Starting your day with a nourishing breakfast is easier than you think when you make this creamy and indulgent Raw Cacao Hazelnut Overnight Oats Recipe. It's perfect to prep the night before for busy mornings when you want something comforting, energizing, and quick. You'll love how the rich cacao and the nutty crunch come together to make something deliciously satisfying without any fuss.

Raw Cacao Hazelnut Overnight Oats Recipe - Recipe Image — Raw Cacao Hazelnut Overnight Oats, healthy overnight oats with cacao, easy breakfast recipe, nutritious hazelnut oats, energy-boosting breakfast ideas

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Why This Recipe Works
Ingredient Game Plan
How to Cook Raw Cacao Hazelnut Overnight Oats Recipe
Pro Moves I Swear By
Serve It Up
Make-Ahead & Storage
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Complete Recipe

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Why This Recipe Works

This recipe strikes the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and simplicity. Overnight oats naturally soften with time, but this variation delivers a smooth, velvety bite with just the right chew thanks to well-chosen ingredients. Raw cacao powder lends a deep, earthy chocolate flavor without overwhelming sweetness, while chopped hazelnuts add a pleasant crunch and rich nuttiness. Plus, this recipe is straightforward and relies on pantry staples you likely have on hand - making mornings stress-free.

Consistent Texture: Soaking oats overnight lets them absorb liquid fully, ensuring each spoonful is creamy yet still holds its structure.
Deep, Balanced Flavor: Raw cacao brings an intense chocolate base that's mellowed with just a touch of maple syrup and vanilla.
Simple Ingredients: Minimal, wholesome components make this both nourishing and easy to customize to dietary needs.
Fast Prep, Big Payoff: A few minutes before bed leads to a ready-made breakfast that feels like a treat without extra effort.

Ingredient Game Plan

Choosing quality ingredients really elevates this Raw Cacao Hazelnut Overnight Oats Recipe. I like to pick fresh, organic rolled oats and raw cacao powder with a deep aroma. The texture and flavor shine through better when your hazelnuts are freshly chopped rather than pre-ground or stale-trust me on this one!

Rolled Oats: Opt for whole rolled oats, not instant, to keep that satisfying chew and texture overnight.
Raw Cacao Powder: Look for unsweetened cacao powder to control sweetness and deepen flavor.
Almond Milk: Choose unsweetened to avoid excess sugar, or sub your favorite plant-based milk.
Maple Syrup: I prefer maple for its natural caramel notes; honey works too but changes the flavor subtly.
Hazelnuts: Freshly chopped is best; toast lightly if you want to unlock even more aroma.

Quick Note: Exact measurements are in the printable recipe card at the bottom.

How to Cook Raw Cacao Hazelnut Overnight Oats Recipe

Step 1 - Prep & Season

Begin by mixing rolled oats with your choice of almond milk in a bowl. Add raw cacao powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and just a pinch of sea salt to balance the flavors. You'll notice the powder blends better if you stir gently but thoroughly until the mixture has a silky cocoa color and no clumps. This step sets the foundation for the luscious texture you'll enjoy the next morning.

Step 2 - Build Flavor

Divide the mixture evenly into two airtight containers or mason jars, sealing them tightly to prevent any fridge odors from sneaking in. This helps the oats soak properly overnight and absorb the rich flavors without drying out. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours-but trust me, overnight is best for that deep melding of chocolate and nuttiness.

Step 3 - Finish for Best Texture

When morning arrives, give your Raw Cacao Hazelnut Overnight Oats a good stir to evenly distribute the creaminess. If the mixture feels too thick for your taste, add a splash of more almond milk and mix gently-it should slip off the spoon smoothly but still feel substantial. Finally, sprinkle chopped hazelnuts on top for a toasty crunch that brightens the whole bowl.

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Pro Moves I Swear By

Over the years, I've learned a few tips that turn this simple recipe into a daily delight without adding effort. These little secrets ensure you get the perfect balance of creaminess and flavor every time.

Doneness Cue: The oats are ready when the liquid is absorbed and the mixture jiggles slightly but holds its shape.
Temperature Trick: I like to remove the oats from the fridge a few minutes before eating to let flavors bloom and chill soften.
Make-Ahead Move: Prepare a double batch to save time and have nourishing breakfasts for up to 3 days.
Skip This Pitfall: Avoid adding too much sweetener upfront; you can always top with fruit or drizzle more after tasting.

Serve It Up

Finishing Touches

I love adding fresh fruit on top - ripe banana slices, juicy berries, or even diced apple work beautifully here. They bring brightness and a natural sweetness that complements the deep cacao. A drizzle of extra maple syrup or a sprinkle of cinnamon personalizes it further. Of course, the chopped hazelnuts finish it off with that irresistible crunch and a layer of warmth that feels like comfort in a spoon.

Great Pairings

This Raw Cacao Hazelnut Overnight Oats Recipe pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a creamy herbal tea to round out your morning. For a bit more protein and texture, a side of Greek yogurt or a hard-boiled egg makes a balanced plate that's both filling and satisfying.

Easy Plating Wins

Serving your oats in clear glass jars or bowls lets the rich chocolatey color shine through-it's a feast for your eyes as well as your taste buds. Top with a few whole hazelnuts around the edge or a dusting of cacao powder for a little extra flair when you're hosting or just treating yourself.

Make-Ahead & Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover oats store best in airtight glass containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. You'll notice the texture becomes thicker as the oats continue absorbing liquid, so before eating, stir in a little milk to loosen it up smooth and creamy again.

Freezer Notes

This recipe doesn't freeze particularly well because the texture of oats and milk changes after thawing and becomes grainy. I recommend sticking to making smaller batches for freshness instead of freezing.

Reheating Raw Cacao Hazelnut Overnight Oats Recipe Without Drying Out

If you prefer warm oats, gently reheat your serving in the microwave for 30-second bursts, stirring in a splash of milk to keep things silky. Alternatively, a quick steam on the stovetop with an added splash of milk will bring it to cozy warmth without drying it out. This keeps the texture luxuriously creamy and prevents the oats from becoming tough.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats in this recipe?

Quick oats can get too mushy when soaked overnight, resulting in a texture that's less satisfying. Rolled oats maintain a pleasant chew and are the best choice for this recipe.

Is raw cacao powder the same as cocoa powder?

Raw cacao powder is less processed and contains more nutrients and antioxidants than typical cocoa powder. It also tends to have a slightly more bitter, earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with nuts like hazelnuts in this recipe.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Using plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and maple syrup keeps this recipe fully vegan while still rich and delicious.

How long can I store Raw Cacao Hazelnut Overnight Oats in the fridge?

For the best texture and flavor, consume your overnight oats within 3 days of preparation. Beyond that, they may become overly thick and less enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

I find this Raw Cacao Hazelnut Overnight Oats Recipe to be a comforting, energizing way to start my day-especially when time is tight. Its balance of rich chocolate notes, nutty texture, and creamy oats turns a simple meal into something I actually look forward to. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do and that it becomes a go-to breakfast in your routine too.

Complete Recipe