German Chocolate Overnight Oatmeal: A Delicious & Healthy Breakfast Recipe

German Chocolate Overnight Oatmeal: Imagine waking up to the decadent flavors of German chocolate cake without any of the guilt! This isn’t just breakfast; it’s a delightful indulgence that sets the perfect tone for your day. Forget the fuss of baking; this recipe brings together the rich chocolate, sweet coconut, and crunchy pecans you crave, all in a convenient, make-ahead format.

While German chocolate cake might seem inherently German, its origins are surprisingly American! It was named after Sam German, an American baker who developed a type of dark baking chocolate for the Baker’s Chocolate Company in 1852. The cake itself, however, didn’t become popular until 1957, thanks to a recipe published in a Dallas newspaper. Now, we’re taking those beloved flavors and transforming them into a healthy and satisfying breakfast option.

People adore German chocolate cake for its moist texture, the harmonious blend of chocolate and coconut, and the satisfying crunch of pecans. This German Chocolate Overnight Oatmeal captures all of those elements, offering a creamy, comforting, and incredibly flavorful start to your morning. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and nutty, and the overnight preparation means you can simply grab and go. Plus, it’s packed with fiber and nutrients, making it a guilt-free way to enjoy a classic dessert flavor. Get ready to experience the magic of German Chocolate Overnight Oatmeal!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats (not instant)
• 2 cups unsweetened almond milk (or milk of your choice)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey, agave, or other sweetener to taste)
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut, unsweetened
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• For the Coconut Pecan Topping:
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut, sweetened or unsweetened (toasted)
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans, toasted
• 2 tablespoons butter (or coconut oil), melted
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey)
• Pinch of sea salt

Preparing the Oatmeal Base:

Okay, let’s get started! This German Chocolate Overnight Oatmeal is seriously the best way to wake up. It’s like having dessert for breakfast, but it’s actually good for you! First, we’re going to create the base for our overnight oats. This is where all the magic happens, and the flavors start to meld together.

1. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl or a container with a lid (I prefer a container with a lid for easy storage), add the rolled oats, cocoa powder, shredded coconut, chia seeds, and sea salt. Make sure to use rolled oats and not instant oats. Instant oats will get too mushy overnight. Give everything a good stir to combine all the dry ingredients evenly. This ensures that the cocoa powder is distributed throughout the oats, preventing any clumps.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients: Pour in the almond milk (or your milk of choice), maple syrup (or your preferred sweetener), and vanilla extract. I love using almond milk because it adds a subtle nutty flavor, but any milk will work just fine. The maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness, but you can adjust the amount to your liking. The vanilla extract enhances all the other flavors and adds a warm, comforting touch.
3. Mix Thoroughly: Now, it’s time to mix everything together really well. Use a spoon or a whisk to ensure that all the ingredients are fully incorporated. Make sure there are no dry clumps of cocoa powder at the bottom of the bowl. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and Adjust: This is a crucial step! Give the mixture a taste and adjust the sweetness to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter oatmeal, add a little more maple syrup or honey. If you want a richer chocolate flavor, add a bit more cocoa powder. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
5. Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the bowl or container with a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the oats to absorb the liquid and soften, creating a creamy and delicious oatmeal. The chia seeds will also expand, adding a pudding-like texture.

Preparing the Coconut Pecan Topping:

While the oatmeal is chilling in the fridge, let’s prepare the star of the show: the coconut pecan topping! This topping is what truly makes this oatmeal taste like German Chocolate Cake. The toasted coconut and pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, while the melted butter and maple syrup create a sweet and decadent glaze.

1. Toast the Coconut and Pecans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the shredded coconut and chopped pecans on a baking sheet in a single layer. Toast them in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the coconut is lightly golden brown and the pecans are fragrant. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn easily. Alternatively, you can toast the coconut and pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, until they are lightly toasted.
2. Melt the Butter (or Coconut Oil): In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter (or coconut oil). If using a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it is completely melted. If using a microwave, heat the butter in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it is melted.
3. Combine the Topping Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the toasted coconut, toasted pecans, melted butter (or coconut oil), maple syrup (or honey), and a pinch of sea salt. Stir everything together until the coconut and pecans are evenly coated with the butter and syrup mixture.

Assembling and Serving:

The moment we’ve all been waiting for! It’s time to assemble our German Chocolate Overnight Oatmeal and enjoy the deliciousness. This is where you can get creative and customize your oatmeal to your liking. Add extra toppings, such as chocolate chips, whipped cream, or fresh fruit, to make it even more decadent.

1. Portion the Oatmeal: Remove the oatmeal from the refrigerator and give it a good stir. The oatmeal should be thick and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out. Divide the oatmeal into individual serving bowls or jars.
2. Top with Coconut Pecan Mixture: Spoon the coconut pecan topping generously over each serving of oatmeal. Don’t be shy! The more topping, the better.
3. Optional Toppings: If desired, add any additional toppings you like. Some of my favorites include chocolate chips, whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate syrup, or fresh berries.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the German Chocolate Overnight Oatmeal immediately and enjoy! This oatmeal is best served cold, but you can also warm it up in the microwave if you prefer.

Tips and Variations:

• Make it Vegan: To make this recipe vegan, use almond milk or another plant-based milk, maple syrup or agave nectar, and coconut oil instead of butter.
• Add Protein: For an extra boost of protein, add a scoop of protein powder to the oatmeal base.
• Use Different Nuts: Feel free to substitute the pecans with other nuts, such as walnuts, almonds, or cashews.
• Add Chocolate Chips: For an even more decadent treat, add chocolate chips to the oatmeal base or sprinkle them on top.
• Make it Ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare the oatmeal base and coconut pecan topping ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Adjust Sweetness: Adjust the amount of maple syrup or honey to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet oatmeal, reduce the amount of sweetener.
• Add Spices: For a warm and cozy flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the oatmeal base.

Storage Instructions:

Store leftover German Chocolate Overnight Oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The coconut pecan topping can also be stored separately in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 400-500 per serving
• Protein: Approximately 10-15 grams per serving
• Fat: Approximately 20-25 grams per serving
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-50 grams per serving
• Fiber: Approximately 10-15 grams per serving

Conclusion:

This German Chocolate Overnight Oatmeal isn’t just breakfast; it’s a decadent treat disguised as a healthy start to your day! The rich chocolate flavor, the subtle sweetness of the coconut, and the satisfying crunch of the pecans all combine to create a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you feeling energized and completely satisfied. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be wondering where it’s been all your life. It’s the perfect solution for busy mornings when you crave something indulgent but don’t want to sacrifice your well-being.

I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves German chocolate cake or simply enjoys a delicious and convenient breakfast. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring only a few minutes of prep time the night before, and the results are simply divine. Plus, it’s packed with fiber and nutrients, making it a guilt-free pleasure you can enjoy every day.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different variations to suit your own preferences. For a richer, more intense chocolate flavor, try adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder or a few dark chocolate chips. If you’re not a fan of pecans, walnuts or almonds would be equally delicious. You could even add a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of shredded coconut on top for an extra touch of indulgence.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Enjoy it straight from the fridge for a cool and refreshing breakfast.
* Warm it up slightly in the microwave for a cozy and comforting treat.
* Top it with fresh berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, for a burst of fruity flavor.
* Add a scoop of protein powder for an extra boost of protein.
* For a vegan version, use plant-based milk and vegan chocolate chips.
* If you like it sweeter, add a drizzle of maple syrup or agave nectar.
* Consider adding a pinch of sea salt to enhance the chocolate flavor.

I’ve personally made this German Chocolate Overnight Oatmeal countless times, and it’s always a hit. It’s become a staple in my breakfast routine, and I know it will become one in yours too. It’s the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth without derailing your healthy eating habits.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, mix everything together, and let the magic happen overnight. I’m confident that you’ll absolutely love this recipe. It’s a game-changer for busy mornings and a delightful way to treat yourself to something special.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the deliciousness for yourself! Once you’ve made it, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear what you think and any variations you’ve tried. Did you add any special toppings? Did you make any substitutions? Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create recipes that you’ll love. Don’t be shy – let me know what you think! Happy cooking (or rather, happy overnight oats-ing!). I can’t wait to hear all about your German Chocolate Overnight Oatmeal adventures!