Save This creamy, nutritious make-ahead breakfast features rolled oats, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, and a touch of sweetness—perfect for busy mornings. It is a satisfying vegetarian dish that takes only 10 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal solution for a healthy start to your day without the morning rush.
Save Overnight oats are essentially a no-cook method of making oatmeal. By letting the oats soak in liquid overnight, they absorb the flavors of the milk, yogurt, and vanilla, resulting in a thick and creamy texture similar to a pudding but much more filling.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup unsweetened milk (dairy or plant-based)
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp chia seeds
- 1–2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- ½ tsp pure vanilla extract
- ½ cup fresh berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries) (optional)
- 1 small banana, sliced (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans) (optional)
- 1 tbsp nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew) (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine Ingredients
- In a medium bowl or large jar, combine oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir well to blend.
- Step 2: Refrigerate
- Cover and refrigerate overnight (at least 8 hours), allowing oats and chia to absorb the liquid.
- Step 3: Adjust Consistency
- In the morning, stir the mixture. If too thick, add a splash of milk to reach desired consistency.
- Step 4: Top and Serve
- Top with fresh berries, banana slices, chopped nuts, or nut butter as desired. Serve chilled.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best results, use a jar with a tight-fitting lid or a mixing bowl covered with plastic wrap. Stirring the mixture thoroughly before refrigeration is key to preventing the chia seeds from clumping together at the bottom.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a dairy-free version, use plant-based yogurt and milk. You can also add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor, or swap the honey or maple syrup for agave or your preferred sweetener. If you have a gluten sensitivity, ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.
Serviervorschläge
Enhance your oats by topping them with fresh seasonal berries, sliced bananas, and a generous sprinkle of chopped almonds or walnuts for crunch. A swirl of almond or peanut butter can add a rich, nutty finish to the dish.
Save With 310 calories and 14g of protein per serving, these overnight oats are a balanced and delicious way to fuel your morning. Whether you enjoy them at home or take them on the go, they are a reliable staple for any busy schedule.
Recipe Help & Answers
- → Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
Steel-cut oats require longer soaking and more liquid to soften properly. Stick with rolled oats for the best texture and consistency in this overnight preparation method.
- → How long do these oats last in the refrigerator?
Store your prepared oats in a sealed container for up to 3 days. The texture continues to thicken over time, so add extra milk before serving if needed.
- → What milk alternatives work best?
Any unsweetened milk works beautifully—almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk all create delicious results. Choose based on your taste preferences and dietary needs.
- → Can I make this without yogurt for a dairy-free version?
Substitute with coconut yogurt or increase the milk by half a cup. The result remains creamy and satisfying while accommodating dairy-free lifestyles.
- → Why do the oats become gelatinous?
Chia seeds absorb liquid and create a pudding-like consistency, while oats soften as they hydrate. This natural thickening creates the signature creamy texture.
- → What toppings pair well beyond the suggestions?
Try dried fruits, shredded coconut, dark chocolate chips, granola, or a drizzle of peanut butter. Seasonal fruits and spices like cinnamon add variety throughout the year.