Mornings can be hectic, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice a delicious and nutritious breakfast. Enter Nutella overnight oats – a perfect blend of convenience, indulgence, and healthiness that you can prep ahead and enjoy all week long.
This easy make-ahead breakfast combines creamy oats, rich chocolate hazelnut spread, and wholesome ingredients for a satisfying start to your day. Let’s dive into how you can treat yourself to this delightful breakfast with minimal effort.
Table of Contents
What Are Overnight Oats?
Overnight oats are a no-cook method of preparing oatmeal that has gained immense popularity in recent years. The concept is simple: combine rolled oats with liquid and other mix-ins, then let them soak in the refrigerator overnight. By morning, you’ll have a creamy, pudding-like oatmeal that’s ready to eat.
The beauty of overnight oats lies in their versatility and convenience. You can customize them with endless flavor combinations and nutritious add-ins. Plus, they’re perfect for meal prep – make a batch on Sunday, and you’ll have breakfast sorted for the entire week.
Why Nutella Overnight Oats?
While indulgent, Nutella can be a great way to start your morning with a little treat. The hazelnuts in Nutella provide a source of healthy fats, but be mindful of the sugar content. Consider pairing it with protein-rich ingredients like Greek yogurt to balance the sweetness and keep you fuller longer.
Nutella, the beloved chocolate-hazelnut spread, adds a touch of decadence to this breakfast staple. By incorporating Nutella into your overnight oats, you get to:
- Indulge in a chocolatey treat first thing in the morning
- Enjoy the rich, nutty flavor of hazelnuts
- Add some healthy fats to your breakfast
- Create a more satisfying and filling meal
The combination of creamy oats and smooth Nutella creates a breakfast that feels like dessert but still provides the nutrition you need to start your day right.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Nutella overnight oats, you’ll need:
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 2 tablespoons Nutella
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder (optional, for extra chocolatey flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
- Oats: Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture. Quick oats will become too mushy, while steel-cut oats won’t soften enough.
- Milk: Any type of milk works well. Choose your favorite – cow’s milk, almond milk, oat milk, or any other plant-based alternative.
- Greek yogurt: This adds protein and creaminess. You can substitute with regular yogurt or a dairy-free alternative if preferred.
- Chia seeds: These little powerhouses add fiber, omega-3s, and a nice texture. If you don’t have them, you can omit them or replace them with ground flaxseed.
- Cocoa powder: This is optional but enhances the chocolate flavor. Use unsweetened cocoa powder for best results.
Nutella Overnight Oats Variations:
- Vegan Option: Swap regular milk with almond or oat milk and use a vegan hazelnut spread.
- Low-Sugar Option: Use a natural, no-added-sugar hazelnut spread and add fresh berries for sweetness.
- Protein Boost: Mix in a scoop of vanilla protein powder or serve with a side of Greek yogurt.
How to Make Nutella Overnight Oats
Making Nutella overnight oats is incredibly simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Gather your ingredients: Measure out all your ingredients before you start. This makes the process smoother and ensures you don’t forget anything.
- Soften the Nutella: If your Nutella is a bit firm, microwave it for 10-15 seconds to make it easier to mix.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a jar or container, mix the oats, chia seeds, cocoa powder (if using), and salt.
- Add wet ingredients: Pour in the milk, Greek yogurt, softened Nutella, and vanilla extract.
- Mix thoroughly: Stir all ingredients together until well combined. Make sure the Nutella is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Cover and refrigerate: Seal your container and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight.
- Serve and enjoy: In the morning, give your oats a good stir. If they’re too thick, add a splash of milk. Top with your favorite garnishes and dig in!
Pro Tips for Perfect Nutella Overnight Oats
- Layer your ingredients: For a visually appealing treat, try layering your ingredients in a clear jar. Start with oats, then add Nutella, then milk and yogurt. This creates a beautiful striped effect.
- Adjust consistency: If you prefer thicker oats, use less milk. For a thinner consistency, add more liquid.
- Warm it up: While overnight oats are typically eaten cold, you can warm them up if you prefer. Just microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until they reach your desired temperature.
- Make a big batch: Double or triple the recipe to meal prep for the entire week. Store individual portions in separate containers for grab-and-go convenience.
Customizing Your Nutella Overnight Oats
One of the best things about overnight oats is how customizable they are. Here are some ideas to make your Nutella overnight oats even more exciting:
Add-Ins
- Banana slices: Add natural sweetness and creaminess
- Chopped hazelnuts: Enhance the nutty flavor and add crunch
- Chocolate chips: For extra indulgence
- Strawberries: The classic Nutella-strawberry combination
- Coconut flakes: Add tropical flavor and texture
Toppings
- Fresh berries: Raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries add freshness and antioxidants
- Sliced almonds: For a satisfying crunch
- Drizzle of honey: If you want it a bit sweeter
- Extra dollop of Nutella: Because why not?
- Whipped cream: For an extra special treat
Flavor Variations
- Nutella Banana: Add mashed banana to the base mixture
- Nutella Mocha: Mix in a teaspoon of instant coffee granules
- Nutella Peanut Butter: Swirl in a tablespoon of peanut butter
- Nutella Orange: Add a splash of orange juice and some orange zest
- Nutella Coconut: Use coconut milk and add shredded coconut
Health Benefits of Nutella Overnight Oats
While Nutella overnight oats might feel like a decadent treat, they pack quite a nutritional punch. Here’s why you can feel good about this breakfast:
- Fiber-rich: Oats are an excellent source of fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which helps lower cholesterol and promotes gut health.
- Protein-packed: Greek yogurt adds a significant amount of protein, helping you feel fuller for longer.
- Heart-healthy fats: Chia seeds and hazelnuts (from Nutella) provide omega-3 fatty acids and monounsaturated fats, which are good for heart health.
- Nutrient-dense: Oats are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, including manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, and zinc.
- Energy-boosting: The combination of complex carbohydrates from oats and natural sugars from Nutella provides sustained energy throughout the morning.
- Customizable nutrition: By adding fruits, nuts, or seeds as toppings, you can further increase the nutritional value of your breakfast.
While Nutella does contain added sugar, when used in moderation as part of a balanced breakfast, it can be part of a healthy diet. The key is portion control and balancing it with other nutritious ingredients.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
Nutella overnight oats are perfect for meal prepping. Here are some tips to make the most of your prep:
- Batch prep: Make a large batch on Sunday to last the entire week.
- Individual portions: Divide the mixture into single-serving containers for easy grab-and-go breakfasts.
- Store properly: Keep your overnight oats in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
- Shelf life: Properly stored, Nutella overnight oats will last 3-5 days in the refrigerator.
- Freeze for later: You can freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before eating.
- Add toppings later: If using fresh fruit or crunchy toppings, add these just before eating to maintain their texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make these vegan? A: Absolutely! Use plant-based milk, dairy-free yogurt, and a vegan chocolate hazelnut spread.
Q: Are overnight oats healthy? A: Yes, overnight oats can be very nutritious. They’re high in fiber, can be a good source of protein, and are easily customizable with healthy add-ins.
Q: Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats? A: While you can use quick oats, the texture will be much softer and potentially mushy. Rolled oats are recommended for the best texture.
Q: Do I have to eat them cold? A: Not at all! While many people enjoy overnight oats cold, you can certainly warm them up in the microwave if you prefer.
Q: Can I make these without chia seeds? A: Yes, you can omit the chia seeds if you don’t have them or don’t like them. The oats will still soak up the liquid and be delicious.
Conclusion
Nutella overnight oats offer a delightful way to start your day with a breakfast that feels indulgent but is quite nutritious. With minimal prep time and endless customization options, this make-ahead meal is perfect for busy mornings or when you just want to treat yourself to something special.
By combining the wholesome goodness of oats with the irresistible flavor of Nutella, you create a breakfast that’s not only delicious but also satisfying and energizing. Whether you’re a long-time overnight oats fan or new to the concept, this Nutella version is sure to become a favorite in your breakfast rotation.
Looking for more indulgent, easy-to-prepare breakfasts? Try my Almond Butter Overnight Oats, If you love Nutella, you might also enjoy Banana Blueberry Breakfast Ideas for a fruity twist.
So why not give it a try? Prep a jar tonight, and wake up to a little morning treat tomorrow. Your future self will thank you for the delicious and effortless breakfast waiting in the fridge. Enjoy your Nutella overnight oats, and start your day sweetly!
What’s your favorite way to make overnight oats? Share your tips in the comments below!