
Oats Overnight Cookie Dough Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mix the Ingredients: In a mason jar or mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chia seeds, cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the milk, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract. Stir everything together to ensure all the oats are well coated.
- Add Nut Butter (Optional): If using nut butter, add it at this stage and mix well to ensure it’s fully incorporated.
- Incorporate Chocolate Chips (Optional): Stir in the chocolate chips for that classic cookie dough flavor.
- Refrigerate: Seal the mason jar or cover the bowl with plastic wrap, then refrigerate overnight (or for at least 6 hours).
- Serve: The oats should have softened, and the mixture will resemble cookie dough. Stir it once more before serving and enjoy!
Notes
Are you craving a sweet, nutritious snack that’s both indulgent and easy to prepare? Look no further than the oats overnight cookie dough recipe! This delicious twist on traditional cookie dough combines the rich, creamy taste of cookie dough with the wholesome goodness of overnight oats. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying breakfast or a sweet treat, this recipe will surely hit the spot.
In this article, we’ll explore how to make the oats overnight cookie dough recipe, provide helpful cooking tips, answer frequently asked questions, and share a few variations, including the chocolate chip cookie dough overnight oats recipe. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into this delightful treat!
What Is an Oats Overnight Cookie Dough Recipe?
An oats overnight cookie dough recipe is a simple and delicious combination of ingredients like oats, milk, sweeteners, and flavorings, creating a no-bake treat that mimics the taste and texture of cookie dough. Instead of baking, you let the mixture sit in the refrigerator overnight, allowing the oats to soak up the liquid and absorb all the flavors. The result is a creamy, dough-like consistency perfect for a healthy breakfast, snack, or dessert.

This recipe is quick to prepare and requires little effort, making it an ideal option for busy mornings or a healthy late-night snack.
Why Choose an Overnight Oats Cookie Dough Recipe?
Here are a few reasons why the oats overnight cookie dough recipe has become a favorite among many:
- Healthy and Nutritious: Oats are high in fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. When combined with nutritious ingredients like chia seeds or nut butter, this recipe becomes a great source of energy and nutrients.
- Convenient and Time-Saving: With minimal prep time (only 5 minutes!), this recipe is perfect for those who need a quick breakfast or snack. The overnight soaking does all the work, and you’ll have a delicious treat waiting for you in the morning.
- Customizable: You can tailor the recipe to your preferences by adding chocolate chips, dried fruits, nuts, or even protein powder to make it your own. Whether you like it sweet or more savory, there’s a version for you.
- No-Bake: This recipe requires no cooking or baking, which is perfect if you don’t have time to bake or want to avoid turning on the oven.
Ingredients for Oats Overnight Cookie Dough Recipe
To make the oats overnight cookie dough recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Old-fashioned rolled oats – 1/2 cup (this provides the best texture for overnight oats)
- Milk (or non-dairy milk) – 1/2 cup (almond milk, coconut milk, or regular milk works well)
- Chia seeds – 1 tablespoon (adds fiber and helps create a thicker consistency)
- Sweetener – 1-2 tablespoons (honey, maple syrup, or stevia, depending on your preference)
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon (for a classic cookie dough flavor)
- Nut butter – 1 tablespoon (optional, but adds richness and creaminess)
- Cinnamon – 1/2 teaspoon (optional, but enhances the cookie dough taste)
- Chocolate chips – 2 tablespoons (optional, for a more indulgent treat)
- Pinch of salt – To enhance flavor

Optional Toppings:
- Chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans
- Additional chocolate chips for a more decadent treat
- Fresh fruit like berries or sliced banana for added nutrients
How to Make the Oats Overnight Cookie Dough Recipe
Now that you have all the ingredients, here’s how to make this delicious recipe:
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a bowl or mason jar, mix together the oats, chia seeds, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the milk (or non-dairy milk), vanilla extract, and sweetener. Stir well to combine and ensure the oats are fully coated.
- Add Nut Butter: If you’re using nut butter, add it now and stir to incorporate.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in the chocolate chips for that classic cookie dough flavor.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Seal the jar or cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight. The oats will soak up the liquid and soften to create a dough-like consistency.
- Serve and Enjoy: In the morning, give the mixture a quick stir, and your oats overnight cookie dough recipe is ready to be enjoyed! You can add extra toppings such as fresh fruit, nuts, or more chocolate chips.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Cookie Dough Oats
Here are some tips to ensure your oats overnight cookie dough recipe turns out perfectly:
- Use Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: For the best texture, use old-fashioned rolled oats rather than instant oats, as they provide a heartier texture and soak up the liquid better.
- Adjust the Sweetener: Depending on how sweet you like your treats, you can adjust the amount of honey, maple syrup, or other sweeteners. Start with less, then add more if needed.
- Stir Well: Be sure to stir the oats and other ingredients well to ensure everything is evenly mixed and the oats are fully coated with liquid.
- Let It Sit for At Least 6 Hours: While leaving the mixture overnight is ideal, you can also let it sit for a minimum of six hours if you’re short on time.
Variations of the Oats Overnight Cookie Dough Recipe
While the basic oats overnight cookie dough recipe is already amazing, there are several variations you can try to mix things up.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Overnight Oats Recipe
If you love chocolate, this variation is perfect for you. Simply add extra chocolate chips to the oats overnight cookie dough recipe for a sweeter, more indulgent treat. You can also drizzle some melted chocolate on top for extra richness.
Cookie Dough Overnight Oats with Nut Butter
For a creamy, nutty twist, consider adding almond, peanut, or cashew butter. This will enhance the texture and flavor, giving you a richer, more satisfying treat. Nut butter also provides healthy fats and protein, making it a great addition for those looking to boost their intake.

FAQs About Oats Overnight Cookie Dough Recipe
1. Can I use instant oats for this recipe?
While you can use instant oats for this recipe, it’s best to use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture and consistency. Instant oats are more processed and tend to become mushy when soaked overnight, which may affect the dough-like texture you want for the oats overnight cookie dough recipe. Old-fashioned rolled oats, on the other hand, absorb the liquid better and maintain a more hearty, chewy texture, which is ideal for this recipe.
2. How long can I store oats overnight cookie dough in the fridge?
You can store your oats overnight cookie dough in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container or jar to maintain freshness and prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge. If you’re planning to keep it longer, it’s best to freeze the mixture, and you can store it in the freezer for up to a month. When ready to eat, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving!
3. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily make the oats overnight cookie dough recipe vegan! Here’s how to adapt it:
Chocolate Chips: If you want to add chocolate chips, check that they are dairy-free or use vegan chocolate chips. Some regular chocolate chips contain milk, so be sure to choose a vegan-friendly brand.
Use Non-Dairy Milk: Instead of regular dairy milk, use any plant-based milk of your choice. Popular options include almond milk, oat milk, coconut milk, or soy milk.
Vegan Sweeteners: Make sure to use a vegan-friendly sweetener, such as maple syrup, agave nectar, or coconut sugar. Avoid honey, as it’s not considered vegan.
Nut Butter: Most nut butters (like peanut, almond, or cashew butter) are naturally vegan, but always double-check the ingredients to ensure there are no non-vegan additives (though this is rare).
Protein Powder: If you’re adding protein powder, make sure to use a vegan protein powder, such as pea protein, hemp protein, or brown rice protein. Many plant-based protein powders are available at most health food stores or online.
4. Can I add protein powder to this recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely add protein powder to the oats overnight cookie dough recipe! Protein powder is a great way to increase the protein content of your dish, making it more filling and beneficial for muscle recovery or as a post-workout snack.
To add protein powder, follow these simple steps:
Mix Well: Make sure to mix the protein powder thoroughly with the other ingredients to avoid clumps and ensure even distribution throughout the oats.
Amount: Start by adding about 1 scoop of your preferred protein powder (usually around 20-30 grams of protein, depending on the brand). You can adjust the amount based on your protein needs.
Adjust Liquid: Since protein powder can absorb some liquid, you may need to add a little extra liquid (milk, almond milk, or water) to keep the mixture creamy and prevent it from becoming too thick. Start with an extra tablespoon or two and adjust as necessary.
Flavor Considerations: Choose a protein powder that complements the flavors of the oats. For example, vanilla, chocolate, or cinnamon-flavored protein powder would work well with the oats overnight cookie dough recipe. If using an unflavored protein powder, you may want to add a bit more sweetener or vanilla extract for flavor.
5. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
o make the oats overnight cookie dough recipe gluten-free, you simply need to ensure you’re using certified gluten-free oats. While oats are naturally gluten-free, they can sometimes be processed in facilities that handle gluten-containing grains, which can lead to cross-contamination. Certified gluten-free oats are processed in dedicated facilities to avoid this, ensuring that your recipe remains gluten-free.
Apart from that, the rest of the ingredients in the recipe (like milk, sweeteners, and nut butter) are typically gluten-free, but always double-check labels to ensure there are no hidden gluten-containing additives.
6.Can I add chocolate chips to the oats overnight cookie dough recipe?
Yes, you can definitely add chocolate chips to the oats overnight cookie dough recipe! Adding chocolate chips will give it that classic cookie dough flavor and make it even more delicious. You can use regular chocolate chips or even dark chocolate for a richer taste. Just stir them in with the other ingredients before refrigerating, and enjoy a sweet, indulgent treat in the morning!
7.What is the best time to eat oats overnight cookie dough?
The best time to eat oats overnight cookie dough is typically in the morning as a healthy breakfast, especially since it’s quick and easy to prepare the night before. It’s a great option for busy mornings when you need something nutritious and satisfying.
However, it can also serve as a mid-day snack or a light dessert. Thanks to its balanced ingredients, it provides a good mix of fiber, protein, and healthy fats, making it a versatile choice for any time of day!
8.Yes, you can definitely add fruit to the oats overnight cookie dough recipe! Adding fruit is a great way to enhance the flavor and add natural sweetness. Some popular fruit options include:
- Bananas: Sliced bananas pair well with the dough-like texture and add a creamy, natural sweetness.
- Berries: Blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries add a burst of flavor and antioxidants.
- Apples: Chopped apples with a sprinkle of cinnamon can give your oats a delicious, apple-pie-like taste.
- Dried fruit: Raisins, cranberries, or dried apricots work well if you prefer a chewy texture.
You can stir the fruit in before refrigerating the oats or add it as a topping right before serving!
8.Can I add fruit to the oats overnight cookie dough recipe?
Yes, you can definitely add fruit to the oats overnight cookie dough recipe! Adding fruit is a great way to enhance the flavor and add natural sweetness. Some popular fruit options include:
- Bananas: Sliced bananas pair well with the dough-like texture and add a creamy, natural sweetness.
- Berries: Blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries add a burst of flavor and antioxidants.
- Apples: Chopped apples with a sprinkle of cinnamon can give your oats a delicious, apple-pie-like taste.
- Dried fruit: Raisins, cranberries, or dried apricots work well if you prefer a chewy texture.
You can stir the fruit in before refrigerating the oats or add it as a topping right before serving!
9.Is this recipe suitable for kids?
oats overnight cookie dough recipe is definitely suitable for kids! It’s a nutritious and customizable option that provides essential nutrients like fiber, protein, and healthy fats. Here’s why it’s great for children:
- Healthy Ingredients: The recipe includes oats, chia seeds, and nut butter, which are all good sources of energy and nutrients for growing kids.
- Customizable: You can add fruit, chocolate chips, or nuts to make it more appealing to kids’ tastes. It’s also easy to adjust the sweetness to their liking.
- Easy to Prepare: Since it’s a no-bake recipe that you prepare the night before, it’s convenient for busy parents and easy for kids to enjoy in the morning.
- Kid-Friendly Flavors: The taste is similar to cookie dough, so kids will love it as a treat while still being healthy.
It’s a great option for breakfast or a snack, and you can even involve kids in the preparation process for a fun, hands-on experience!
10.How do I make this recipe more filling?
To make the oats overnight cookie dough recipe more filling, you can add ingredients that boost the protein, healthy fats, and fiber content. Here are a few ideas:
1. Add Protein Powder
You can easily add a scoop of protein powder (whey, plant-based, or collagen) to increase the protein content, making the recipe more filling and satisfying.
2. Incorporate Nut Butter
If you haven’t already added nut butter (like peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter), this is a great way to add healthy fats and protein, helping to keep you fuller for longer.
3. Add Greek Yogurt
Stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt for an extra protein boost. It also makes the texture creamier and adds probiotics for digestive health.
4. Chia Seeds or Flax Seeds
These seeds are packed with fiber, omega-3s, and healthy fats. Adding a tablespoon of chia seeds or flax seeds will help keep you full throughout the day.
5. Add Nuts
Chop up nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans and stir them into the oats. They add extra protein, healthy fats, and crunch, making the recipe more satisfying.
6. Use Oat Flour or Rolled Oats
Incorporating oat flour or more rolled oats into the recipe increases the fiber content, which will help with satiety and make the recipe more filling.
7. Top with Fruit
Adding fruits like bananas (which are higher in fiber) or berries will not only boost the flavor but also increase fiber content, contributing to fullness.
By adding any of these ingredients, you’ll be able to turn the recipe into a heartier meal or snack that will keep you fuller for longer!
Conclusion
The oats overnight cookie dough recipe is a fun and delicious way to enjoy the taste of cookie dough without the guilt. It’s a perfect option for breakfast, a snack, or even a light dessert that is both healthy and customizable. With simple ingredients like oats, chia seeds, and milk, you can create a treat that’s packed with nutrients and flavor.
Feel free to experiment with different variations like the chocolate chip cookie dough overnight oats or cookie dough oats with nut butter. With minimal prep time and a delectable result, you can enjoy a healthier version of cookie dough whenever you like!