Ingredients
Overnight Oats Base
- 2⅓ cups old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1⅔ cups reduced-fat chocolate milk
- 2 (5.3-ounce) containers nonfat black cherry strained (Greek-style) yogurt
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
Toppings & Garnish
- 1 cup stemmed fresh dark sweet cherries, pitted and coarsely chopped, or thawed frozen pitted cherries, coarsely chopped
- 2 tablespoons bittersweet chocolate chips (60% cacao)
- 1½ teaspoons unrefined coconut oil
- Flaky sea salt for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Mix the oat base: In a medium bowl, stir together the rolled oats, reduced-fat chocolate milk, black cherry yogurt, chia seeds, cocoa powder, almond extract, and salt until well combined. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or up to 4 days to allow the oats and chia seeds to absorb the liquid and flavors.
- Assemble the jars: Divide half of the chilled oat mixture evenly among four 10-ounce tall, narrow jars, smoothing it into an even layer (about a scant ½ cup per jar). Add a layer of chopped dark sweet cherries over the oats, approximately 3 tablespoons per jar. Top each jar with the remaining oat mixture, smoothing into an even top layer.
- Melt the chocolate topping: In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine the bittersweet chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave on High for about 1 minute, stirring after 30 seconds, until the chocolate and oil are fully melted and smooth.
- Finish with chocolate drizzle and chill: Spoon the melted chocolate mixture evenly over the tops of the oats in the jars (about 1½ teaspoons each). Refrigerate the jars uncovered for 5 to 10 minutes until the chocolate is nearly set. Optionally, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for an extra flavor contrast before serving.
Notes
- Use 10-ounce Mason jars or similar containers for easy layering and serving.
- Overnight oats can be stored in the refrigerator covered for up to 4 days.
- Fresh or frozen dark sweet cherries can be used interchangeably; thaw frozen cherries before using.
- To vary flavors, substitute the black cherry yogurt and cherries with other fruit options, though dark sweet cherries maintain the classic Black Forest taste.
- The chocolate topping sets quickly; watch closely to avoid hardening before serving.
- Prep Time: 35 mins
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian