Overnight Oats Recipe
Easy Overnight Oats are the perfect make-ahead breakfast for busy mornings when you crave something healthy, filling, and endlessly customizable. Wake up to a jar of deliciousness ready to grab and go.
These oats offer countless flavor possibilities, from fruity to nutty. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, they transform humble pantry staples into a nourishing breakfast that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
Ingredients for Easy Overnight Oats
- Rolled oats – The hearty, fiber-rich base that gives overnight oats their creamy texture.
- Milk of choice – Adds moisture and creaminess, perfectly softening the oats overnight.
- Greek yogurt – Boosts protein and makes the oats extra creamy and satisfying.
- Chia seeds – Help thicken the oats while adding healthy omega-3s and fiber.
- Sweetener (honey or maple syrup) – Brings natural sweetness to balance the flavors.
- Vanilla extract – Infuses a subtle warmth that enhances any mix-ins or toppings.
Quick Steps to Make Easy Overnight Oats
To whip up Easy Overnight Oats, start by combining rolled oats and milk in a mason jar or container. Stir in Greek yogurt, chia seeds, sweetener, and a splash of vanilla extract until everything is well mixed.
Seal the jar and let it rest in the fridge overnight, allowing the oats and chia seeds to soak up the liquid and flavors. In the morning, add your favorite toppings like fresh fruit, nut butter, or crunchy nuts.
Give the oats a stir and, if needed, thin with extra milk to reach your desired consistency. Enjoy directly from the jar for a no-fuss, nutritious breakfast.
Tips to Master Your Overnight Oats
Experiment with different milk options such as almond, oat, or coconut milk to change the flavor profile. For a vegan version, skip the Greek yogurt or use a plant-based alternative.
Add your toppings the night before for convenience or keep them fresh by adding them right before eating. For a thicker texture, increase the chia seeds slightly or reduce the milk.
Customize with fun flavors like Peanut Butter & Jelly, Apple Pie, Banana Nutella, Almond Joy, or Blueberry Lemon Muffin. Each variation brings a unique twist while sticking to the same simple base recipe.
How to Keep Your Overnight Oats Fresh
Store your overnight oats in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to five days. This makes it easy to prep multiple jars at once for stress-free breakfasts all week long.
If the oats become too thick after sitting, simply stir in a splash of milk or water to loosen them up. For best taste and texture, add fresh toppings like fruit or nuts right before serving.
Overnight Oats Recipe
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- ½ cup milk of choice
- ½ cup rolled oats
Suggested Add-Ins
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon sweetener honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- ¼ cup non-fat Greek yogurt
Peanut Butter & Jelly Variation
- 2 tablespoons crushed peanuts
- ¼ cup diced strawberries
- 1 tablespoon creamy peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon strawberry jam
Apple Pie Variation
- 1 tablespoon chopped pecans
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ cup diced apples
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup
Banana Nutella Variation
- ½ banana sliced
- 1 tablespoon Nutella
- 1 tablespoon chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon crushed hazelnuts
Almond Joy Variation
- 1 tablespoon chopped almonds
- ¼ cup shredded coconut
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon chocolate chips
Blueberry Lemon Muffin Variation
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ¼ cup blueberries
- 2 teaspoons honey
Maple Brown Sugar Variation
- Pinch of salt
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions
- Combine the oats, milk, and desired add-ins in a spacious glass container and stir thoroughly until the mixture is fully blended. Cover securely with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours, preferably overnight, to allow the oats to soak. Incorporate toppings either before chilling or immediately prior to serving. When ready to eat, remove the cover and enjoy directly from the container, thinning with additional milk or water if a looser consistency is preferred.
