Overnight oats are the easiest way to enjoy a hearty breakfast without the morning scramble. Packed with nutrients, this recipe transforms a few simple ingredients into a ready-to-eat meal that’s perfect for busy mornings. Customize it with your favorite mix-ins to keep things interesting.
- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (chill time only)
- Total Time: 2 hours + chill time
- Servings: 1-2 servings
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick prep makes it ideal for meal prep enthusiasts.
- Highly customizable with various toppings and mix-ins.
- No cooking required, just mix and chill.
- Nutrient-dense ingredients provide a great start to your day.
Ingredients
- ½ cup rolled oats: The base of the dish, providing fiber and substance.
- ½ cup milk (of choice): Adds creaminess; use almond or soy for a non-dairy option.
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt (non-fat): Adds protein and tanginess.
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds: Thickens the mix and adds omega-3 fatty acids.
- 1 tablespoon sweetener (honey or maple syrup): Provides sweetness; adjust to taste.
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with a warm note.
- 1 tablespoon strawberry jam: Optional for added fruity sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon creamy peanut butter: Provides richness and protein.
- ¼ cup strawberries (diced): Fresh fruit that adds natural sweetness and color.
- 2 tablespoons peanuts (crushed): Adds crunch and a nutty flavor.
- ¼ cup apples (diced): Adds crispness and natural sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon pecans (chopped): Adds a buttery crunch.
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup: Another natural sweetener; adjust to taste.
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
- ½ banana (sliced): Adds natural sweetness and a creamy texture.
- 1 tablespoon Nutella: Optional for a chocolatey, nutty twist.
- 1 tablespoon hazelnuts (crushed): Complement the Nutella’s flavor.
- 1 tablespoon chocolate chips: Optional for a touch of indulgence.
- ¼ cup shredded coconut: Adds tropical flavor and texture.
- 1 tablespoon almonds (chopped): Adds crunch and nuttiness.
- 1 tablespoon chocolate chips: Optional for a rich contrast.
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup: For additional sweetness as needed.
- ¼ cup blueberries: Bursts of juicy flavor and antioxidants.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Brightens and intensifies the other flavors.
- 2 teaspoons honey: Natural sweetness that balances the oats.
- Pinch salt: Enhances flavor complexity.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Optional for those who prefer added sweetness.
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup: Another layer of sweet flavor as adjusted.
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon: Another flavorful layer for added warmth.
- Pinch salt: Further enhances and balances sweetness.
How to Make It
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a large glass container, combine the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, sweetener of your choice, and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly to ensure the oats and chia seeds are fully saturated and well integrated, as this will help them absorb the liquids evenly and develop a creamy texture.
Step 2: Add Toppings
Next, mix in any desired toppings such as strawberry jam, peanut butter, or Nutella at this stage to infuse the base with their distinctive flavors. Stir in fruits, nuts, and spices like strawberries, peanuts, apples, pecans, banana slices, chocolate chips, and cinnamon for a textural and flavorful variety.
Step 3: Refrigerate
Cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap, sealing it tightly to preserve freshness and prevent outside odors from infusing the mix. Place in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or leave it overnight, allowing the oats to fully absorb the liquids, resulting in a thick, pudding-like consistency.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Uncover the oats and give them a gentle stir. Enjoy directly from the container, or transfer to a bowl. If the mixture appears too thick for your preference, thin it with a splash of additional milk or water until the desired consistency is achieved.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
Steel-cut oats require a longer soaking time and will yield a chewier texture. If using them, soak overnight to ensure they soften adequately. Adjust liquid ratios if necessary.
What if I’m out of Greek yogurt?
Greek yogurt can be substituted with a regular yogurt for a similar tanginess, or with a plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free version. You might need to adjust the consistency with less liquid.
How can I make it sweeter?
If the oats aren’t sweet enough for your taste, you can add more sweetener, such as an additional drizzle of honey, maple syrup, or a sprinkle of brown sugar, and mix well before serving.
