Description
This Layered Black Forest Overnight Oats recipe is a quick, nutritious, and delicious breakfast option that combines creamy Greek yogurt, cocoa-flavored oats, and fresh cherries. Prepared the night before, it offers a rich chocolate-cherry flavor reminiscent of the classic Black Forest dessert in a wholesome, convenient way.
Ingredients
Scale
Oat Mixture
- 1 cup rolled oats (divided into 1/2 cup portions)
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy, divided into 1/2 cup portions)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (divided into two 1/4 cup portions)
- 4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (divided into 2 tablespoons portions)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (divided into 1 tablespoon portions)
Fruit Layer
- 1/4 cup cherries, chopped (fresh or thawed frozen, plus extra for topping if desired)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oat Mixture: In a jar or bowl, combine rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, unsweetened cocoa powder, and honey. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are smooth and well incorporated.
- Layer First Oat Mixture: Spoon half of the prepared oat mixture into the bottom of a clean jar or container, evenly spreading it.
- Add Cherry Layer: Place a layer of chopped cherries on top of the first oat layer, distributing the fruit evenly.
- Layer Remaining Oat Mixture: Add the remaining oat mixture gently over the cherry layer to create the top layer.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the jar or container with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to allow oats to soften and flavors to meld.
- Serve: In the morning, stir the oats gently before eating or enjoy as is. Optionally, top with extra cherries or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use milk of choice: dairy or any plant-based milk such as almond, oat, or soy.
- For a vegan version, substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Use fresh or frozen cherries; if using frozen, thaw them before layering.
- Can be prepared up to 2 days in advance for convenience.
- Add nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition if desired.
- Adjust sweetness according to taste by varying honey or maple syrup.
- Can be enjoyed cold or warmed slightly before eating.
