This Nutella overnight oats recipe blends old-fashioned rolled oats with hazelnut spread, cocoa powder, chia seeds, milk, yogurt, and vanilla to create a simple, no-cook breakfast you can prepare in minutes. It’s a chocolatey, spoonable treat that stores well in jars for busy mornings.
If you enjoy easy make-ahead breakfasts, this recipe is ideal. Make several jars on a weekend night and enjoy a grab-and-go breakfast throughout the week. The combination of oats and chia seeds gives a satisfying texture while providing fiber and staying filling until lunchtime.
This version uses Nutella for a rich chocolate-hazelnut flavor, balanced by unsweetened cocoa powder and a touch of maple syrup. Old-fashioned rolled oats are whole-grain and a good source of fiber; chia seeds add extra fiber and omega-3s while helping the oats thicken overnight. Use gluten-free labeled oats only if you have celiac disease or require a certified gluten-free product.
Recipe highlights
- Make-ahead friendly: Prepares well in jars for the week.
- High in fiber: Rolled oats and chia seeds contribute fiber to help you feel full.
- Chocolate-hazelnut flavor: Nutella and cocoa powder combine for a rich, dessert-like breakfast.
Ingredients
The ingredient list is straightforward and flexible. See the notes below for substitutions.
- ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- ½ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- ¼ cup plain whole-milk yogurt (or Greek / dairy-free alternative)
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 1 tablespoon Nutella (chocolate hazelnut spread)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons chia seeds
- ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1 tablespoon toasted hazelnuts, chopped (for topping)
Instructions
These oats require no cooking—just mix, chill, and enjoy.
- In a jar or bowl, combine the oats, milk, yogurt, cocoa powder, Nutella, maple syrup, chia seeds, vanilla, and salt. Stir well until the Nutella and cocoa are fully incorporated and the mixture looks smooth and milky.
- Cover the jar and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. The oats and chia seeds will absorb liquid and thicken into a creamy texture.
- The next morning, remove from the fridge and stir. Serve cold or warm. To heat, microwave briefly in 30-second intervals until desired temperature is reached.
- Top with toasted hazelnuts, extra Nutella, fresh fruit, coconut flakes, or granola if desired.
I like to finish mine with a dollop of Nutella, diced strawberries, and crunchy hazelnuts for texture contrast and freshness.
Topping ideas
- Fresh strawberries or sliced bananas
- Chopped toasted hazelnuts or other nuts
- A spoonful of extra Nutella
- Coconut flakes or shredded toasted coconut
- Granola for extra crunch
Substitutions and variations
Customize the recipe to fit your taste or dietary needs.
- Milk: Use any milk you prefer—cow’s milk, almond, oat, soy, or coconut will all work. Nutrition and texture will vary slightly by choice.
- Yogurt: Plain whole-milk yogurt gives creaminess, but Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurts are excellent alternatives.
- Chia seeds: They thicken the oats and add nutrients; you can omit them for a thinner texture or reduce the milk to compensate.
- Hazelnut spread: Nutella provides a characteristic flavor. You can use any chocolate-hazelnut spread or a homemade version if desired.
Equipment
Minimal equipment is required: an airtight jar or container and a spoon. A 16 oz wide-mouth mason jar gives more room for stirring, but a 12 oz jar works fine for single servings.
Storage
Store prepared overnight oats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Texture will soften the longer they sit; stir before serving and add any fresh toppings just before eating.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Old-fashioned oats are the same as rolled oats; they are simply oats that have been steamed and rolled flat.
What milk is best for overnight oats?
Any milk works. Choose based on flavor and dietary needs—cow’s milk adds protein, oat milk lends creaminess, and almond milk is lower in calories.
What does Nutella taste like?
Nutella is a creamy chocolate-hazelnut spread with a sweet, nutty flavor that pairs well with oats and fruit.
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 473 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 68 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Fat: 17 g
- Fiber: 10 g
- Sugar: 32 g
Recipe at a glance
- Yield: 1 serving
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Chill time: 4 hours (or overnight)
- Total time: about 4 hours 5 minutes
- Course: Breakfast
Make this Nutella overnight oats recipe as written or adapt it to your pantry. It’s an easy, delicious way to enjoy a chocolatey breakfast that reheats well or is perfectly satisfying cold straight from the fridge.