Overnight oats are one of my favorite go-to breakfasts when I’m looking for something quick, healthy, and filling. This recipe is simple yet nutritious, perfect for those busy mornings when I want to start my day off right. All I need to do is mix everything the night before, refrigerate it overnight, and in the morning, I wake up to a creamy, delicious breakfast. It’s the perfect solution for a busy lifestyle!
Ingredients
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
1/4 cup yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Fresh fruit or toppings of choice (e.g., berries, nuts, nut butter)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
In a mason jar or bowl, combine the rolled oats, milk, yogurt (if using), chia seeds, maple syrup (if using), vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon.
Stir everything together until well combined.
Cover and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 4 hours.
In the morning, give the oats a good stir and add your desired toppings, such as fresh fruit, nuts, or nut butter.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 1 serving
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes (plus overnight refrigeration)
Variations
Dairy-Free: Use almond milk, coconut milk, or any other dairy-free milk in place of regular milk. You can also use dairy-free yogurt if you prefer.
Sweeteners: Swap maple syrup for honey or agave nectar, depending on your preference. If you like a sugar-free version, try using a stevia-based sweetener.
Fruit: Experiment with different fruits! I love adding berries like strawberries, blueberries, or even sliced bananas.
Nut Butter: If I’m craving extra creaminess, I’ll add a spoonful of peanut butter or almond butter to the oats before refrigerating them.
Spices: I sometimes add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
Overnight oats can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it perfect for meal prep! I often make a few jars at once to have breakfast ready for the next couple of mornings. If I want to eat it warm, I simply microwave the oats for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, and then stir in my toppings.
FAQs
Can I make overnight oats ahead of time for multiple days?
Yes, absolutely! I love prepping multiple jars of overnight oats at once for a quick breakfast throughout the week. They last for about 3 days in the fridge.
Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
Steel-cut oats will require more liquid and a longer soaking time than rolled oats. If I prefer to use steel-cut oats, I’d recommend soaking them overnight, but they might be a bit chewier in texture.
Can I use flavored yogurt?
Definitely! Flavored yogurt can add extra sweetness and flavor to the oats. I prefer using plain yogurt for a less sweet option, but if I want more flavor, I’ll opt for a vanilla or fruit-flavored yogurt.
How do I make overnight oats vegan?
It’s super easy to make overnight oats vegan! Just swap the dairy milk for a plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk, and skip the yogurt or use a dairy-free alternative.
Can I freeze overnight oats?
Yes, you can freeze overnight oats! I sometimes make a big batch and freeze individual servings in jars. Just let them thaw in the fridge overnight before eating.
Conclusion
This easy overnight oats recipe has become one of my go-to breakfasts, and I can’t get enough of it. It’s quick to make, customizable, and filled with healthy ingredients that keep me energized throughout the morning. Whether I need a grab-and-go meal or just want something nutritious to start my day, this recipe always does the trick.
Recipe:
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Favorite Easy Overnight Oats Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes (plus overnight refrigeration)
- Yield: 1 serving
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This easy overnight oats recipe is a quick, healthy, and customizable breakfast option that’s perfect for busy mornings. Simply mix the ingredients the night before, refrigerate, and enjoy a creamy and filling meal the next morning.
Ingredients
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
1/4 cup yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Fresh fruit or toppings of choice (e.g., berries, nuts, nut butter)
Instructions
- In a mason jar or bowl, combine the rolled oats, milk, yogurt (if using), chia seeds, maple syrup (if using), vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon.
- Stir everything together until well combined.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 4 hours.
- In the morning, give the oats a good stir and add your desired toppings, such as fresh fruit, nuts, or nut butter.
Notes
For a dairy-free option, use almond milk, coconut milk, or other dairy-free milk alternatives.
Sweeteners can be swapped based on your preference, such as using honey or agave nectar.
Try adding different fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or bananas.
For extra creaminess, add a spoonful of peanut butter or almond butter.
Overnight oats can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
If you want to reheat, simply microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute and stir in toppings.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
