Winter mornings can be a little dramatic — the kind where you open the curtains and immediately consider retreating back under a blanket with a ceremonial sigh. That’s exactly why Black Forest Overnight Oats exist. They taste like dessert, behave like meal prep, and let you start the day with the quiet confidence of someone who absolutely planned ahead.
There’s something smugly satisfying about scooping into chocolatey oats studded with cherries before you’ve even had coffee. It’s indulgent in a low-effort way, a tiny act of rebellion against the cold. Breakfast that feels like cake but takes ten minutes? That’s the kind of math winter deserves.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Chocolate and cherries team up for full dessert-for-breakfast energy.
- Uses frozen cherries — aka peak flavor without pitting or planning.
- Meal-prep friendly, fridge-stable, and toddler-customizable.
- Balances protein, fiber, and indulgence so you feel nourished, not weighed down.
- Perfect for winter breakfasts, make-ahead mornings, and anyone craving a healthy-ish treat.
Tips, Tricks & Variations
Chocolate can run a little bitter in overnight oats, so taste the mix before it goes into the fridge — a drizzle of maple syrup can pull everything together. Frozen cherries melt into the oats overnight, turning the mixture velvety and sweet without extra effort.
Make it dairy-free by swapping coconut yogurt and oat milk. Add chia seeds for thickness or granola for texture. And if you’re feeding a toddler, reduce the cocoa and lean into cherries; mini chocolate chips melt less and stick to tiny spoons better.
This keeps 3-4 days in the fridge, making it a quiet gift to your future self.
Serving & Pairings
Top with whipped cream and shaved chocolate if you want the full Black Forest fantasy, or keep it simple for weekday mornings. Pairs beautifully with a cappuccino or a hot black tea — both add to the “I did something good for myself” feeling.
FAQ
Can I make Black Forest Overnight Oats without yogurt?
Yes. Replace the yogurt with extra milk or a splash of cream. The oats will be looser but still satisfyingly creamy.
Are frozen cherries okay for overnight oats?
They’re ideal. Frozen cherries thaw into the oats, releasing juice and flavor without the hassle of pitting fresh fruit.
Can I warm these up in the morning?
Absolutely. Heat gently in the microwave with a splash of milk for a cozier, winter-ready version.
Black Forest Overnight Oats
Ingredients
Base
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup milk of choice dairy or non-dairy
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Cherries & Chocolate
- 1 cup frozen or fresh pitted cherries halved
- 2 tablespoons dark chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
Optional Toppings
- Extra cherries
- Shaved chocolate
- Whipped cream or coconut whip
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, milk, yogurt, cocoa powder, honey, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
- Fold in the cherries and chocolate chips.
- Divide mixture into two jars or containers, cover, and refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours).
- In the morning, stir, adjust sweetness if needed, and top with extra cherries, chocolate, or whipped cream if you’re leaning into full dessert-for-breakfast energy.