Red Velvet Overnight Oats are a fun and tasty way to start your day! With cocoa powder, yogurt, and a hint of vanilla, you get a sweet twist on traditional oats.
They’re creamy, colorful, and super easy to prepare. I love making them the night before, so breakfast is ready when I am. Who wouldn’t want cake for breakfast? 🎂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Use rolled oats for the best texture; they soak up the liquid well. Quick oats can work, but they might get mushy. If gluten is a concern, look for gluten-free oats.
Milk: Any milk works here! Dairy milk is great, but almond, soy, or oat milk are excellent plant-based options. Choose based on your taste preference or dietary needs.
Greek Yogurt: I love Greek yogurt for its thickness and protein, but regular yogurt or a dairy-free alternative can be used if you prefer. Just keep the flavor in mind.
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa is perfect for that chocolatey depth. If you want something sweeter, try using cacao powder instead for a more intense flavor.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Adjust the sweetness according to your taste! Agave nectar or a sugar substitute can also be great options if you’re looking for alternatives.
Raspberries: Fresh is best, but frozen works well too! They’ll add color and a tart flavor. If you don’t have raspberries, try strawberries or cherries!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Consistency for Overnight Oats?
Getting the right consistency for overnight oats is key for a delicious breakfast. Here’s how to ensure your oats turn out creamy and delightful.
- Use a balanced ratio of oats to liquid. The typical ratio is 1:1 for rolled oats. Adjust according to how thick or thin you prefer your oats.
- Chia seeds not only add texture but also act as a thickening agent. If you want more creaminess, consider adding more yogurt or milk.
- Allow the oats to soak for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best. This gives them time to absorb the liquid and achieve the right texture.
Finally, if you find your oats too thick in the morning, add a splash of milk to loosen them up before serving! Enjoy your vibrant, red velvet treat!
Red Velvet Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/3 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 to 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp chia seeds (optional, for thickening)
- 1/4 cup fresh or frozen raspberries (for vibrant red color and tartness)
- White chocolate chips or shredded coconut (for topping/garnish)
- Sliced almonds (for topping/garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes just about 15 minutes of prep time. Then, you’ll need to let it chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours, but overnight is even better! This allows all the flavors to blend beautifully and gives the oats time to soak up the liquid.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base Ingredients:
In a bowl or jar, mix together the rolled oats, cocoa powder, chia seeds (if you’re using them), and milk. Stir well with a spoon or a whisk to ensure that the cocoa powder is evenly distributed throughout the mix.
2. Add the Creamy Goodness:
Next, introduce the Greek yogurt, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract into the mix. Stir thoroughly until you have a smooth and creamy consistency. This is where the magic happens!
3. Infuse the Flavors:
Now, gently fold in the raspberries, being careful not to mash them all. You want to maintain a bit of their shape for that beautiful red velvet look. If you want some of the raspberries to blend in, feel free to mash a few for more vibrant color and flavor!
4. Let It Set:
Cover your mixture with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill overnight, or for at least 4 hours, so the oats and chia seeds can absorb the delightful flavors and transform into a thick and creamy dish.
5. Time to Serve:
When you’re ready to enjoy, take the jar from the fridge and give it a good stir. Spoon the oats into your favorite serving jar or bowl for a delightful breakfast experience.
6. Add Toppings:
For the final touch, add a dollop of Greek yogurt on top, sprinkle with white chocolate chips or shredded coconut, and finish with some sliced almonds for a lovely crunch.
7. Dig In!
Enjoy your Red Velvet Overnight Oats chilled as a delightful and nutritious breakfast or snack that tastes like dessert!
This recipe perfectly balances the rich cocoa tones with vibrant raspberry swirls, giving you the charming experience of red velvet cake in a healthy oat format.
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
While you can use instant oats, I recommend sticking with rolled oats for the best texture. Instant oats absorb liquid quickly and may become mushy, whereas rolled oats maintain a nice chewiness even after soaking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, simply substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative (like almond or coconut yogurt) and use maple syrup for sweetness. Also, ensure your milk is plant-based, like almond, oat, or soy milk!
Can I Use Other Berries Instead of Raspberries?
Absolutely! While raspberries add a lovely tartness and bright color, you can use strawberries, blueberries, or even blackberries. Just keep in mind that some berries may alter the final flavor slightly.
How Long Do Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Your Red Velvet Overnight Oats can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to keep them in an airtight container. If they get too thick when refrigerated, you can add a splash of milk to loosen them up before serving!
