I’ve been making overnight oats for years and trying out different amounts and extras. I can tell with confidence that this is the best recipe. It’s very forgiving, so you may make it to your nutritional needs and taste. This recipe is your new best buddy, whether you’re an experienced meal preparer or just starting to eat better.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe for Overnight Oats
- Easy to make: just mix and chill!
- Very flexible: You can add as many toppings as you want.
- Satisfied of nutrients: Lots of fiber and protein to keep you satisfied.
- Saves time: You can eat breakfast before you even get out of bed.
- Cost-Effective: Uses common pantry items to make a dinner that doesn’t cost much.
This dish isn’t only about making things easier; it’s also about making a breakfast that tastes great and fills you up. The oats soak up the liquid, making a beautifully creamy texture, while the chia seeds offer a pudding-like texture and extra omega-3s. We’ll talk about everything you need to know, from the best oats to use to tasty ways to change things up that will keep your taste buds happy!
The Most Important Ingredients for the Best Overnight Oats
The best thing about overnight oats is how easy they are to make. You only need a few basic things, and then you can make anything you want. You will need the following for the foundation recipe:
- Old-Fashioned Oats: About 1/2 cup for each serving. These are very important for getting the right creamy texture. Don’t eat quick oats since they can get overly mushy. Choose certified gluten-free rolled oats if you are sensitive to gluten.
- Milk: One cup of milk per serving. Whole, skim, or 2% dairy milk works great, but almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or coconut milk are also great options.
- Chia Seeds: 1–2 tablespoons of chia seeds per serving. These tiny powerhouses are important for thickening the mixture and contributing healthful fats, fiber, and protein.
- Sweetener (Optional): For sweetener, you can use 1–2 tablespoons of maple syrup, honey, agave nectar, or a sugar substitute. Change the amount of sugar to suit your taste.
- Vanilla Extract (Optional): Add 1/4 teaspoon for more flavor.
- Pinch of Salt (Optional): A pinch of salt brings out the flavors even more.
If you want more inventive breakfast ideas, look at our guide to making Perfect Baked Oatmeal Cups or our Healthy Smoothie Bowl Ideas.
A Simple Guide to Making Overnight Oats
Making overnight oats is as easy as 1-2-3 (and then putting them in the fridge!). To get started, do this:
- Mix the Ingredients: Put your rolled oats, milk, chia seeds, sweetener (if using), vanilla extract (if used), and a bit of salt (if using) in a jar, glass container, or bowl.
- Mix Well: Mix everything together extremely well. Check to check that there are no lumps of oats or chia seeds at the bottom. This makes sure that everyone is hydrated evenly.
- Put it in the fridge: Cover the container tightly with a lid or plastic wrap. Put it in the fridge for at least four hours, but overnight is recommended for the greatest effects. It will get creamier the longer it sits.
- Have fun! Give your overnight oats a thorough toss in the morning. Add a little more milk to the mixture if you think it’s too thick until you have the consistency you want. Now it’s time to put on your favorite toppings!
Ideas for Serving and Tasty Toppings
This is when the real fun starts! The base overnight oats are great on their own, but the toppings really make them special. You can think of them as your gastronomic canvas. These are some of my favorite combinations:
- Berry Blast: Fresh blueberries, raspberries, and a little bit of granola.
- Peanut Butter Banana: A slice of banana, a dab of peanut butter, and some chopped peanuts.
- Tropical Paradise: Made with diced mango, shredded coconut, and a few macadamia nuts.
- Apple Cinnamon Crunch: Made with diced apples, a little cinnamon, and toasted pecans.
- A chocolate lover’s dream: A spoonful of cocoa powder incorporated into the base, topped with chocolate chips and sliced strawberries.
Check out our guide to Layered Yogurt Parfaits or our fast No-Bake Energy Balls for more ideas for healthy and tasty toppings.
How to Make Perfect Overnight Oats Every Time
The recipe is simple, but here are some recommendations to help you make the best overnight oats possible:
- Use the Right Oats: Rolled oats are very important, as we said before. It is possible to use steel-cut oats, but they need to be soaked for 24 hours or cooked beforehand. No instant oats.
- Don’t Forget the Chia Seeds: They are important for both nutrition and texture.
- Adjust Liquid Ratios: Use a little less milk if you want it to be thicker. Add more for a softer texture. The kind of milk you use can also make a difference.
- Sweeten to Taste: Start with less sugar and add more if needed. Fruit is another way to get natural sweetness.
- Meal Prep Like a Pro: Make a bunch of jars at once so you can have breakfast on the go all week.
Common Questions About Overnight Oats
What kind of oats are best for making overnight oats?
Old-fashioned oats, also known as rolled oats, are the best kind of oats to use for overnight oats. They feel excellent and soak up drink efficiently without getting soggy. Don’t eat quick oats since they get too soft and sticky. You can use steel-cut oats, but they need to soak longer or be cooked ahead of time to get soft.
How long do I need to keep overnight oats in the fridge?
Put your overnight oats in the fridge for at least 4 hours, but ideally 8 to 12 hours, for the greatest results and texture. This lets the chia seeds and oats soak up all the water and make a creamy texture. You may make them the night before and eat them on the go.
Can I prepare overnight oats in advance, and how long do they last?
Yes, you can make overnight oats ahead of time. You can keep them in the fridge for 3 to 5 days. Over time, the texture may alter a little and become softer, but they are still absolutely safe to eat and taste great. This makes them a great choice for making your breakfasts for the week ahead.
What are some common things people add to or change with overnight oats?
Overnight oats are great because you can use them in so many ways! Fresh or frozen berries, sliced bananas, diced apples, nuts (almonds, walnuts), seeds (flax, pumpkin), nut butters (peanut, almond), shredded coconut, cinnamon, cocoa powder, protein powder, and Greek yogurt are all popular extras that make it creamier and add protein. You can also try different kinds of milk, like almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk, to get diverse flavors.
Beyond the Basics: Fun Changes
Once you know how to make the fundamental recipe, don’t be scared to try new things. These are some of the most common changes:
- Protein Powerhouse: For an extra protein boost, stir in a scoop of your preferred protein powder, either whey or plant-based. You may need to add a bit more milk to make up for it.
- Keto-Friendly: If you’re on the keto diet, you can replace oats with a blend of hemp hearts, shredded coconut, and chia seeds. Use a low-carb milk like unsweetened almond milk and a sweetener that is okay for keto.
- Savory Overnight Oats: That’s correct! For an unusual savory breakfast, leave off the sugar and add things like nutritional yeast, a touch of garlic powder, shredded cheese, and an egg or avocado on top.
Our post on Creative Avocado Toast Variations has additional healthy breakfast options, or you may learn how to make the Easiest Chia Seed Pudding.
Are you ready to start your day off right?
Don’t wait any longer to change how you eat breakfast! Try this finest overnight oats recipe and see for yourself how easy and tasty it is. It’s the best way to get your day off to a positive start.
We want to see what you’ve made! Post pictures of your overnight oats creations on social media and tag us [Your Social Media Handle]. Please tell us in the comments below what your favorite toppings are or if you have any other great ideas to contribute!
