Are you ready to enjoy a delicious and healthy breakfast? Chocolate Hazelnut Overnight Oats Protein Delight is your answer! This easy recipe combines rich chocolate and nutty hazelnut flavors with protein for a satisfying start to your day. With simple steps and tasty variations, you’ll crave this treat daily. Join me as we dive into the ingredients, tips, and everything you need to get started on this delightful journey!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 cups almond milk (or milk of your choice)
– 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
– 3 tablespoons chocolate hazelnut spread (like Nutella)
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, adjust to taste)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– A pinch of salt
– Toppings: sliced banana, chopped hazelnuts, and dark chocolate shavings
Nutrition Information
These chocolate hazelnut overnight oats provide a good mix of nutrients. Each serving offers fiber from oats and chia seeds, protein from the nuts, and healthy fats from the hazelnuts. The cocoa powder gives a rich chocolate taste without too much sugar. Each jar is about 300-400 calories, depending on the toppings you choose.
Recommended Brands
For the best flavor, I recommend using:
– Rolled oats: Bob’s Red Mill or Quaker
– Almond milk: Silk or Califia Farms
– Cocoa powder: Ghirardelli or Hershey’s
– Chocolate hazelnut spread: Nutella or Justin’s
– Chia seeds: Nutiva or Spectrum
– Maple syrup: Grade A from Maple Grove Farms or Coombs Family Farms
Using these brands helps ensure quality and taste in your dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Dry Ingredients
Start by gathering your dry ingredients. You need:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– A pinch of salt
In a medium bowl, mix these items well. This step ensures the oats soak up all the flavors. Make sure the cocoa powder blends fully with the oats.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
Next, let’s move to the wet ingredients. You will need:
– 2 cups almond milk (or milk of your choice)
– 3 tablespoons chocolate hazelnut spread
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
In a separate bowl, whisk these together. Blend until the chocolate hazelnut spread fully dissolves. This creamy mix adds richness to the oats.
Combining and Storing
Now, it’s time to combine both mixtures. Pour the wet mix into the dry ingredients. Stir well until everything is coated. You want no dry clumps left.
Next, divide the oat mix into two jars. Seal them tightly with lids. Place the jars in the fridge overnight. This helps the oats absorb the liquid and soften.
When you are ready, stir the oats and add your favorite toppings. Enjoy them cold with sliced banana, chopped hazelnuts, and dark chocolate shavings. They make a great breakfast or snack!
Tips & Tricks
Best Ways to Customize Your Overnight Oats
You can make your chocolate hazelnut overnight oats your own. Try adding different fruits like berries, apples, or pears. For extra crunch, toss in some granola or seeds. You can also switch the chocolate hazelnut spread with other nut butters. Almond or cashew butter can create new flavors. Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup.
How to Achieve the Perfect Consistency
To get the best texture, use the right liquid-to-oat ratio. I suggest using 2 cups of almond milk for every cup of oats. The chia seeds help add creaminess, too. If you want thicker oats, reduce the liquid slightly. If you prefer a runnier mix, add a splash more milk. After refrigerating, stir the oats well before serving.
Presentation Tips for Serving
Make your oats look as good as they taste. Use clear jars to show off the layers. Drizzle more chocolate hazelnut spread on top for a fancy touch. Add your toppings like sliced bananas and chopped hazelnuts for color and texture. A sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings can elevate the look. Enjoy your creation cold for a refreshing breakfast.
Variations
Different Nut Butters and Sweeteners
You can switch nut butters in this recipe. Try almond butter or peanut butter. Each one gives a unique taste. If you want a healthier option, use sunflower seed butter. For sweeteners, maple syrup is great. You can also try honey or agave. Each sweetener changes the flavor a bit. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
Dairy-Free Alternatives
If you need a dairy-free option, almond milk works well. You can also try oat milk or coconut milk. Each milk type adds its own flavor. They keep the oats creamy and delicious. Make sure to pick a milk without added sugar for a healthy choice.
Flavor Add-ins and Toppings
You can add other flavors to your overnight oats. Try adding cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. You can also mix in some vanilla protein powder for an extra boost. For toppings, sliced banana and chopped hazelnuts are perfect. Dark chocolate shavings add a sweet touch. You can even add berries or coconut flakes for variety. Each add-in makes your breakfast more fun and tasty.
Storage Info
How to Properly Store Overnight Oats
To keep your chocolate hazelnut overnight oats fresh, use airtight containers. Jars work great. Make sure the lids seal tightly. Store them in the fridge. This keeps the oats cold and tasty.
Shelf Life and Freshness
These oats stay good for up to five days in the fridge. The longer they sit, the softer they get. Check for any off smells or changes in color. If it looks or smells bad, throw it away.
Reheating Tips
You can eat these oats cold, but some like them warm. If you want to reheat, put them in a bowl. Add a splash of milk for moisture. Heat in the microwave for 30 seconds. Stir and check if it’s warm enough. Enjoy it fresh!
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats. They will soften faster and change the texture. Quick oats make your overnight oats creamier. However, they may lose some chewiness. If you prefer a heartier bite, stick with rolled oats.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
You can easily make this recipe vegan. Just swap out regular milk for almond milk or another plant milk. You can also use a plant-based chocolate hazelnut spread. Look for brands that don’t use dairy. This will keep your oats tasty and vegan-friendly.
Can I prepare these oats for meal prep?
Absolutely! These oats are perfect for meal prep. You can make a batch and store them in jars. Just divide the mixture into as many jars as you need. Seal them tightly and keep them in the fridge. They stay fresh for up to five days. This way, you have a healthy breakfast ready for busy mornings.
Overnight oats are easy to make and fun to customize. We covered the key ingredients, nutrition information, and some top brands. I shared step-by-step instructions to mix and store your oats perfectly. With helpful tips, I showed you how to adjust flavors and improve presentation. We also explored various nut butters and dairy-free options.
Remember, proper storage is essential for freshness. Follow my tips to enjoy delicious oats for days. By following these guidelines, you can create overnight oats that are not only tasty but also fit your dietary needs. Enjoy the journey of making your own unique creations!
