One of the main staples in a bodybuilder’s diet is oatmeal. You should see the massive container of oats I have in my kitchen. I use them in meatloaf, muffins, waffles, and of course oatmeal.
They’re the perfect combination of protein, fiber, and yumminess. If you’ve ever been a victim of an oatmeal overflow in the microwave, you’re probably looking for ways to avoid this clean up nightmare. <drum roll> Enter the overnight oats solution.
Overnight oats are basically raw oats mixed with liquid of choice. You let it sit overnight so the oats absorb the liquid, no cooking required. No risk of microwave explosion. No effort required and very little clean up. I’m in love with overnight oats since you can dream up flavors and add-ins to your heart’s content.
I’ve played around with them for a bit, trying them with water, almond milk, coconut milk. I’ve also used fruits, toppings, and other flavorings. This week I created the best flavor combination I’ve had yet. It was foodgasmic good… it’s also gorgeous to look at. If there were an oat beauty contest, these would win.
Pumpkin Chocolate Overnight Oats
Bottom Layer
- 1/2 cup old fashioned oats
- 1/4 cup almond milk
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 Tbsp chia seeds
- 1 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa
Middle Layer
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin
Top Layer
- 1/2 scoop (17g) vanilla protein powder
- 2 Tbsp water
Mix the ingredients for the bottom layer in a jar or other container with a lid. I use a mason jar with the screw top lid. Add the pumpkin for the middle layer on top. If you want, you can mix the pumpkin with cinnamon or other spices. I had mine plain.
Mix the vanilla protein powder with enough water to make a pudding consistency. Spoon the protein pudding on top. Don’t stir the layers. Just leave them separated. Cover with the lid and refrigerate overnight.
Makes 1 serving at approximately 302 calories – 22g protein, 44g carbs, and 6g fat.
Get creative with the ratios to meet your needs. Some days I do 1/3 cup oats, or 1/2 cup almond milk and no water. Use a different flavor protein powder or top with yogurt instead. You can also completely change the flavors by adding different spices. If you don’t like pumpkin, use blueberries or strawberries.
Make it your own version of overnight oats. Let me know what your favorite combination is. Also inquiring minds… Do you stir your oats before eating or do you eat them unmixed?
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