These Red Velvet Overnight Oats are a fun and tasty twist on breakfast! With rich cocoa and a hint of vanilla, they look and taste like dessert but are healthy too.
Who knew oats could be so fun? I love waking up to a pretty jar of these oats, ready to go. Top them with some cream cheese yogurt for that extra red velvet vibe! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled oats: These are the backbone of the recipe, providing texture and health benefits. Quick oats can work in a pinch but may make the mixture a bit mushy.
Chia seeds: They add fiber and help thicken the oats. If you’re not a fan, you can omit them or replace with ground flax seeds for a similar effect.
Cocoa powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder gives that rich chocolate flavor. If you prefer a sweeter option, use a chocolate protein powder instead.
Maple syrup or honey: Both sweeteners enhance the flavor. Maple syrup gives a unique depth, but honey is also a great natural alternative.
Milk: Use any milk you like—almond, oat, or regular dairy all work well. If you want to make it dairy-free, stick to plant-based options.
Raspberries: Fresh are best for flavor, but frozen ones work too. If allergies or availability is an issue, try using strawberries or cherries for a different twist.
Greek yogurt or cream cheese yogurt: They add creaminess and protein. You can substitute with regular yogurt if you prefer a lighter option.
How Can I Get My Oats to Soak Perfectly Overnight?
Getting the oats to soak correctly is key for achieving that creamy texture. Here’s how to make sure they turn out great:
- Use enough liquid: Make sure you measure correctly and have the right ratio of oats to liquid for the mix.
- Stir well: After combining all ingredients, give it a good stir to ensure everything is mixed evenly.
- Choose the right container: A jar or bowl with a lid works best to keep everything fresh and allows for easy mixing.
- Give it time: Aim for at least 6 hours, but overnight works best to ensure the oats are perfectly soft.
And remember, if they seem too thick the next day, a little extra milk will fix that right up!
Red Velvet Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 cup milk of choice (almond, oat, dairy, etc.)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fresh or frozen raspberries (for the red color and flavor)
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or cream cheese yogurt (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon dark chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips (for topping)
- Optional: a pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe needs about 10 minutes of prep time, and it’s best to let the oats soak in the fridge for at least 6 hours or overnight. So, if you prepare them in the evening, you’ll have a delicious breakfast ready for the next morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Raspberry Puree:
Start by blending the raspberries in a blender or food processor until smooth. This vibrant red puree will give your oats that beautiful red velvet color, so make sure it’s nicely blended without any lumps!
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl or jar, combine the rolled oats, chia seeds, cocoa powder, and if you’re using it, a pinch of salt. Mixing everything together will ensure an even distribution of flavors in every bite.
3. Mix in the Wet Ingredients:
Add the raspberry puree, maple syrup (or honey), milk, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Stir well until everything is combined and the oats are fully coated in the mixture. The goal is to have a smooth, homogenous blend.
4. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover the bowl or seal the jar with a lid and place it in the fridge. Let it chill for at least 6 hours or overnight. This soaking time is what makes the oats tender and creamy!
5. Check the Consistency:
The next morning, take your oats out of the fridge. Give them a good stir and check how thick they are. If they seem too thick for your liking, add a splash more milk and stir to combine.
6. Serve and Top:
Spoon the oats into serving glasses or bowls. Top each serving with a dollop of Greek yogurt or cream cheese yogurt for that creamy finish. Sprinkle dark chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips on top for an extra special touch!
7. Enjoy:
Dig in and enjoy your Red Velvet Overnight Oats cold, straight from the fridge. It’s a nutritious and indulgent way to start your day!
With rich flavors and a fun twist on breakfast, these oats are sure to become a favorite!
Can I Substitute the Raspberries?
Absolutely! If raspberries aren’t your favorite or they aren’t in season, you can substitute them with strawberries, cherries, or even blueberries. Each fruit will bring a different flavor, but they will all add a beautiful color to your oats!
How Do I Store Leftover Overnight Oats?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give them a good stir before eating, and you can add a splash of milk if they’ve thickened too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes, it’s easy to make this recipe vegan! Simply use maple syrup as the sweetener, and choose a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. For the yogurt topping, opt for a dairy-free yogurt or omit it for a lighter option.
Can I Add Additional Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with toppings. Some delicious options include sliced bananas, chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or a drizzle of nut butter. These additions will not only enhance the flavor but also provide extra nutrients!
