If breakfast could taste like dessert and still fuel your day, this would be it. These Cookie Dough Overnight Oats combine the cozy flavor of cookie dough with the satisfying nutrition of oats and protein. It’s creamy, chocolatey, and ready when you wake up—no cooking, no stress, just grab and go.
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Why you’ll love this Cookie Dough Overnight Oats
This recipe is what breakfast dreams are made of—sweet, smooth, and secretly nutritious.
- High in protein and fiber to keep you full
- Tastes like cookie dough but made with healthy ingredients
- Takes just 5 minutes to prep
- Gluten-free and dairy-free adaptable
- Perfect for meal prep or busy mornings
- Customizable with your favorite mix-ins
Growing up, I used to sneak bites of cookie dough from my mom’s mixing bowl while she made desserts for the food truck. These oats bring back that same joy—but in a wholesome way I can serve my kids. It’s the kind of breakfast that feels indulgent yet fuels you right for the day ahead.
Ingredients you’ll need
These oats come together from pantry staples and a few wholesome upgrades.
Main ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats (use gluten-free oats if needed)
- 1 tbsp chia seeds (for texture and extra fiber)
- 2 tbsp mini chocolate chips (dark or milk—your choice)
- 1 scoop protein powder (vanilla or unflavored works great)
- 1 pinch kosher salt (balances sweetness)
- 2 tbsp peanut butter or almond butter (creamy texture + healthy fats)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (just enough natural sweetness)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (gives it that cookie dough aroma)
- 1 cup milk (almond, cashew, or dairy milk for creaminess)
Optional add-ons or substitutes
- Swap nut butter for sunflower butter for a nut-free option
- Use oat milk for extra thickness
- Add crushed walnuts or pecans for crunch
- Stir in a spoon of Greek yogurt for creamier texture
- Replace maple syrup with honey or date syrup
- Top with banana slices or cocoa nibs before serving
Step-by-step instructions
Making overnight oats is one of those things that proves great food doesn’t need fuss.
- Mix the dry ingredients. Combine oats, chia seeds, protein powder, salt, and chocolate chips in a jar or bowl. (This keeps everything evenly distributed.)
- Add the wet ingredients. Stir in milk, maple syrup, nut butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth. (I like to whisk the nut butter in warm milk first for a silky blend.)
- Seal and refrigerate. Cover and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight. (Overnight soaking gives that perfect cookie dough texture.)
- Stir and serve. Give it a quick stir before serving. Top with extra chocolate chips or nut butter drizzle if you’re feeling fancy.
- Optional warm-up. Heat briefly in the microwave for a warm cookie-dough flavor twist.
Quick reminders:
- Stir twice if using chia seeds—they like to clump early
- Use a wide-mouth jar for easier mixing
- Add toppings right before serving for freshness
- Store in single portions for grab-and-go mornings
Expert tips for success
Texture and flavor make these oats shine. Here’s how to get them perfect every time.
- Use creamy nut butter for smooth consistency
- Don’t skip the salt—it brings cookie flavor alive
- Vanilla protein powder gives that dessert-like taste
- Add a few extra chocolate chips before serving for crunch
- Adjust milk based on your texture preference (thicker or looser)
- Shake the jar after the first hour to keep everything evenly soaked
- Prep 3–4 jars at once for easy weekday breakfasts
This recipe pairs beautifully with something savory like my Egg Sliders or even a side of Peanut Butter Spritz Cookies if you’re in a weekend treat mood.
Serving suggestions
These oats taste incredible straight from the fridge, but you can dress them up too.
- Top with sliced bananas or strawberries
- Add a drizzle of almond butter for extra creaminess
- Sprinkle granola for crunch
- Pair with your morning coffee or smoothie
- Enjoy warm for a soft cookie dough feel
- Layer with Greek yogurt for a parfait-style breakfast
They’re versatile enough for meal prep, brunch gatherings, or even dessert-style snacks after dinner. Try pairing them with my Protein Oreo Fluff for a fun, high-protein combo.
Storing and reheating
These oats are made for convenience—you can meal prep them days in advance.
How to store it
- Store in sealed glass jars or containers
- Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days
- Avoid freezing; the oats lose texture
- Stir before eating to refresh consistency
- Add a splash of milk before serving if too thick
How to reheat it
- Microwave for 30–45 seconds for a warm version
- Stir halfway through to avoid hot spots
- Add milk or water to loosen up
- Enjoy cold right out of the fridge for a refreshing bite
- Don’t overheat or it’ll lose that cookie-dough texture
Even after days, the flavor stays bold, sweet, and perfectly balanced—like cookie dough without the guilt.
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 380 | Protein: 25g | Carbs: 38g | Fat: 14g | Fiber: 7g | Calcium: 20% DV
Frequently asked questions
Can I make these without protein powder?
Yes! Just add an extra tablespoon of oats or nut butter to balance texture and nutrition.
Do I need to cook the oats?
Nope! The soaking process softens them perfectly overnight.
Can I use steel-cut oats instead?
You can, but soak longer—ideally 24 hours—and expect a chewier bite.
Final thoughts
Cookie Dough Overnight Oats bring joy to breakfast again—creamy, nostalgic, and full of goodness. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or need a post-workout pick-me-up, this recipe keeps you fueled and happy. It’s one of those dishes that makes healthy eating feel effortless and delicious.
- Mix ahead, rest overnight, and enjoy your morning
- Use quality ingredients for best flavor
- Remember: breakfast should always feel this good
High-Protein Cookie Dough Overnight Oats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a jar or bowl, combine oats, chia seeds, protein powder, salt, and chocolate chips.
- Add milk, maple syrup, nut butter, and vanilla extract. Stir well until smooth and combined.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until thick and creamy.
- Stir before serving. Add toppings like extra chocolate chips or nut butter if desired. Serve chilled or warm briefly in the microwave.
Nutrition
Notes
2. For smoother consistency, whisk nut butter into warmed milk before mixing.
3. Add extra chocolate chips or nut butter drizzle before serving for a more indulgent feel.
