Start your day with a decadent yet wholesome breakfast with these Almond Joy Overnight Oats.
Packed with fiber-rich oats, plant-based protein from almonds, and healthy fats from coconut, this creamy, naturally sweetened recipe is a nutritious treat that’s ready in minutes.
Perfect for meal prep, it’s satisfying, energizing, and makes mornings effortless without compromising flavor.
Almond Joy Overnight Oats
Equipment
- 1 mason jar or small bowl
- 1 spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
Base:
- ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- ½ cup coconut milk or any preferred plant-based milk
- 1 tablespoon shredded coconut
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- Pinch of kosher salt
Toppings:
- 7 almonds chopped
- 1 square dark chocolate chopped
- Pinch of shredded coconut
Instructions
- Prepare Your Container: Choose a clean mason jar, small bowl, or any airtight container you prefer. A mason jar works especially well because it allows for easy layering and storage. Make sure it’s completely dry before adding ingredients to prevent any unwanted moisture from affecting the oats’ texture.
- Combine the Base Ingredients: In your chosen container, add ½ cup of old-fashioned rolled oats. Rolled oats are perfect for overnight soaking because they soften without turning mushy. Next, pour in ½ cup of coconut milk or your preferred milk alternative. This will provide a creamy texture and a hint of natural sweetness. Add 1 tablespoon of shredded coconut, which contributes flavor and healthy fats, a teaspoon of maple syrup for gentle sweetness, and a pinch of kosher salt to balance all the flavors.
- Mix Thoroughly: Using a spoon or spatula, gently stir all the base ingredients together until well combined. Make sure the oats are evenly coated with the coconut milk, maple syrup, and coconut. This step ensures every bite will have a consistent flavor and texture, with the coconut and sweetness evenly distributed throughout the oats.
- Add Toppings Thoughtfully: Once the base is mixed, it’s time to add the fun part: the toppings. Sprinkle 7 chopped almonds over the oats for crunch and plant-based protein.Chop 1 square of dark chocolate into small pieces and scatter it evenly on top—these little pockets of chocolate will melt slightly as the oats absorb the milk, creating delightful bursts of flavor. Finally, finish with a small pinch of shredded coconut for extra texture and a visually appealing touch.
- Cover and Refrigerate: Secure the container with a tight-fitting lid or cover it with plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator and allow the oats to soak overnight or for at least 4 hours. During this time, the oats will absorb the liquid and soften, while the flavors of coconut, chocolate, and almonds meld beautifully, creating a rich, creamy texture.
- Enjoy Your Breakfast: When ready to eat, remove the oats from the fridge. Give them a gentle stir to mix the toppings with the base. You can enjoy them cold directly from the fridge or let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes if you prefer a slightly less chilled breakfast. Optional: add extra maple syrup, chocolate, or coconut on top for a more indulgent experience.
- Storage and Make-Ahead Tips: These overnight oats can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them ideal for meal prep. Simply prepare multiple jars at once and grab one each morning for a quick, satisfying, and nutritious breakfast. The flavors deepen over time, so they taste even better the next day.
Notes
- Coconut milk can be substituted with any plant-based milk or regular milk. Whole milk gives a creamier texture.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup depending on preference.
- Use either sweetened or unsweetened shredded coconut based on taste and dietary goals.
- For a stronger chocolate flavor, switch to milk chocolate or add an extra chocolate square.
- Prep multiple servings at once for easy meal prep and grab-and-go breakfasts.
- Rolled oats work best; quick oats may become too mushy, and steel-cut oats require longer soaking.
Chef’s Secrets To Perfect Oats
To make your overnight oats truly irresistible, focus on the balance of liquid and texture.
Always use rolled oats—they absorb the milk well and maintain a satisfying chew.
Don’t skimp on a pinch of salt; it enhances the sweetness and richness of the coconut and chocolate.
For added creaminess, stir in a teaspoon of nut butter before refrigerating.
Layering toppings instead of mixing them in preserves crunch and visual appeal.
Finally, let the oats rest for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld fully.
Serving Suggestions For Best Flavor
Almond Joy Overnight Oats shine as a standalone breakfast, but you can elevate the experience with simple accompaniments.
Add fresh berries, banana slices, or a dollop of yogurt for extra creaminess.
Drizzle a touch of maple syrup or honey over the top for added sweetness if desired.
Serve with a cup of coffee, tea, or a green smoothie to create a balanced morning meal.
These oats also make a delightful mid-morning snack or light dessert.
Storage Tips For Make-Ahead Meals
Overnight oats are a meal-prep hero. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keep toppings like almonds and chocolate separate if you prefer them crunchy, and add them just before serving.
Avoid leaving oats at room temperature for long periods, as the milk base can spoil.
If the mixture thickens too much after a day or two, simply stir in a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Use coconut milk, almond milk, soy milk, or any plant-based milk. The recipe is naturally plant-based if you avoid dairy chocolate and opt for vegan chocolate instead.
2. Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?
Absolutely. Walnuts, pecans, or cashews are great alternatives. Just chop them roughly to maintain crunch and add healthy fats and protein.
3. Can I make more than one serving at a time?
Definitely. Simply multiply the ingredients and prepare in individual jars for convenient meal prep. This makes it easy to grab a nutritious breakfast on busy mornings.
4. Can I warm the overnight oats?
Yes, though these oats are intended to be eaten cold. If preferred warm, microwave for 30–60 seconds, stirring occasionally, and add a splash of milk if needed for creaminess.
5. How can I make it sweeter or more indulgent?
Add extra maple syrup, a few more chocolate pieces, or sprinkle additional shredded coconut. You can also stir in a teaspoon of nut butter for richer flavor and creaminess without overpowering the natural balance.
