with coffee: The rich chocolate flavor of these overnight oats pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or a latte. It’s like having a little dessert for breakfast!

For brunch: These overnight oats make a lovely addition to a brunch spread alongside fresh fruit, muffins, and scrambled eggs.

Additional Tips for Success

Here are some extra tips to ensure your Chocolate Cherry Overnight Oats turn out perfectly every time:

1. Use old-fashioned oats: Rolled oats work best for overnight oats because they absorb the liquid slowly and maintain a nice, chewy texture. Avoid quick oats, which can become mushy.

2. Adjust the sweetness: Depending on the ripeness of your cherries and your personal preference, you may want to adjust the amount of sweetener. Start with 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or honey and add more if needed.

3. Stir well: When mixing the ingredients, make sure the cocoa powder is evenly distributed to avoid any clumps. You want the chocolate flavor to infuse every bite!

4. Customize the consistency: If you prefer thicker oats, reduce the amount of almond milk slightly, or add a little extra yogurt. For a thinner consistency, add a splash of milk in the morning before serving.

5. Use fresh or frozen cherries: Both fresh and frozen cherries work well in this recipe. If using frozen cherries, they’ll soften overnight, adding a lovely juicy texture.

Recipe Variations

The beauty of overnight oats is that you can easily customize them to suit your tastes. Here are some variations of Chocolate Cherry Overnight Oats to try:

1. Vegan Chocolate Cherry Overnight Oats: Use a plant-based yogurt like almond or coconut yogurt, and swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar to make this recipe fully vegan.

2. Protein-Packed Oats: For an extra protein boost, add a scoop of your favorite chocolate or vanilla protein powder to the mix. You may need to add a bit more almond milk to balance the consistency.

3. Almond Joy Oats: Add shredded coconut and a handful of chopped almonds to the oats for a twist that tastes like the classic Almond Joy candy bar.

4. Chocolate Raspberry Overnight Oats: Swap the cherries for fresh or frozen raspberries for a tart, fruity contrast to the rich chocolate flavor.

5. Peanut Butter Cup Oats: Drizzle the finished oats with peanut butter or mix in a tablespoon of peanut butter with the oats for a flavor reminiscent of a chocolate peanut butter cup.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Cherry Overnight Oats are satisfying on their own, but if you’re looking to round out your breakfast, here are a few ideas:

Fresh Fruit Salad: Serve the oats alongside a fresh fruit salad with berries, melon, or citrus for a bright, refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate.

Smoothie: Pair your overnight oats with a green smoothie or a protein-packed shake for an extra dose of nutrients.

Coffee or Tea: Enjoy the oats with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a matcha latte for a cozy morning treat.

Toast: Serve with a slice of whole grain or sourdough toast topped with avocado or nut butter for a balanced breakfast.

#

Freezing and Storage

Overnight oats are perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store and freeze them:

Storage: Store the prepared oats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’ll continue to thicken the longer they sit, so you may want to add a splash of milk before serving if they’ve been in the fridge for a couple of days.

Freezing: If you want to make a big batch of overnight oats, you can freeze individual portions in airtight containers or freezer-safe jars for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and add your toppings in the morning.

Reheating: If you prefer warm oats, you can microwave them for 30-60 seconds until warmed through, though they’re traditionally eaten cold.

Special Equipment

You don’t need any fancy equipment to make Chocolate Cherry Overnight Oats, but here are a few tools that make the process even easier:

Mason jars or airtight containers: These are perfect for storing the oats overnight and for easy grab-and-go breakfasts.

Mixing bowl: Use a medium-sized mixing bowl to combine the oats, chia seeds, and cocoa powder before dividing them into individual containers.

Spoon or whisk: A whisk helps ensure the cocoa powder is evenly distributed throughout the mixture, while a spoon is great for stirring everything together.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Quick oats can be used, but the texture will be softer and more mushy. Rolled oats provide a better texture for overnight oats.

2. Can I make this without chia seeds?
Yes! The chia seeds help thicken the oats, but you can omit them if you don’t have any on hand. You may want to reduce the amount of liquid slightly if skipping the chia seeds.

3. How long do overnight oats last in the fridge?
Overnight oats will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give them a stir before eating, and add a splash of milk if they’ve thickened too much.

4. Can I use flavored yogurt instead of plain?
Absolutely! Flavored yogurt can add extra sweetness and flavor to the oats. Just be mindful of the added sugar if using sweetened yogurt.

5. Can I use other fruit besides cherries?
Definitely! While cherries pair beautifully with chocolate, you can swap them for raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, or even bananas.

6. Are overnight oats eaten cold or warm?
Traditionally, overnight oats are eaten cold, but if you prefer them warm, you can microwave them for 30-60 seconds before adding your toppings.

7. Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
Steel-cut oats won’t soften as much as rolled oats, but you can use them if you prefer a chewier texture. You may need to let them soak longer (overnight or up to 24 hours).

8. Can I add protein powder to the oats?
Yes! Protein powder is a great addition to overnight oats. You may need to add extra liquid to balance the consistency, as protein powder tends to thicken the mixture.

9. How can I make this recipe lower in sugar?
To reduce the sugar content, use less maple syrup or honey, or skip it altogether if the cherries are sweet enough. You can also use a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or monk fruit.

10. Can I make these oats nut-free?
Yes, just be sure to use a nut-free milk (like oat milk or coconut milk) and avoid any nut-based toppings.

Conclusion

There you have it—Chocolate Cherry Overnight Oats that are rich, indulgent, and incredibly easy to make! This is the perfect breakfast to satisfy your chocolate cravings while keeping things healthy and balanced. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a quick and delicious breakfast on the go, these oats will quickly become one of your favorite recipes.

I can’t wait for you to try this recipe! Don’t forget to share your chocolate cherry overnight oat creations on social media and tag me—I’d love to see how you make this recipe your own. Enjoy! 🍫🍒

Print