A dreamy, decadent breakfast that tastes like dessert—these Chocolate Coconut Overnight Oats are creamy, rich, and totally satisfying. They’re easy to prep, full of fiber and healthy fats, and 100% plant-based!
A Sweet Morning Escape in a Jar
If your mornings are anything like mine—fast-paced, busy, and slightly chaotic—you’ll love this make-ahead breakfast that feels like a treat but fuels you like a pro.
These Chocolate Coconut Overnight Oats are my go-to when I want something cozy, chocolatey, and nourishing, without touching the stove.
They’re rich and creamy thanks to a combo of rolled oats, chia seeds, and canned coconut milk. Unsweetened cocoa adds the chocolatey depth, while a touch of maple syrup brings just the right amount of natural sweetness.
Stir it all together the night before, and by morning, you’ll have a jar of pure bliss waiting for you. It’s family-friendly, endlessly customizable, and a perfect option for meal prepping. Plus, this version is totally vegan and can be made gluten-free as well.
Add your favorite toppings—banana slices, coconut flakes, dark chocolate chips, or fresh berries—for that perfect bite.
What You’ll Need
- ½ cup rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup canned full-fat coconut milk (for richness)
- ¼ cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Optional Toppings:
- Toasted coconut flakes
- Banana slices
- Dark chocolate chips or shavings
- Berries (raspberries or strawberries are perfect!)
- Nut butter drizzle (almond or peanut)
Pro Tips
- Use canned coconut milk – For a truly creamy, luxurious texture, full-fat canned coconut milk is the key.
- Mix cocoa powder into milk first – This helps avoid clumps and creates a smoother chocolate base.
- Stir twice – Mix once after combining and again 10 minutes later to keep chia seeds from clumping.
- Let it sit overnight – While 4 hours is fine, overnight gives the oats the best texture and flavor.
- Add toppings just before serving – This keeps everything fresh and adds contrasting texture.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mason jar or sealable container
- Mixing bowl (optional if not mixing in the jar)
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Whisk or spoon
- Knife and cutting board for toppings
Substitutions and Variations
- No coconut milk? Use all almond milk, but the oats will be less creamy—add a spoonful of nut butter to enrich it.
- Want more sweetness? Add extra maple syrup or a few drops of stevia or monk fruit.
- No chia seeds? Replace with ground flaxseed or leave out (reduce the milk slightly).
- Boost the protein – Add a scoop of chocolate or vanilla protein powder and increase milk accordingly.
- Make it mocha – Stir in 1 teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder.
Make-Ahead Tips
These overnight oats are made for meal prep! Store in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can prep multiple jars at once and simply grab one each morning.
Wait to add toppings until the day you plan to eat them for the best flavor and texture.
How to Make Chocolate Coconut Overnight Oats
1. Mix the Chocolate Base
In a bowl or mason jar, whisk together coconut milk, almond milk, cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla, and sea salt until smooth.
2. Add Oats and Chia Seeds
Stir in the rolled oats and chia seeds until fully combined. Let sit for 5–10 minutes, then stir again to break up any clumps.
3. Chill Overnight
Seal the jar or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency.
4. Add Toppings and Serve
Before serving, give the oats a quick stir. Top with your favorite additions like toasted coconut flakes, banana slices, berries, or dark chocolate.
Leftovers and Storage
These overnight oats store beautifully for up to 5 days in the fridge. Just stir and add a splash of milk if they become too thick.
You can also prep individual servings in jars to grab and go in the morning. Keep toppings separate until serving time to maintain freshness and texture.
Dessert Vibes, Breakfast Benefits
These Chocolate Coconut Overnight Oats are proof that breakfast can be both indulgent and nourishing.
With just the right amount of chocolate, the creaminess of coconut, and the boost of fiber and healthy fats from chia and oats, this is a recipe that satisfies every craving—without the sugar crash.
Try it once, and you’ll be hooked. And if you do, I’d love to hear about it! Did you add berries? Boost it with protein powder? Make it extra decadent with chocolate drizzle? Leave a comment and let me know how you made this chocolatey jar of joy your own!
