This one’s like dessert for breakfast—but good for you! If you love the classic Black Forest Cake combo of chocolate and cherries, you’re going to be obsessed with this easy overnight oats version. It’s creamy, chocolatey, a little tart, and sweet in just the right way.
You make it in a jar, pop it in the fridge, and wake up to something amazing. No stove, no oven—just stir, chill, and enjoy.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe reminds me of the first time I tried Black Forest Cake as a kid—it was a celebration cake, but now I get that same flavor any day I want. These oats feel like a treat but are made with good-for-you ingredients. It’s become a regular in my fridge.
- It tastes like dessert but is secretly packed with fiber and protein
- No cooking required—just mix, chill, and go
- Perfect for busy mornings
- Easy to prep ahead for the week
- The chocolate + cherry combo is unbeatable
What You’ll Need
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1/2 cup milk (any kind)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup frozen dark sweet cherries
- 1 tbsp water
- 1 tbsp dark chocolate chips or shavings
- Optional: extra Greek yogurt and cherries for topping
Ingredients Image Prompt
Top-down shot of all ingredients spread out neatly on white marble counters with hints of gold. Display includes a small clear bowl of rolled oats, a teaspoon of chia seeds, a tablespoon of cocoa powder, a small glass of milk, a spoon of maple syrup, a tiny glass bowl of plain Greek yogurt, a measuring spoon with vanilla extract, a small white bowl of frozen dark sweet cherries, a spoonful of dark chocolate chips, and a few extra cherries and yogurt in separate small bowls. A straight 90-degree top-down shot with no tilt, captured directly overhead.
Pro Tips
- Use frozen cherries for juicier compote; they break down faster
- Stir the cocoa powder well—it tends to clump if you don’t
- Let it sit overnight (at least 6 hours) for best texture
- Add toppings right before eating so they stay fresh
- Layer it in a clear jar to make it extra pretty (and fun to eat)
Tools Required
- Small saucepan
- Spoon
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Mason jar or container with lid
- Small knife (for shaving chocolate if needed)
Substitutions and Variations
- Use almond milk, oat milk, or dairy milk—any kind works
- Sub maple syrup with honey or agave
- Swap Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt for a dairy-free version
- Use raspberries or strawberries instead of cherries
- Add a scoop of protein powder for extra protein
Make Ahead Tips
Make 2–3 jars at a time and store them in the fridge for up to 4 days. Don’t add the toppings until the morning you eat it for the best texture.
Servings and Time
Serves: 1
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 6 hours or overnight
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Cherry Compote
Add 1/2 cup frozen dark sweet cherries and 1 tbsp water to a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cherries are soft and syrupy. Use the back of a spoon to lightly mash a few.
Step 2: Mix the Oats Base
In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats, 1 tbsp chia seeds, 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 1/2 cup milk, and 1/4 tsp vanilla extract. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and there are no clumps of cocoa powder remaining.
Step 3: Layer the Oats and Cherries
Spoon half the oats into a jar, add a layer of cherry compote, then spoon the rest of the oats on top. Add another small spoonful of compote on top if you like.
Step 4: Add Yogurt and Chocolate
Top the jar with 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt, then sprinkle with 1 tbsp dark chocolate chips or shaved chocolate. Add a cherry or two if you’re feeling fancy.
Step 5: Chill Overnight
Seal the jar with a lid and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight.
Macros (Estimated per serving)
- Calories: 340
- Protein: 12g
- Carbs: 42g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 18g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Oats and chia seeds absorb liquid overnight, creating a creamy, pudding-like texture. Cocoa adds rich chocolate flavor without extra sugar, and cherries naturally complement chocolate with their tart-sweet balance. Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein, while a bit of chocolate on top gives that dessert vibe.
Common Mistakes
- Not mixing cocoa well: It can clump and make bitter bites. Stir thoroughly.
- Too little liquid: Your oats will be dry and stiff. Stick to the 1:1 oat-to-milk ratio.
- Skipping the chill time: It needs at least 6 hours to soak properly.
- Adding toppings too early: They can get mushy overnight.
What to Serve With
- A hot cup of coffee or espresso
- A boiled egg or two for extra protein
- A green smoothie for some greens on the side
- Almond butter toast if you’re extra hungry
FAQ
Can I make this without yogurt?
Yes! Just skip it or use a plant-based version.
Can I use fresh cherries?
You can, but frozen ones break down better and are easier to mash for compote.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 4 days sealed in an airtight container.
Is it good warm?
Totally! Just heat in the microwave for 30–45 seconds.
Final Thoughts
This Black Forest Cake-inspired overnight oats recipe is cozy, rich, and super simple. It’s the kind of breakfast that makes you excited to get out of bed. Try it, tweak it, and make it your own—and don’t forget to come back and let me know how it turned out!
