Chocolate Overnight Oats That Taste Like Pudding

Ingredients

• 2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats (180 g)
• 2 cups whole milk (480 g)
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (245 g)
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (28 g)
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup (60 g)
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds (24 g)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (10 g)
• 1/4 teaspoon fine salt (1 g)
• 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips (60 g)
• 1 cup strawberries, sliced (150 g)

Instructions

1. Prepare. Whisk cocoa powder with maple syrup and 1/2 cup of the milk until a smooth dark paste forms. This small start prevents dry cocoa pockets. Whisk in the remaining milk, yogurt, vanilla and salt until glossy. Fold in the rolled oats and chia seeds, scraping the bottom and sides until the mixture has one even chocolate color.
2. Assemble. Divide the mixture among four 12-ounce jars and leave room to stir. Tap each jar gently on a folded towel to settle the oats, wipe the rims and cover. Refrigerate for 8 hours. Keep the chocolate chips separate during chilling so the base hydrates evenly and the small pieces retain their bite.
3. Cook or chill. Stir one jar firmly from the bottom. Properly hydrated chocolate oats hold a defined spoon trench for a moment and show no watery ring around the glass. If they are too thick, fold in 1 tablespoon milk. If they are loose, wait another 30 minutes before adjusting because the chia continues to absorb liquid after stirring.
4. Finish. Scatter chocolate chips and sliced strawberries over each jar just before serving. A restrained topping keeps the cocoa base central and makes the jar easier to close. On a Tuesday, the oats travel best with the toppings in a separate cup; stir them in after the jar leaves the refrigerator, and eat the breakfast cold or gently warmed.

Notes

• Use the clear lidded breakfast jar and preserve the weights. Center cue: the oats after eight hours, holding a defined spoon trench without a watery ring.
• Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat one portion for 45 seconds, check the center and add brief bursts if needed.

Nutrition Facts