Save It My mornings used to be a scramble until I started keeping jars of these in the fridge. One Sunday evening, I was craving something sweet but needed real fuel for early gym sessions, and I remembered those peanut butter cups I'd sneak as a kid. I thought, why not turn that into breakfast? The first bite the next morning tasted like dessert, but I actually felt full until lunch. Now I make two jars every week and never look back.
I brought a jar to work once and my coworker thought I was eating chocolate pudding at my desk. When I told her it was oats, yogurt, and peanut butter, she didn't believe me until she tasted it. She started making her own that weekend. There's something about layering the ganache that makes it feel special, even though it only takes ten minutes to throw together.
Ingredients
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: The base that soaks up all the creamy goodness overnight, turning soft but still holding a little chew, avoid instant oats or it'll get mushy.
- Unsweetened almond milk: Keeps it light and dairy-free friendly, but any milk works, I've used oat milk and it made it even creamier.
- Plain Greek yogurt: This is what makes it thick and adds serious protein, go for 2% if you want it rich or 0% to keep it lighter.
- Natural peanut butter: The star flavor, use the kind that's just peanuts and salt so it doesn't get too sweet or oily.
- Honey or maple syrup: Just enough sweetness to balance the cocoa without turning it into dessert, I usually go maple for deeper flavor.
- Vanilla extract: A small splash that ties everything together and makes the whole jar smell amazing when you open it.
- Chia seeds: Optional but they thicken it up and add a little crunch, plus extra fiber never hurts.
- Protein powder: I add vanilla protein when I want it extra filling, chocolate works too if you want double chocolate vibes.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: The backbone of the ganache, make sure it's unsweetened or it'll throw off the balance.
- Mini chocolate chips: The final touch that makes you feel like you're eating something you shouldn't be allowed to have for breakfast.
- Chopped roasted peanuts: Optional but they add crunch and make it taste even more like the real candy.
Instructions
- Mix the oat base:
- Grab a medium bowl and stir together the oats, almond milk, yogurt, peanut butter, honey, vanilla, salt, chia seeds, and protein powder if you're using it. Keep stirring until it's smooth and creamy, no lumps of peanut butter hiding at the bottom.
- Make the cocoa ganache:
- In a small bowl, whisk the cocoa powder, maple syrup, and milk together until it's glossy and pourable. It should look like a silky chocolate sauce, if it's too thick, add a splash more milk.
- Layer the jars:
- Divide half the oat mixture between two jars, then spoon half the ganache over each layer. Add the rest of the oats on top, then finish with the remaining ganache, don't worry about making it perfect, the swirls look beautiful no matter what.
- Add toppings:
- Sprinkle the mini chocolate chips and chopped peanuts over the top of each jar. Press them in gently so they stick a little.
- Chill overnight:
- Pop the lids on and slide them into the fridge for at least four hours, or overnight. The oats will soak up all the liquid and turn thick and spoonable, ready when you are.
- Serve:
- Pull a jar out in the morning and eat it cold, straight from the fridge. Stir it up if you want the ganache mixed in, or eat it in layers for that peanut butter cup experience.
Save It The first time I made these for my sister, she ate both jars before I even got one. She said it reminded her of sneaking candy before dinner, except this time she didn't feel guilty. Now she texts me every few weeks asking if I've made them again. It's become our little tradition, swapping jars and toppings ideas like we're running a secret breakfast club.
Making It Your Own
You can swap the peanut butter for almond or cashew butter if you want a different flavor, or go full Nutella mode and skip the cocoa ganache for a chocolate hazelnut spread layer instead. I've tried adding a mashed banana to the oat base, and it made it sweeter and creamier, almost like banana bread. If you're not into chocolate, try cinnamon and diced apples with a drizzle of caramel on top. The base recipe is forgiving, so play around and see what sticks.
Storing and Meal Prep
These last up to three days in the fridge, which makes them perfect for Sunday prep. I usually make four jars at once, two for me and two for my partner, and we're set for half the week. Make sure the lids are tight so they don't pick up any weird fridge smells. If you want to freeze them, skip the toppings and add those fresh after thawing, the oats hold up fine but the chocolate chips can get a little weird.
Serving Suggestions
I love eating these straight from the jar with a spoon, but you can also pour them into a bowl and top with fresh berries or banana slices for a little brightness. If you want extra crunch, throw on some granola or cacao nibs right before eating. Sometimes I drizzle a little extra peanut butter on top because, honestly, there's no such thing as too much. They're filling enough to eat alone, but they also pair really well with a hot coffee or a green smoothie on the side.
- Top with sliced strawberries and a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for a fancy touch.
- Add a spoonful of coconut flakes for tropical vibes.
- Stir in a handful of fresh blueberries right before serving for a pop of color and tartness.
Save It This recipe turned my mornings from chaotic to calm, and I hope it does the same for you. Make a batch tonight and thank yourself tomorrow.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → Can I make these oats in advance?
Yes, these overnight oats can be prepared up to 3 days in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator and they'll stay fresh and delicious.
- → How can I make this vegan?
Use plant-based yogurt instead of Greek yogurt and ensure your chocolate chips and protein powder are vegan. All other ingredients are naturally plant-based.
- → What type of peanut butter works best?
Natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils provides the best flavor and nutrition. Creamy varieties blend more smoothly into the oat mixture.
- → Can I skip the protein powder?
Absolutely. The Greek yogurt and peanut butter already provide substantial protein. The powder is optional for those seeking extra protein content.
- → How thick should the consistency be?
After chilling, the oats should be thick and creamy, similar to pudding. Adding chia seeds helps achieve extra thickness and adds fiber.
- → What milk alternatives can I use?
Any milk works well including oat milk, soy milk, coconut milk, or regular dairy milk. Choose based on your dietary preferences and desired flavor.