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Black Forest Cake-Inspired Overnight Oats Recipe

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3.9 from 7 reviews

This Black Forest Cake-Inspired Overnight Oats recipe is a delicious and healthy breakfast option that captures the classic flavors of chocolate and cherries. Creamy, chocolatey, and slightly tart, it combines rolled oats, chia seeds, cocoa, sweet maple syrup, milk, Greek yogurt, and a homemade cherry compote, all layered in a jar and chilled overnight for a convenient, no-cook breakfast treat.

  • Total Time: 6 hours 17 minutes
  • Yield: 1 serving

Ingredients

Oats Base

  • 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1 tbsp chia seeds
  • 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1/2 cup milk (any kind)
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

Cherry Compote

  • 1/2 cup frozen dark sweet cherries
  • 1 tbsp water

Toppings

  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp dark chocolate chips or shavings
  • Optional: extra Greek yogurt and cherries for topping

Instructions

  1. Make the Cherry Compote: Add the frozen dark sweet cherries and water to a small saucepan and cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cherries become soft and syrupy. Lightly mash a few cherries with the back of a spoon to release juices and create a compote texture.
  2. Mix the Oats Base: In a medium bowl, combine rolled oats, chia seeds, cocoa powder, maple syrup, milk, and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and cocoa powder is fully incorporated without lumps.
  3. Layer the Oats and Cherries: Spoon half of the oat mixture into a jar, then add a layer of cherry compote. Follow with the remaining oats mixture on top, and optionally add a small spoonful more of cherry compote for extra flavor.
  4. Add Yogurt and Chocolate: Top the jar with plain Greek yogurt, then sprinkle with dark chocolate chips or shaved chocolate. Add a cherry or two for garnish if desired.
  5. Chill Overnight: Seal the container with a lid and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow the oats to soften and flavors to meld. Serve chilled with any additional toppings.

Notes

  • Use frozen cherries for a juicier and faster-cooking compote.
  • Stir cocoa powder thoroughly to prevent clumps.
  • Let the oats soak for at least 6 hours for optimal texture.
  • Add toppings just before serving to keep them fresh.
  • Layering in a clear jar adds visual appeal and makes it fun to eat.
  • Make multiple jars ahead and store in fridge up to 4 days without toppings.
  • Substitute milk, sweeteners, or yogurt to suit dietary preferences.
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian