Banana Cocoa Crunch Overnight Oats

why make this recipe

Banana Cocoa Crunch Overnight Oats are a delightful breakfast option that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the natural sweetness of bananas. This recipe is simple, quick, and requires no cooking, making it perfect for busy mornings. You can prepare it the night before, allowing the oats to soak up the milk and flavors while you sleep. Plus, it’s packed with nutrition, providing you with energy to start your day right.

how to make Banana Cocoa Crunch Overnight Oats

Ingredients:

• 40g/1½oz rolled oats (use gluten-free oats if required)
• Small handful hazelnuts
• 150ml/5fl oz milk or soya milk
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• ½ banana, chopped
• 1 tsp cocoa nibs

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 200C/180C Fan/Gas 6. Put the oats and hazelnuts on a baking tray and toast for 7 minutes, until they smell fragrant. Alternatively, you can toast them in a frying pan. Set aside to cool.
2. Roughly chop the hazelnuts and put them in a lidded jar. Add the oats.
3. Pour over the milk and maple syrup, and top with the chopped banana and cocoa nibs.
4. Leave the jar overnight in the fridge.
5. To serve, top with more banana and cocoa nibs if you like.

how to serve Banana Cocoa Crunch Overnight Oats

You can enjoy Banana Cocoa Crunch Overnight Oats straight from the jar for an easy breakfast. For an added treat, top it with extra slices of banana and a sprinkle of cocoa nibs. This gives you a nice crunch and boosts the chocolate flavor. It also makes for a pretty presentation!

how to store Banana Cocoa Crunch Overnight Oats

These overnight oats can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’ve made multiple servings, just keep them in sealed jars or containers. Give them a good stir before eating, and add fresh toppings if desired.

tips to make Banana Cocoa Crunch Overnight Oats

• Toast the hazelnuts for extra flavor and crunch.
• If you don’t have cocoa nibs, you can use chocolate chips or omit them altogether.
• For a creamier texture, you can blend the bananas into the milk before adding it to the oats.
• Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup based on your taste.

variation

You can customize this recipe in several ways. Try adding chia seeds for extra fiber or swap out the banana for other fruits like strawberries or blueberries. You could also use almond milk or coconut milk for different flavors and dairy-free options.

FAQs

Can I make this with instant oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats, but they may become softer than traditional rolled oats. Adjust the soaking time if needed.

Can I use other types of nuts?
Absolutely! You can use almonds, walnuts, or any nuts you prefer.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
To ensure it is gluten-free, use certified gluten-free rolled oats. The other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.