My favorite kitchen hack is turning dessert-inspired flavors into a nourishing breakfast without any fuss. These Almond Joy Overnight Oats require just a few minutes of prep at night for a low-sugar, grab-and-go treat that feels indulgent. It’s the kind of breakfast magic that makes busy mornings feel a little more special, a little more joyful, and a whole lot easier. If you love easy, make-ahead breakfasts, you might also enjoy our Slow Cooker Oats with Cinnamon Berries for a warm, cozy alternative.
We all have those mornings, right? The alarm goes off, the day’s to-do list starts scrolling in your head, and the last thing you want to do is figure out what to eat. That’s where these Almond Joy Overnight Oats (Low Sugar) come in. They’re my answer to the siren call of a candy bar, transformed into something that actually fuels your body and keeps you satisfied. It’s comfort food, made easy, right from your fridge.
This recipe captures everything we love about that classic combination—toasty coconut, rich chocolate, and crunchy almonds—but in a wholesome, make-ahead jar. It’s proof that you don’t have to choose between flavor and feeling good. So, let’s make breakfast something to look forward to.
Table of Contents
Almond Joy Overnight Oats (Low Sugar)
My favorite kitchen hack is turning dessert-inspired flavors into a nourishing breakfast without any fuss. These Almond Joy Overnight Oats require just a few minutes of prep at night for a low-sugar, grab-and-go treat that feels indulgent. It’s the kind of breakfast magic that makes busy mornings feel a little more special, a little more joyful, and a whole lot easier.
- Prep Time: 5min
- Cook Time: 0min
- Total Time: 4h 5min
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: breakfast
- Method: no-cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut, toasted
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup or honey
- ½ teaspoon pure almond extract
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
- Toast the coconut in a small dry skillet over medium-low heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant and lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly.
- In a medium bowl or directly in your jar, whisk together the almond milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, cocoa powder, maple syrup, almond extract, and salt until completely smooth.
- Stir in the rolled oats and most of the toasted coconut, reserving a little for topping.
- Divide the mixture between two jars or containers with airtight lids.
- Seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
- Before serving, stir the oats and top with the reserved toasted coconut, chopped almonds, and dark chocolate chips if desired.
Notes
For best results, use old-fashioned rolled oats, not quick oats. Stir the mixture well to fully incorporate the cocoa powder. The oats can be stored in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. For a higher protein version, add a scoop of protein powder and a splash more milk.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8
- Sodium: 180
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Unsaturated Fat: 6
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 9
- Protein: 15
- Cholesterol: 5
Ingredients List
These Almond Joy Overnight Oats (Low Sugar) come together with simple, wholesome ingredients that create that iconic candy bar flavor profile. The beauty is in the balance: creamy oats, rich cocoa, and natural sweetness.
- Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: The hearty, chewy base. Don’t use quick oats or steel-cut here; rolled oats soak up the liquid perfectly for the ideal texture.
- Unsweetened Almond Milk: My go-to for keeping it dairy-free and enhancing the almond flavor. Any milk you like works.
- Plain Greek Yogurt: This is the secret to ultra-creamy, protein-packed oats. It adds a lovely tang that balances the sweetness.
- Chia Seeds: These little powerhouses thicken the mixture naturally and add a boost of fiber and omega-3s.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: For that deep, chocolatey essence without any added sugar.
- Unsweetened Shredded Coconut: This brings the essential coconut flavor. Toasting it first is a game-changer for extra aroma.
- Pure Maple Syrup or Honey: Just a touch for subtle sweetness. You can adjust to your taste.
- Pure Almond Extract: A tiny splash intensifies the almond joy experience.
- A Pinch of Salt: Crucial for making all the flavors pop.
Smart Swaps:
- Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
- Lower Sugar: Swap the maple syrup for a few drops of liquid stevia or monk fruit.
- Nut-Free: Use oat milk and skip the almond extract. Sunflower seeds make a great crunchy topping instead of almonds.
Timing
One of the best parts of these healthy breakfast recipes is how they respect your time.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours (or overnight)
- Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes (mostly hands-off!)
That’s it. Five minutes tonight means a delicious, ready-to-eat breakfast is waiting for you tomorrow. It’s about 100% less stressful than scrambling eggs while trying to find your keys.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating these easy overnight oats healthy is as simple as mix, jar, and chill. Let’s walk through it.
1. Toast the Coconut (Optional but Recommended)
In a small dry skillet over medium-low heat, toast the unsweetened shredded coconut for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it’s fragrant and just starting to turn golden. This unlocks an incredible depth of flavor. Let it cool for a minute.
2. Combine the Base
In a medium bowl or directly in your jar, whisk together the almond milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, cocoa powder, maple syrup, almond extract, and salt until smooth and no cocoa lumps remain.
3. Mix in the Oats and Coconut
Stir in the rolled oats and most of the toasted coconut (save a little for topping!). Mix everything until well combined.
4. Jar and Chill
Divide the mixture between two jars or containers with lids. Seal them up and pop them in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. The oats and chia seeds will soften and absorb the liquid, creating a perfect, pudding-like consistency.
Pro Tip: Give the jar a good shake or stir after about an hour in the fridge. This prevents the chia seeds from clumping at the bottom and ensures every bite is perfectly creamy.
Nutritional Information
This isn’t just a tasty treat; it’s a nourishing start to your day. Per serving (approximate):
- Calories: ~320
- Protein: ~15g (Thanks, Greek yogurt!)
- Carbohydrates: ~45g
- Dietary Fiber: ~9g
- Sugar: ~8g (primarily natural from maple syrup)
- Fat: ~12g (healthy fats from almonds, chia, and coconut)
The combination of complex carbs from the oats, protein from the yogurt, and healthy fats provides sustained energy to keep you full and focused all morning. It’s a balanced meal in a jar.
Equipment Needed
You don’t need anything fancy for these overnight oats in a jar. Just a few basics from a regular kitchen.
- Mixing Bowl & Whisk: For combining everything smoothly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Small Skillet: For toasting the coconut.
- Two 12-16 oz Jars or Containers with Lids: Mason jars are perfect, but any airtight container works. This is what makes it a true grab-and-go breakfast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This low-sugar Almond Joy Overnight Oats recipe earns a permanent spot in your rotation for so many reasons.
- It Tastes Like a Treat: It satisfies that dessert-for-breakfast craving in the healthiest way possible.
- Meal Prep Hero: Make a batch on Sunday, and you have breakfast sorted for days. It’s the ultimate make-ahead solution.
- Endlessly Customizable: Once you master the base, the flavor variations are endless. Check out our The Best High Protein Overnight Oats (3 Flavors) for more inspiration.
- Family-Friendly: Kids adore the chocolate-coconut flavor, and you’ll love that they’re eating something wholesome.
- No Cooking Required: Just mix and chill. It couldn’t be simpler.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Want to tweak this Almond Joy Overnight Oats (Low Sugar) recipe to fit specific needs? Easy.
- Higher Protein: Add a scoop of vanilla or chocolate protein powder. You may need to add a splash more milk to reach the desired consistency.
- Keto/Lower Carb: Use a keto-friendly sweetener and replace half the oats with hemp hearts or more chia seeds.
- Sugar-Free: Use a sugar-free maple syrup alternative and ensure your cocoa powder and coconut are unsweetened.
- Added Veggies: Believe it or not, a handful of spinach blended into the milk mixture is undetectable and adds nutrients! This creates delicious blended overnight oats.
Serving Suggestions
When morning comes, it’s time for the fun part: the toppings! This is where you make it your own.
- The Classic: A sprinkle of the reserved toasted coconut, a handful of chopped almonds, and a few dark chocolate chips.
- Extra Decadent: A drizzle of almond butter or a dollop of coconut whipped cream.
- Fresh & Bright: Add some fresh raspberries or sliced strawberries for a pop of color and tartness.
- For a Warm Option: While typically eaten cold, you can gently heat these oats in the microwave for 30-60 seconds if you prefer a cozy bowl.
Pair it with a piece of fruit or a hard-boiled egg for an even more substantial meal. If you love warm, cozy oats, you might also enjoy our Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Steel Cut Oats for a weekend treat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the simplest recipes have pitfalls. Here’s how to nail your Almond Joy Overnight Oats every time.
- Using Quick Oats: They turn to mush. Stick with old-fashioned rolled oats for the perfect chewy texture.
- Skipping the Salt: Salt is not optional here. It balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate and coconut flavors.
- Not Stirring Enough Before Chilling: If you don’t whisk the cocoa powder in thoroughly, you’ll get dry, bitter clumps in your finished oats. Take that extra 30 seconds to get it smooth.
- Not Letting Them Soak Long Enough: Four hours is the minimum. Overnight is best for the creamiest results and fullest flavor infusion.
- Making the Mixture Too Dry: The oats and chia seeds will absorb a lot of liquid. If your mixture looks too thick after stirring, add another tablespoon or two of milk. It should be pourable.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
These oats are the definition of a make-ahead marvel.
- Refrigerator: Store in airtight jars or containers for up to 4-5 days. They are perfect for weekly meal prep.
- Freezer: Yes, you can freeze overnight oats! Portion them into freezer-safe jars, leaving a little room for expansion. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before eating.
- On the Go: The jar is its own container. Just grab a spoon and you’re out the door. It’s the easiest portable breakfast.
- Best Containers: Mason jars with leak-proof lids are ideal. For more make-ahead breakfast inspiration, see our Make-Ahead Protein Oatmeal Bake for Busy Mornings.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, or rather, at the start of it, good food should bring you joy. These Almond Joy Overnight Oats (Low Sugar) do exactly that. They transform a few pantry staples into a breakfast that feels like a loving gesture to your future self—a delicious, nutritious, and incredibly convenient way to begin your day.
It’s a reminder that eating well doesn’t have to be complicated or bland. With a little prep and the right combination of flavors, you can have healthy snacks and satisfying meals ready when you need them most. For another simple, flavorful twist, try our Maple Pecan Overnight Oats.
I’d love to hear how your oats turn out! Did you add any fun toppings? Share your creations with me over on Pinterest by tagging @StackSipSnack. Here’s to mornings that are a little sweeter, a lot easier, and full of the good stuff.
FAQs about Almond Joy Overnight Oats (Low Sugar)
How do you make Almond Joy overnight oats low sugar?
To make them low sugar, use unsweetened shredded coconut, unsweetened almond milk, a high-percentage dark chocolate (70% cocoa or more), and a low-calorie sweetener like stevia, erythritol, or monk fruit instead of refined sugars.
What ingredients are typically in low sugar Almond Joy overnight oats?
Key ingredients generally include rolled oats, unsweetened almond milk, unsweetened shredded coconut, chopped almonds, cocoa powder, dark chocolate chips (low sugar variety), and a low-calorie sweetener.
Are Almond Joy overnight oats (low sugar) healthy?
Yes, when made low sugar, they are a nutritious option. They're rich in fiber from oats, healthy fats from almonds and coconut, and antioxidants from dark chocolate, promoting satiety and sustained energy without excessive added sugars.
How long do low sugar Almond Joy overnight oats last in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container, low sugar Almond Joy overnight oats typically remain fresh and safe to eat for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
What's the best sweetener for low sugar Almond Joy overnight oats?
For low sugar versions, popular and effective sweeteners include stevia, erythritol, monk fruit sweetener, or a blend of these. They provide sweetness without adding significant calories or impacting blood sugar.
Can I use instant oats for low sugar Almond Joy overnight oats?
While possible, rolled oats (old-fashioned oats) are highly recommended for overnight oats. Instant oats tend to become too mushy and lose their desirable texture when soaked overnight, whereas rolled oats maintain a pleasant chewiness.
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