A cozy, chocolatey make-ahead breakfast with banana, cinnamon, and crunchy walnuts. The midnight name gives it a subtle Halloween twist, but you’ll want to make it all fall long.

Prep: 10 minutes | Chill: At least 4 hours or overnight | Yield: 2 servings

Ingredients

• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or unsweetened pea milk)
• 1 ripe banana, mashed
• 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 1–2 tsp maple syrup, optional
• 2 tbsp chopped walnuts
• Banana slices and a few mini dark chocolate chips for topping, optional

Instructions

1. In a bowl or two jars, stir together oats, almond milk, mashed banana, cocoa powder, chia seeds, cinnamon, and vanilla.
2. Taste and add a little maple syrup only if you want more sweetness.
3. Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, until thick and creamy.
4. Stir in the morning; add a splash of milk if needed. Divide into two servings and top with walnuts, banana slices, and a few optional mini chocolate chips.

A little heart-health note ♡

Oats and chia seeds contribute fiber, and walnuts add unsaturated fats. The banana brings natural sweetness. Keep covered in the refrigerator and enjoy within 2 days.

Happy Heart Kitchen tip: Make it your own! These are home-style recipe ideas; adjust sweetness and toppings to taste.