Cookie Dough Overnight Oats Recipe
If you have ever dreamed of having the best of both worlds—a sweet treat that feels like cookie dough but also gives you a nutritious and satisfying breakfast—then this Cookie Dough Overnight Oats Recipe is about to become your new obsession. It artfully combines the creamy texture of oats soaked overnight with the rich, indulgent flavors of peanut butter, chocolate chips, and a touch of maple syrup, making every spoonful feel like a little celebration. It’s simple, wholesome, and perfect for anyone who loves starting the day with something delicious but easy to prepare ahead of time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this Cookie Dough Overnight Oats Recipe. Each one plays a vital role not just in flavor but also in texture and nutrition, creating a balanced, crave-worthy breakfast that feels indulgent without any guilt.
- Rolled oats: These provide the hearty base and soak up all the flavors wonderfully while keeping the texture slightly chewy.
- Chia seeds: Packed with fiber and omega-3s, they help thicken the oats for that perfect pudding-like consistency.
- Mini chocolate chips: Tiny bursts of melty chocolate that mimic the taste of cookie dough in every bite.
- Protein powder: Choose your favorite whey or plant-based option for a filling boost that keeps you energized longer.
- Kosher salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the sweet flavors and balance the richness.
- Peanut or almond butter: Adds creaminess, healthy fats, and a nutty undertone that brings the recipe to life.
- Maple syrup: Natural sweetness that blends perfectly without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Vanilla extract: A splash to elevate the flavors and give that warm cookie dough aroma.
- Milk: Use almond, cashew, or dairy milk depending on your preference; it hydrates the oats and rounds out the creaminess.
How to Make Cookie Dough Overnight Oats Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Start by gathering your rolled oats, chia seeds, mini chocolate chips, protein powder, and a pinch of kosher salt in a large bowl. Stir them together well. Mixing these dry components evenly ensures that every bite delivers a balanced flavor, especially the chocolate chips that provide those delightful little surprises.
Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients
Next, stir in the peanut or almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and your choice of milk. Combine everything thoroughly until the peanut butter is well incorporated and the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step brings the cookie dough vibe to life and makes sure each spoonful feels lush and rich.
Step 3: Refrigerate Overnight
Divide the mixture into four jars or bowls, cover them tightly, and pop them into the fridge for at least three hours—but preferably overnight. This slow soaking process allows the oats and chia seeds to absorb all those gorgeous flavors and swell to the perfect pudding-like consistency we all crave in overnight oats.
Step 4: Enjoy Your Oats
In the morning, give your oats a good stir. You can eat them cold straight from the fridge for a refreshing breakfast, or warm them up in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute if you prefer a cozier, comforting start to your day.
How to Serve Cookie Dough Overnight Oats Recipe
Garnishes
Top your Cookie Dough Overnight Oats Recipe with a sprinkle of extra mini chocolate chips, some chopped nuts, or a drizzle of peanut butter to add texture and amplify the flavors. Fresh berries or a few slices of banana can bring a fresh, fruity balance that complements the rich, sweet notes perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pairing your oats with a side of fresh fruit, like a citrus salad or juicy melon slices, adds brightness and contrast. A simple green smoothie on the side also makes for a nutrient-packed combo that keeps the meal light but filling.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the oats layered in a tall glass jar with alternating scoops and garnishes for an Instagram-worthy parfait. Or, for a fun twist, freeze the mixture in popsicle molds overnight, then enjoy cookie dough-flavored breakfast pops straight from the freezer!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you make extra or want to prepare breakfasts for several days, store your Cookie Dough Overnight Oats Recipe in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making each serving taste even better than the last.
Freezing
While overnight oats are best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated, you can freeze them if necessary. Transfer into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and stir well before serving.
Reheating
When reheating, give your oats a quick zap in the microwave for 30 seconds to one minute, depending on your preferred temperature. Add a splash of milk if they feel too thick after warming up to bring back that soft, creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use rolled oats in this recipe?
Absolutely! Rolled oats are perfect for overnight oats since they absorb liquid well without becoming mushy, giving you that creamy yet textured result.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free rolled oats, this Cookie Dough Overnight Oats Recipe is completely gluten-free.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Definitely. Just swap the protein powder for a plant-based one, use your favorite nut butter, and choose a dairy-free milk like almond or cashew milk to keep everything vegan-friendly.
How long do overnight oats last in the fridge?
These oats will stay fresh for up to 4 days when stored properly in airtight containers, making them a great meal prep option.
Can I add other mix-ins?
Of course! Feel free to toss in nuts, dried fruit, or seeds to tailor the recipe to your taste. Just keep an eye on the texture and sweetness balance.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a breakfast that feels like a treat yet gives you a wholesome start, you’ve got to try this Cookie Dough Overnight Oats Recipe. It’s straightforward, satisfying, and makes your mornings something to look forward to. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a beloved staple in every busy kitchen.
Print
Cookie Dough Overnight Oats Recipe
- Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in the creamy, chocolatey goodness of Cookie Dough Overnight Oats, a quick and healthy make-ahead breakfast featuring rolled oats, chia seeds, mini chocolate chips, protein powder, and nut butter. This recipe is perfect for busy mornings and offers a satisfying, nutritious start to your day with minimal prep and no cooking required.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats (use gluten-free oats for a gluten-free version)
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 2 tbsp mini chocolate chips (dark or milk chocolate)
- 1 scoop protein powder (whey or plant-based)
- 1 pinch kosher salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 tbsp peanut butter or almond butter
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk (almond, cashew, or dairy milk)
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the rolled oats, chia seeds, mini chocolate chips, protein powder, and a pinch of kosher salt until evenly combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in the peanut butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and milk until the mixture is fully combined and creamy.
- Portion and Refrigerate: Divide the oat mixture evenly into 4 jars or bowls. Cover each container and refrigerate overnight or for at least 3 hours to allow the oats and chia seeds to absorb the liquid and soften.
- Serve: In the morning, stir the oats well. Enjoy them cold straight from the fridge or warm for 30 seconds to 1 minute in the microwave if you prefer a warm breakfast.
Notes
- You can substitute the milk with any plant-based or dairy milk to fit dietary preferences.
- For a vegan version, ensure your protein powder and chocolate chips are vegan-friendly.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup according to taste.
- Add fresh fruit or nuts as toppings for additional texture and flavor.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
