Brownie Batter Overnight Oats

I coming at you today with a RECIPE!!


Do you want to know why I am so excited about this recipe?  Well there are a couple reasons:

1. It is super quick and is a perfect satisfying meal on-the-go
2. It keeps me full all morning (and it can for you too!)
3. It tastes over the top AMAZING!!!  Just like brownie batter, no joke! (Andrew, my husband, even agreed...)

Now, before I dive into the recipe, you know I have to give a bit of health information on the ingredients, so bear with me (or just scroll down to the recipe, I don't mind).

The main ingredients here are oats, chia seeds, cacao/cocoa powder, and unsweetened almond milk.  The ingredients in this recipe can be swapped for any foods of your liking, but this is the way I made it and was amazed at the results.

• Oats- These nutrition powerhouses are loaded with fiber, protein, and healthy fats to keep you full and satisfied.  They are also a whole grain; double bonus!  The type of fiber found in oats is called  soluble fiber and is great for heart health, diabetes protection, weight loss/maintenance, and a healthy digestive tract.
• Chia seeds- These little guys pack a huge nutritional punch considering how small they are!  Also packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats; chia seeds are a great source of Omega-3s.  Omega-3 fatty acids are typically very low in the standard American diet, but are Essential to great health.  This type of fat can help lower blood triglycerides, reduce inflammation, and reduce your risk of cancer (plus many more...but that will be for another post).  Check out AuthorityNutrition's blog post on 11 proven health benefits of chia seeds for more info!!!

The rest of the ingredients are mainly for flavor and texture, but they all do have some great vitamins and minerals.  Ok, on to the recipe!  All you need are the ingredients, a container with a lid, and 30 seconds to assemble.

Ingredients (makes 1 serving):

• 1/2 cup rolled oats (if you are sensitive to gluten, make sure the label reads gluten free!  Although oats are naturally gluten free, many are processed in a facility that also processes wheat)
• 1 Tbsp chia seeds (any color will do)
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon (eyeball it...)
• 2 Tbsp unsweetened cacao or cocoa powder
• 1 Tbsp maple syrup (or to taste)
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk

Optional add-ins:

• powdered peanut butter
• chopped banana
• fresh, frozen, or dried fruit
• unsweetened coconut flakes

Directions:

• Dump all ingredients into your container of choice (I prefer a glass jar with a lid).  Shake or stir well, then you have 2 options: 1) If you are doing this the night before, place in the refrigerator and enjoy in the morning.  2)If you are doing this in the morning, pack it in your bag and after about 30 minutes to an hour, it is ready to eat (just in time for when you get to the office).

The great thing about this recipe is (if you don't add any fresh fruit or dairy) it can travel with you in your bag for several hours, so it makes a perfect breakfast, lunch, mid-day snack, or even dinner!

Let me know if you try it and what add-ins you used!!

Question of the day:  What is your favorite topping for oatmeal (cold or hot)?