If breakfast could give you the same warm-fuzzy feeling as licking the spoon from a bowl of cookie dough—without the sugar crash—these Cookie Dough Overnight Oats are it.
They’re creamy, rich, sweet-but-not-too-sweet, and full of all the classic cookie dough flavors (think vanilla, brown sugar, and mini chocolate chips). The best part? They’re loaded with whole grains, fiber, and plant-based protein, making them as nutritious as they are indulgent.
Dessert-Inspired Breakfast? Yes, Please!
Let’s be honest—we all love sneaking a spoonful of cookie dough before the cookies go in the oven. That soft texture, that hint of vanilla, those melty bits of chocolate… it’s nostalgic and irresistible. But what if I told you that you could have that same experience at breakfast and actually feel good about it?
That’s exactly what these Cookie Dough Overnight Oats deliver. They use wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, almond milk, chia seeds, and a touch of nut butter to mimic the texture and flavor of cookie dough—without the processed sugar or butter. Mini chocolate chips make it feel like a treat, and a splash of vanilla extract and a touch of maple syrup bring in that classic sweetness.
Kids absolutely love it, adults feel like they’re getting a cheat meal, and it’s all prepped in under 10 minutes the night before. No cooking, no fuss—just grab, stir, and enjoy.
What You’ll Need
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1 tablespoon nut butter (almond, cashew, or peanut)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon mini chocolate chips
- Pinch of sea salt
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 tablespoon vegan protein powder (vanilla works best)
- 1 teaspoon flaxseed meal
- Crushed walnuts or pecans
- Coconut flakes
Pro Tips
- Use mini chocolate chips – They distribute better and give that classic cookie dough texture in every bite.
- Don’t skip the salt – Just a pinch brings out the sweetness and mimics the flavor of real cookie dough.
- Make it thicker or thinner – Add more or less almond milk depending on how creamy you like your oats.
- Stir twice – Mix once when prepping and again after 15 minutes to break up any chia seed clumps.
- Want it extra indulgent? Add a tiny splash of almond extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mason jar or sealable container
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon for stirring
- Refrigerator for chilling
Substitutions and Variations
- Gluten-free? Use certified gluten-free oats.
- Nut-free? Swap almond butter for sunflower seed butter.
- Low-sugar? Skip the maple syrup and use mashed banana for sweetness.
- Dairy-free? This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but double-check your chocolate chips to be sure.
- More protein? Add a scoop of protein powder or a tablespoon of hemp seeds.
Make-Ahead Tips
These oats are best when chilled for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal for the creamiest texture. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 5 days, making them perfect for meal prep.
You can even prep 3–4 jars at once and mix in different toppings like coconut flakes, walnuts, or cinnamon so you don’t get bored during the week.
How to Make Cookie Dough Overnight Oats
1. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a mason jar or bowl, mix rolled oats, chia seeds, mini chocolate chips, and a pinch of sea salt.
2. Add Wet Ingredients
Pour in almond milk, nut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well combined.
3. Let Sit, Stir Again, and Chill
Let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes, then stir again to make sure the chia seeds are evenly distributed. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Add Toppings and Serve
In the morning, give it a quick stir. Add extra chocolate chips, a drizzle of nut butter, or any other toppings you like. Enjoy straight from the jar or transfer to a bowl.
Leftovers and Storage
Store leftovers in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 5 days. If the oats thicken too much, stir in a splash of almond milk before serving.
Great for grab-and-go breakfasts or even an afternoon pick-me-up. You can also freeze portions in small containers and defrost overnight in the fridge.
All the Flavor, None of the Guilt
These Cookie Dough Overnight Oats give you everything you love about dessert—in a meal that fuels you through your morning. With wholesome ingredients, a no-cook method, and endless customization options, they’re an easy win for breakfast lovers and cookie dough fanatics alike.
Make a batch tonight, and let me know—did you go classic, or add a twist like cinnamon, banana, or protein powder? Drop your version in the comments below. Let’s make breakfast fun again!
