Cookie Dough Overnight Oats are like a little breakfast treat that feels like a dessert! They’re creamy, a bit sweet, and packed with oats, yogurt, and that irresistible cookie dough flavor—without the raw eggs, of course. The oats soak up all the goodness overnight, making them soft and ready to eat by morning.
I love making these when I want something quick but a little special to start my day. Sometimes, I add a handful of chocolate chips or a sprinkle of cinnamon to give it that extra cozy feeling. What’s great is that you can prep it the night before and grab it straight from the fridge, perfect for busy mornings or lazy weekends.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy these is with fresh fruit on top, like sliced bananas or strawberries. It adds a fresh pop that balances the creamy, cookie dough flavor so well. I think this makes breakfast feel fun and a little bit like a treat, which always makes me look forward to morning.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These give the dish its hearty texture. Old-fashioned rolled oats work best because they soften overnight but still keep a little chew. If you only have quick oats, you can use them, but the texture will be softer.
Greek Yogurt: Adds creaminess and protein. I like vanilla yogurt for extra flavor, but plain works too. For a dairy-free version, try coconut yogurt.
Peanut Butter: This brings the classic cookie dough richness. You can swap almond or cashew butter if you prefer a milder taste or have allergies. Just pick a smooth one for easy mixing.
Mini Chocolate Chips: These small bites are key for little chocolate bursts. If you don’t have mini ones, chop up regular chips or use dairy-free or sugar-free chips to suit your diet.
How Do I Make Overnight Oats Creamy and Not Too Runny?
Getting the right texture can take a little practice. Here are my tips:
- Use rolled oats, not instant, for a chewy texture.
- Balance your liquid: start with equal parts oats and milk. You can add more milk in the morning if needed.
- Greek yogurt helps thicken and add creaminess—don’t skip it.
- Stir your oats well before refrigerating to evenly mix the peanut butter and flavors.
- Let it sit at least 4 hours, but overnight is best to let oats absorb all the moisture.
In the morning, if your oats feel too thick, just stir in a splash of milk until you reach a creamier texture you like.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Glass jar or airtight container – perfect for mixing and storing your oats overnight without spills.
- Measuring cups – helps you get the oat-to-liquid ratio just right for creamy oats.
- Spoon or spatula – easy for stirring in peanut butter and mixing all ingredients smoothly.
- Refrigerator – essential for letting your oats soak and soften properly overnight.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap peanut butter for almond or cashew butter – these nuts give a milder, nutty flavor that pairs well with chocolate.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin spice – perfect for cozy mornings and adds warmth to the oats.
- Top with fresh berries or banana slices – add natural sweetness and a fresh twist to the creamy oats.
- Mix in chia seeds or flaxseeds – boosts fiber and adds a slightly nutty crunch.
Cookie Dough Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup milk (any kind: dairy or plant-based)
- ¼ cup plain or vanilla Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter (or almond butter)
- 1 to 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep. Then, you’ll let the oats soak and rest in the fridge overnight (or for at least 4 hours) so they become soft and creamy. It’s mostly hands-off time, perfect for making the night before a busy morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix Your Ingredients:
Start by adding rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, peanut butter, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt into a medium jar or bowl. Stir everything together well until the peanut butter is fully mixed in and the ingredients are combined.
2. Add Chocolate Chips:
Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, saving a few for topping later. This keeps the chocolate evenly distributed, giving you little tasty bursts in every bite.
3. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover your jar or bowl with a lid or some plastic wrap, then place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best. This soaking time helps the oats absorb the liquids, making them soft and creamy.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
In the morning, give the oats a good stir. If it feels too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up. Top with an extra drizzle of peanut butter and sprinkle the remaining mini chocolate chips on top. Enjoy your delicious, cookie dough-inspired overnight oats straight from the jar or bowl!
Can I Use Frozen Fruit in My Cookie Dough Overnight Oats?
Yes! Just add frozen fruit directly to the oats before refrigerating. The fruit will thaw overnight and add natural sweetness and texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and swap the Greek yogurt for a dairy-free yogurt alternative. Also, choose dairy-free chocolate chips to keep it fully vegan.
How Long Do Overnight Oats Keep in the Fridge?
They stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. Just give it a quick stir and add a bit of milk if it thickens too much before eating.
Can I Add Other Mix-Ins to Customize?
Definitely! Try adding chia seeds, flaxseed, cinnamon, or a handful of nuts for extra nutrition and flavor variations. Just mix them in before refrigerating overnight.
