Hey, everyone! 👋 If you’re like me, mornings can be a chaotic rush. Between hitting snooze one too many times and trying to get out the door, a healthy breakfast often falls by the wayside. That’s where overnight oats have become my absolute savior!
This isn’t just some boring breakfast mush, folks. Look at this beautiful bowl (or jar!) I created! Creamy, satisfying, and packed with fresh fruit, this is what breakfast goals look like. I started experimenting with overnight oats because I was craving something nutritious that required minimal effort in the morning. What began as a trial-and-error process has turned into a staple in my weekly meal prep.
The best part about overnight oats is how customizable they are! You can really tailor them to whatever you have on hand, and whatever flavors your taste buds are craving. Let me break down my go-to recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats (not instant)
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt (optional, but adds creaminess!)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (for extra thickness and nutrients)
- 1 teaspoon sweetener (maple syrup, honey, or agave)
- Pinch of salt
- Toppings (Use whatever you love!)
- Fresh berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries)
- Sliced kiwi
- Sliced banana
- Nuts or granola for crunch
- A drizzle of extra sweetener
Instructions:
- Combine:Â In a jar or airtight container, add the rolled oats, milk, yogurt (if using), chia seeds, sweetener, and salt.
- Stir:Â Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Refrigerate:Â Seal the container tightly and place it in the refrigerator overnight, or for at least 2 hours.
- Assemble:Â In the morning, give the mixture a quick stir. Add your favorite toppings right before serving.
Notes:
- Liquid Ratios:Â Adjust the liquid to your preference. Some people prefer a thicker consistency (less liquid), others like it more pourable (more liquid).
- Sweetener:Â Adjust the amount of sweetener to your liking. The sweetness of the fruit you use will also change your needs.
- Make Ahead:Â You can prepare multiple jars at once and keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days for easy breakfasts.
- Get Creative:Â Don’t be afraid to experiment with other mix-ins like protein powder, nut butter, cocoa powder, or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Jar vs Bowl Serve in your favorite bowl for eating right away. Or in a jar for portability to eat on the go.
FAQs:
- Can I use instant oats? Rolled oats work best for overnight oats. Instant oats can become too mushy.
- Do I have to use chia seeds? No, but they help create a thick and pudding-like consistency. If you don’t have any, you can omit them, but the texture will be different.
- Can I heat them up? Yes, you can gently heat overnight oats on the stove or in the microwave if you prefer a warm breakfast.
- Do I have to use yogurt? No, you can omit the yogurt if you’re dairy-free or prefer a lighter consistency. The yogurt will give it a richer creaminess.
- Are overnight oats good for me? Absolutely! They’re packed with fiber, whole grains, and protein, making them a satisfying and nutritious breakfast.
My journey with overnight oats has been an adventure in flavor exploration. I hope you will try the recipe and join me! Let me know in the comments what your favorite toppings and mix-ins are! Happy prepping! ✨