Craving dessert for breakfast without the sugar crash? Hot Chocolate Overnight Oats deliver the comforting taste of your favorite winter treat with the energy boost you need to power through your morning. Creamy, chocolaty, and with the perfect balance of sweetness and fiber, this no-cook breakfast is both indulgent and good for you.

Each spoonful feels like a hug in a jar — packed with hearty oats, chia seeds, rich cocoa, and just enough chocolate chips to make your taste buds dance. Plus, it takes just minutes to prep the night before, so you can wake up to a grab-and-go jar of joy.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

For the best Hot Chocolate Overnight Oats, a few basic tools make all the difference:

Mason Jars or Meal Prep Containers: These keep your oats sealed and portable, and are perfect for layering ingredients.
Whisk or Spoon: To mix the cocoa powder thoroughly with the milk so it dissolves without clumping.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision helps you maintain the creamy texture and balanced flavor.
Refrigerator: Chilling overnight is crucial to soften the oats and activate the chia seeds for a pudding-like texture.

With the right tools and just five minutes of prep, you’ll be on your way to a dreamy, nutritious breakfast.

Ingredients for the Hot Chocolate Overnight Oats

Rolled Oats: These form the hearty, chewy base and absorb the liquid overnight.
Chia Seeds: Essential for thickening the mixture and adding fiber and omega-3s.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Delivers that deep hot chocolate flavor without added sugar.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Natural sweeteners that blend beautifully with the chocolate.
Milk of Choice (dairy or non-dairy): Provides creaminess and activates the oats.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances the cocoa and rounds out the flavor.
Mini Chocolate Chips: Stirred in or sprinkled on top for a chocolatey punch.
Greek Yogurt or Whipped Cream (optional topping): Adds richness and a creamy dessert vibe.

How To Make the Hot Chocolate Overnight Oats

Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a mason jar or bowl, add 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1 tablespoon chia seeds, and 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder. Stir until evenly mixed.

Step 2: Sweeten and Flavor

Pour in 1 tablespoon of maple syrup (or honey) and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. These add depth and warmth to your oats.

Step 3: Add the Liquid

Slowly pour in 3/4 cup of your milk of choice. Whisk or stir well to combine, making sure the cocoa dissolves completely.

Step 4: Chill Overnight

Seal the jar or container and refrigerate overnight. The oats and chia will soak up the liquid, resulting in a luscious, pudding-like consistency by morning.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

In the morning, give it a quick stir. Top with mini chocolate chips and a dollop of Greek yogurt or whipped cream. A light dusting of cocoa or cinnamon makes a lovely final touch.

Serving and Storing This Chocolatey Delight

Hot Chocolate Overnight Oats are best served chilled straight from the fridge, but if you prefer a warm breakfast, feel free to microwave the jar for 30–60 seconds. Just be sure to use a microwave-safe container.

These oats will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making them a perfect make-ahead option for busy mornings. Prepare a few jars at once and rotate your toppings to keep breakfast exciting all week long.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do overnight oats last in the fridge?

They stay fresh for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. Make sure to stir before eating if any separation occurs.

Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?

Steel-cut oats don’t soften the same way overnight. Stick with rolled oats for the ideal texture.

What can I use instead of maple syrup?

Honey, agave, or even mashed banana are great natural sweetener alternatives.

Is it okay to use water instead of milk?

Yes, but the oats will be less creamy. A splash of milk or yogurt in the morning can help balance it out.

Can I add protein powder?

Absolutely! Add a scoop of your favorite chocolate or vanilla protein powder when mixing the ingredients. You might need to adjust the milk to keep the consistency smooth.

Are these oats gluten-free?

They can be! Just make sure to use certified gluten-free rolled oats.

Want More Breakfast-Inspired Dessert Ideas?

If you’re into indulgent morning bites that taste like dessert, you’re in the right place. You might also like the Raspberry Crescent Rolls, a flaky and fruity option that’s great for brunch spreads.

Or cozy up with the Cinnamon Donut Bread for something that pairs beautifully with your morning coffee. If you’re a chocolate lover, don’t skip the Decadent Chocolate S’mores Cupcakes.

More fruit-forward? Try the Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries — elegant, creamy, and quick to assemble.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your breakfast or dessert boards for next time. Just click the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you switch up the toppings? Add espresso powder for a mocha twist? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others make it their own.

For more daily recipe inspiration, you can also follow me on Pinterest at LadyPlate.

Hot Chocolate Overnight Oats

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Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 5 minutes + overnight chill
Yield: 1 serving
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Start your morning with a comforting jar of Hot Chocolate Overnight Oats. This creamy, chocolaty breakfast is loaded with fiber, healthy fats, and a touch of sweetness. It preps in minutes and chills overnight to give you a pudding-like texture by morning. Whether you enjoy it cold or slightly warmed, it’s a wholesome indulgence that tastes like dessert but fuels your day right.