Overnight Oats

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Overnight oats are quick to prep, super versatile, and perfect for busy mornings. You can customize them with your favorite fruits, nuts, seeds, and flavors to match your taste and dietary needs. Since they’re made ahead of time, you’ll save time in the morning without sacrificing nutrition. Whether you enjoy them cold or warmed up, they’re always creamy and satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

rolled oats
milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond, oat, or soy)
chia seeds (optional, for thickness and added nutrients)
Greek yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess and protein)
maple syrup or honey (optional, for sweetness)
vanilla extract (optional)
fresh or frozen fruit (such as berries, banana slices, or chopped apples)
nuts or seeds (optional, for topping)

Directions

1. In a jar or container, combine oats, milk, chia seeds, yogurt, sweetener, and vanilla extract.
2. Stir or shake well to combine.
3. Add your choice of fruits or toppings now, or wait until just before serving.
4. Seal the container and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 4–6 hours.
5. In the morning, stir and enjoy as-is or add more milk to loosen the texture.
6. Top with fresh fruit, nuts, or a drizzle of nut butter if desired.

Servings and timing

Makes 1 serving.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Chilling time: 6–8 hours (overnight)
Total time: 6–8 hours

Variations

• Peanut Butter Banana: Add mashed banana and a spoonful of peanut butter.
• Berry Almond: Mix in strawberries, blueberries, and slivered almonds.
• Apple Cinnamon: Stir in chopped apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
• Chocolate Coconut: Add cocoa powder and top with shredded coconut.
• Pumpkin Spice: Mix in pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice.
• Protein Boost: Stir in a scoop of protein powder or a spoonful of hemp seeds.

Storage/Reheating

Store overnight oats in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Best served cold, but they can also be heated in the microwave for 30–60 seconds if you prefer them warm.
Add a splash of milk before serving to adjust the consistency if needed.

FAQs

Do I need to cook the oats?

Nope! The oats soften overnight as they soak in the liquid, so there’s no need to cook them.

What kind of oats should I use?

Rolled oats are best. Quick oats work but will be softer, and steel-cut oats are not recommended without extra prep.

Can I make multiple servings at once?

Yes, make a batch for the week in individual containers or one large bowl and portion it out.

Can I use water instead of milk?

Yes, but milk adds creaminess and more flavor. Use your favorite milk for the best texture.

Is it okay to add fruit the night before?

Yes, most fruits hold up well overnight. For softer fruits like bananas, it’s best to add them fresh in the morning.

How do I make it thicker?

Add more chia seeds or reduce the amount of liquid slightly.

Can I make overnight oats without yogurt?

Yes, yogurt adds creaminess but is totally optional.

Are overnight oats good for weight loss?

Yes, they’re high in fiber and protein, which help keep you full and satisfied.

Can I freeze overnight oats?

It’s not recommended as the texture may change, but you can freeze the ingredients and assemble fresh each night.

Are overnight oats safe to eat cold?

Absolutely. They’re fully safe to eat cold straight from the fridge.

Conclusion

Overnight oats are a simple, nourishing, and customizable breakfast that fits perfectly into any routine. With just a few minutes of prep, you’ll have a ready-to-eat meal waiting for you each morning. Whether you like them fruity, chocolatey, or spiced, there’s an overnight oats combination for everyone.

Overnight Oats

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Overnight oats are a no-cook, make-ahead breakfast made with rolled oats soaked in milk and optional mix-ins like fruit, yogurt, and sweeteners. They’re creamy, filling, and perfect for busy mornings.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 6–8 hours (chill time)
• Yield: 1 serving
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 1 tbsp chia seeds (optional)
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (optional)
• 1–2 tsp maple syrup or honey (optional)
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
• 1/4–1/2 cup fresh or frozen fruit (e.g., berries, bananas)
• 1 tbsp nuts or seeds (optional, for topping)

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Instructions

1. In a jar or container, combine the oats, milk, chia seeds, yogurt, sweetener, and vanilla extract.
2. Stir or seal and shake to mix everything thoroughly.
3. Add fruit now or wait until serving time.
4. Cover and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4–6 hours.
5. In the morning, stir and adjust consistency with more milk if needed.
6. Top with fruit, nuts, or nut butter if desired and enjoy.

Notes

• Use rolled oats for the best texture; avoid steel-cut oats unless pre-cooked.
• Overnight oats can be prepped up to 4 days ahead for easy breakfasts.
• Add chia seeds for a thicker consistency and extra fiber.
• Sweeten naturally with ripe bananas or fruit instead of syrups if preferred.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 jar (about 1 cup)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 5mg