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Chocolate Orange Protein Overnight Oats - A Bright, Chocolatey Make-Ahead Breakfast

Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 2 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Rolled oats (old-fashioned)
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder
  • Chocolate or vanilla protein powder (whey or plant-based)
  • Milk of choice (dairy, almond, oat, soy, etc.)
  • Plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt)
  • Orange zest (from 1 orange)
  • Fresh orange juice (about 2–3 tablespoons)
  • Maple syrup or honey (to taste)
  • Vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional mix-ins: chia seeds or ground flaxseed
  • Optional toppings: dark chocolate shavings, cacao nibs, toasted nuts, orange segments, coconut, or a dollop of yogurt

Instructions
 

  • In a medium bowl or jar, add 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1 tablespoon cocoa powder, and 1 scoop protein powder. Stir to combine so there are no cocoa clumps.
  • Add 2/3 cup milk, 1/4 cup Greek yogurt, 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup, 1 teaspoon vanilla, a pinch of salt, 1–2 teaspoons orange zest, and 2–3 tablespoons fresh orange juice.
  • If using, stir in 1 tablespoon chia seeds or 2 teaspoons ground flaxseed for extra thickness and fiber.
  • Whisk or stir until smooth. The mixture should look slightly loose; the oats and seeds will thicken it overnight.
  • Cover and chill for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.
  • In the morning, stir well. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen. Taste and adjust sweetness or zest.
  • Top with orange segments, dark chocolate shavings, cacao nibs, or toasted nuts. Enjoy cold.