These Red Velvet Overnight Oats are sweet and fun, perfect for breakfast lovers! With cocoa powder and a splash of vanilla, they taste just like dessert but are super healthy.
Honestly, who knew oats could be so exciting? I like to add a dollop of cream cheese yogurt on top for that extra touch of red velvet goodness. You’ll be looking forward to breakfast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are perfect for overnight oats because they soak up the liquids nicely. You can substitute with quick oats in a pinch, but avoid steel-cut oats as they won’t soften properly overnight.
Milk: Use any milk you prefer! Almond, soy, or oat milk are great dairy-free options. I like almond milk for a nutty flavor, but feel free to go with what you enjoy.
Greek Yogurt: For the topping, plain Greek yogurt adds protein and creaminess. If you want a dairy-free alternative, try coconut yogurt instead. It pairs well with the sweetness!
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder gives that chocolatey taste. If you want a deeper flavor, try using Dutch-processed cocoa, which is less acidic and smoother.
Red Food Coloring: The food coloring gives those classic red velvet vibes, but if you’re looking for a natural option, beet juice works just as well for that rich color!
How Do I Get the Right Consistency for My Overnight Oats?
A common concern is achieving the perfect texture for overnight oats. You want them creamy and thick but not too dry. Here’s how you can master it:
- Combine all ingredients well, ensuring the oats and chia seeds are fully coated with liquid.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight to allow them to soak. The oats absorb milk, and the chia seeds swell, thickening the mixture.
- In the morning, if they’re too thick, simply stir in a little extra milk until you reach your desired consistency.
Don’t hesitate to adjust the sweetness too—you can always add a tad more honey or maple syrup after soaking if it needs a little more flavor!
How to Make Red Velvet Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or cream cheese yogurt, for topping
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon red food coloring (or beet juice for natural coloring)
- Fresh raspberries, for garnish
- White chocolate shavings or chopped white chocolate, for garnish
- Dark chocolate shavings, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time to mix everything together and then you’ll need to let it chill in the fridge overnight (or at least 6 hours). So, it’s perfect for making the night before a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl or a jar, add the rolled oats, milk, cocoa powder, chia seeds, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and red food coloring. Stir everything together really well until all the dry ingredients are fully combined with the wet ones. You want the oats to be fully coated!
2. Refrigerating Overnight:
Cover your bowl or jar with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it sit overnight or for at least 6 hours. This will give the oats and chia seeds time to soak up the milk and get nice and thick.
3. Checking the Consistency:
The next morning, take your oats out of the fridge and give them a good stir. If they look too thick for your liking, add a splash of milk to loosen them up. You want them creamy but not runny!
4. Serving the Oats:
Now, scoop the oats into your favorite serving glasses or bowls. This recipe is not just about taste; it’s about presentation too!
5. Topping it Off:
Finish each serving with a generous dollop of Greek yogurt or cream cheese yogurt on top. This is where you really get that red velvet flavor!
6. Garnishing:
Top your oats with fresh raspberries, and sprinkle both white chocolate shavings and dark chocolate shavings on top for an extra treat!
7. Enjoy!
Serve chilled and enjoy your delicious Red Velvet Overnight Oats. They make for a tasty and festive breakfast that feels like dessert!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats, but keep in mind they may become mushy since they absorb liquid faster. If you do use them, reduce the soaking time to about 3–4 hours instead of overnight.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Overnight Oats?
Leftover overnight oats can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give them a good stir before serving, and add a splash of milk if they seem too thick after sitting.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Simply use a plant-based yogurt and milk to make it completely vegan. Options like almond, soy, or coconut milk work well, along with coconut yogurt for topping.
What Can I Use Instead of Red Food Coloring?
If you’d prefer to avoid food coloring, you can use beet juice as a natural alternative. Just use a few drops until you achieve your desired color without altering the flavor significantly!