This protein-rich Chunky Monkey Overnight Oats recipe is rich, creamy, and packed with peanut butter, banana, and cocoa. It's an easy no-cook breakfast you can make ahead for busy mornings or satisfying grab-and-go snack. (Vegan, gluten-free, refined oil-free.)
These overnight oats are creamy, satisfying, and incredibly convenient! They're an easy make-ahead breakfast with zero cooking required. Just stir, chill, and wake up to a ready-to-eat jar of goodness!
Inspired by the classic "chunky monkey" flavor combo, this version combines ripe banana, creamy peanut butter, and rich cocoa powder for a naturally sweet, indulgent taste that still feels nourishing.
They're perfect for busy mornings or a protein-rich snack. (Each serving has about 18 grams plant-based protein!) Prep them in advance for easy grab-and-go fuel, then customize them with your favorite toppings like berries, banana, extra peanut butter, or chocolate chips.
Ingredients for Chunky Monkey Oats
For this simple recipe, you'll stir together in a small bowl or jar:
- Ripe mashed banana: The more brown spots, then the sweeter it will be.
- Rolled oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats work best with this recipe. (Be sure to use gluten-free oats if needed.)
- Dairy-free milk: Any non-dairy milk works great. I usually use unsweetened almond milk or homemade cashew milk.
- Peanut butter: I use natural and creamy. Or you can substitute your favorite nut butter or seed butter instead, but this will slightly alter the flavor.
- Chia seeds: These help thicken the mixture, plus includes fiber and omega-3.
- Cocoa powder: This provides the rich chocolate flavor. (Or you can also substitute cacao powder.)
- Pure maple syrup: This works great as a natural sweetener. Adjust the amount however you see fit to find the right level of sweetness for you.
Customizing
Expand on this recipe however you see fit! Add vanilla extract, almond extract, or ground cinnamon for different flavor variations. Or simply add more banana or peanut butter as desired.
Serving
Enjoy your overnight oats right out of the jar, or garnish with toppings before serving. A few ideas include:
- Sliced banana
- Extra peanut butter
- Fresh fruit (like strawberries or raspberries)
- Peanut Butter Granola
- Cacao nibs, vegan mini chocolate chips, or dark chocolate chunks
- Coconut shreds
Storing
Once your oat mixture is combined, then chill it in a small bowl or jar for at least 5 hours or more in the refrigerator. (Overnight is perfect!) I find it can last a few days, but is best enjoyed within the first day or two.
For more inspiration, also browse all vegan breakfast recipes.
Chunky Monkey Overnight Oats (Vegan!)
Ingredients
- 1/2 ripe banana
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (GF if desired)
- 1/2 cup dairy-free milk
- 2 tsp. chia seeds
- 2 tsp. cocoa powder
- 1-2 Tbsp. pure maple syrup
- 2 Tbsp. peanut butter (creamy, natural)
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, mash the banana.
- Then add the oats, milk, chia seeds, cocoa powder, and maple syrup. Stir well to combine.
- Add the peanut butter. (I like to drop mine in small dollops so there are clumps of peanut butter.) Gently stir to combine.
- Transfer mixture to a mason jar or small bowl. Then lightly press down with a spoon to make sure oats are fully immersed in the liquid.
- Cover and refrigerate at least 5 hours or overnight.
Notes
Nutrition Per Serving (Estimate)
Sodium content: This is omitted as I cannot provide an accurate number. I encourage you to calculate your own to provide a much more precise reading based on the exact ingredients, brands, and amounts you're using.
If you're enjoying these chunky monkey overnight oats with peanut butter, banana, and chocolate, also check out:
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Crystal M Pfeifer says
Could I use ground flax seeds instead of the chia seeds and get similar consistancy?
Kaitlin says
Hi Crystal! Sure, ground flax could thicken it up as well. It won't have as much of that "gel-like" consistency that chia delivers, and the flax will add more of a sweet/nutty flavor. But they should be interchangeable. Hope you enjoy if you give it a try!
Jamie T. says
My whole family loves this recipe!!
Kaitlin says
Awesome, Jamie!
Tara says
This came out super good! Excellent breakfast and quick & easy to prepare.
Kaitlin says
So great to hear - thank you!