This overnight oats recipe makes mornings simple. You stir, chill, and wake up to creamy oats infused with vanilla and maple. No stove. No stress. Just a cold, satisfying breakfast ready when you are.
Hi, I’m Laura Jennings, a 38-year-old home cook from Asheville, North Carolina. I fell in love with cooking beside my grandmother, standing on a stool and covered in flour. Our meals were simple but full of heart. After years in office jobs, I returned to the kitchen, starting a small supper club that grew into a blog and weekend cooking classes. I believe cooking brings joy, not pressure. This overnight oats recipe reflects that spirit—easy, comforting, and made with everyday ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Takes 5 minutes to prep
- No cooking required
- Creamy and customizable
- Perfect for meal prep
- Budget-friendly ingredients
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours or overnight
- Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
Ingredients
- ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- ½ cup milk (dairy or almond milk)
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Toppings:
Fresh berries, sliced banana, peanut butter, nuts, coconut flakes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Add oats, chia seeds, and salt to a jar.
- Pour in milk, yogurt, maple syrup, and vanilla.
- Stir well to combine.
- Seal the jar and refrigerate at least 4 hours.
- Stir again before serving. Add toppings and enjoy this overnight oats recipe cold.
Serving Suggestions
Top with strawberries and almonds for crunch. Add peanut butter and banana for extra protein. Pair with hot coffee or green tea for a balanced breakfast.
Quick Tips or Variations
- Use mashed banana instead of maple syrup for natural sweetness.
- Add cocoa powder for a chocolate version.
- Swap yogurt for dairy-free coconut yogurt.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long do overnight oats last?
They stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days in a sealed container.
2. Can you use quick oats?
Yes, but the texture becomes softer. Rolled oats give the best consistency.
3. Do overnight oats need yogurt?
No. Yogurt adds creaminess, but you can skip it and add extra milk.
4. Can you heat overnight oats?
Yes. Warm them in the microwave for 30–60 seconds if you prefer them hot.
Conclusion
This overnight oats recipe keeps breakfast simple and satisfying. Stir it tonight, wake up to creamy goodness, and start your day right.
Print
Overnight Oats Recipe – Easy, Healthy Make-Ahead Breakfast
- Total Time: 245 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This overnight oats recipe makes a creamy, healthy make-ahead breakfast with just 5 minutes of prep. Perfect for busy mornings and easy meal prep.
Ingredients
1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
1/2 cup milk (dairy or almond milk)
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Optional toppings: fresh berries, banana slices, peanut butter, nuts, coconut flakes
Instructions
1. Add oats, chia seeds, and salt to a jar.
2. Pour in milk, yogurt, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
3. Stir well until fully combined.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 240 minutes.
5. Stir again before serving and add desired toppings.
Notes
Store in an airtight jar for up to 4 days.
Use rolled oats for best texture.
Heat in the microwave for 30–60 seconds if preferred warm.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 jar
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
