The sound of my alarm clock is much less annoying when I know breakfast is already made. I love grabbing a jar from the fridge and digging right in without lifting a finger to cook.
This creamy Overnight Oats recipe has become my absolute favorite way to simplify busy weekday mornings. You can easily batch prep these jars on Sunday night to ensure a healthy start to your entire week.
Why You Will Love This Breakfast
What Makes This Overnight Oats Recipe a Keeper
You will appreciate how the chia seeds thicken the mixture into a rich pudding texture overnight. I find that this method creates a much creamier result than traditional cooked oatmeal.
The versatility of this Overnight Oats recipe means you can customize it differently for every family member. I often set out a topping bar so everyone can add their favorite fruits and nuts.
It is incredibly satisfying to see a row of prepared jars sitting in the refrigerator ready to go. This simple habit saves me so much time and energy when I am rushing out the door.
If you enjoy this easy start to the day, you should definitely bake my Savory Chocolate Cheesecake Brownies for a treat later on. I also highly recommend making a batch of Hearty Andes Mint Cookies to keep the cookie jar full.
The Simple Ingredients for Overnight Oats
Here are the pantry staples you will need to gather for this recipe:
- Old-Fashioned Oats: These provide the best chewy texture and hold up well to soaking without turning into mush.
- Chia Seeds: I use these to thicken the mixture and add a boost of fiber and healthy fats.
- Milk of Choice: You can use almond milk, oat milk, or dairy milk depending on your dietary preference.
- Nut Butter: Almond butter or peanut butter adds richness, creaminess, and a savory depth to the flavor profile.
- Sweetener: A touch of maple syrup or honey balances the flavors perfectly.
- Fresh Fruit: Blueberries, raspberries, or sliced strawberries add freshness and natural sweetness to the jar.
My Method for Perfect Overnight Oats
Let’s get these jars prepped for the week ahead:
- Grab a clean mason jar or a bowl with a tight-fitting lid to begin your preparation. I like to combine the old-fashioned oats, chia seeds, and your chosen nut butter directly in the container first. Adding the dry ingredients and the sticky nut butter at the bottom helps them mix better once the liquid is added.
- Pour in a splash of your milk and use a spoon to vigorously stir the nut butter into the oats until it loosens up. Once the nut butter is incorporated, pour in the remaining milk and stir until everything is well combined and no dry pockets of oats remain at the bottom of the jar.
- If you are using sturdy fruit like frozen berries, you can add them on top of the mixture now. Seal the jar tightly with the lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least four hours, though I find leaving it overnight yields the best creamy texture. When you are ready to eat, give it a quick stir and add any additional sweeteners or fresh toppings you desire.
Tips to Perfect Your Overnight Oats
I always recommend using rolled oats rather than quick oats for the best possible texture. Quick oats tend to break down too much and can result in a mushy consistency that lacks that satisfying chew.
If you prefer your Overnight Oats to be a bit looser, simply stir in an extra splash of milk right before eating. I find that the chia seeds absorb a lot of liquid, so a morning top-up often helps.
You can freeze these jars if you want to prep for more than five days at a time. I suggest thawing a jar in the refrigerator the night before you plan to eat it for the best results.
Best Ways to Enjoy Overnight Oats
You can eat these straight from the jar while they are still cold for a refreshing breakfast. I find this temperature perfect for warm summer mornings when I want something cooling.
I sometimes warm my Overnight Oats in the microwave for thirty seconds if I am craving something cozy. Top with a few extra nuts or seeds for a nice crunch that contrasts with the creamy oats.
I love seeing what you make, so come follow me on Pinterest to keep up with my latest recipes!
Print
Creamy Overnight Oats
- Total Time: 7 min
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple, healthy, and customizable make-ahead breakfast featuring rolled oats, chia seeds, and fruit.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1/2 cup fruit (fresh berries or sliced strawberries)
- 1 tablespoon almond butter or peanut butter
- 1/3 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond milk or milk of choice
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Select a jar or small bowl with a lid and add the oats, chia seeds, cinnamon (if using), and nut butter into the container.
- Pour in a small amount of the milk and stir well to loosen the nut butter, then pour in the remaining milk and mix until fully combined.
- Add your fruit on top of the oat mixture; if using fruit that browns like apples, wait to add these until just before serving.
- Secure the lid on the container and place it in the refrigerator to soak for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
- When ready to eat, remove from the fridge, add sweetener if desired, and enjoy chilled or warmed slightly in the microwave.
Notes
For a thinner consistency, add an extra splash of milk just before serving. Use certified gluten-free oats if needed.
- Prep Time: 7 min
- Chilling Time: 4 hr
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 jar
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: overnight oats recipe, healthy breakfast meal prep, gluten free oats, easy morning meal