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Black Forest Cake-Inspired Overnight Oats Recipe

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4.3 from 57 reviews

Experience the indulgent flavors of a Black Forest cake in a healthy, convenient breakfast with these Black Forest Cake–Inspired Overnight Oats. Rich chocolate oats layered with tart dark sweet cherries and creamy black cherry yogurt create a dessert-like treat that’s perfect for mornings. Made with wholesome ingredients and easy to prepare ahead, these oats deliver on taste and nutrition for a satisfying start to your day.

  • Total Time: 8 hrs 40 mins
  • Yield: 4 servings

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 35 mins
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian