Overnight Oats Recipe Easy

Name: Overnight Oats Recipe Easy
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 1 cup milk (or plant-based milk); 1/2 cup yogurt (optional); 1 tablespoon chia seeds; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup; Fresh fruits (berries, banana, etc.); Nuts or seeds; Nut butter; Cinnamon or vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

This Overnight Oats Recipe is a simple, nutritious, and delicious way to start your day. Prepare it the night before for a hassle-free breakfast!

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-02T00:52:05.261Z

Overnight oats are a fantastic option for busy mornings. Just mix your ingredients, let them sit overnight, and enjoy a hearty breakfast!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy preparation with no cooking required
Customizable with your favorite toppings and flavors
Healthy and nutritious, perfect for a balanced breakfast

      

What Are Overnight Oats?

Overnight oats are a no-cook method of making oatmeal by soaking rolled oats in liquid overnight. This simple process allows the oats to absorb the liquid, resulting in a creamy, delicious breakfast that is ready to eat by morning. Not only are they quick to prepare, but they also offer a great way to enjoy a nutritious meal without the hassle of cooking.

Typically made with rolled oats, milk, yogurt, and a variety of toppings, overnight oats can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer a fruity breakfast or a nutty delight, the possibilities are endless. Plus, they are packed with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients, making them a great choice to kick-start your day.

Benefits of Overnight Oats

One of the best benefits of overnight oats is their convenience. Preparing them the night before means your breakfast is ready to go in the morning, saving you valuable time on busy days. Just grab your jar and enjoy a nutritious meal on the way to work or school.

Overnight oats are also incredibly versatile. You can mix in various flavors and toppings to keep your breakfast exciting. From seasonal fruits to nut butters and spices, the combinations are endless. This flexibility allows you to cater to different dietary needs and preferences, making it an ideal breakfast option for everyone in the family.

Storing and Meal Prepping Overnight Oats

Storing overnight oats is simple and straightforward. Use airtight containers or mason jars to keep your oats fresh. They can be made in batches, allowing you to prepare several servings at once. This is especially handy for those who want to have healthy breakfasts ready for the week ahead. Just remember to adjust the liquid amount according to the number of servings you prepare.

When meal prepping, consider using a variety of jars with different toppings. This not only keeps things interesting but also makes it easy to grab a different flavor each morning. Keep the toppings separate until you're ready to eat, especially if you're using fruits that may spoil quickly.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your overnight oats:

Base Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats
1 cup milk (or plant-based milk)
1/2 cup yogurt (optional)
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

Toppings (optional)

Fresh fruits (berries, banana, etc.)
Nuts or seeds
Nut butter
Cinnamon or vanilla extract

Feel free to mix and match toppings to suit your taste!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your overnight oats:

Combine Ingredients

In a bowl or jar, combine rolled oats, milk, yogurt, chia seeds, and honey. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are mixed.

Add Toppings

Add your desired toppings or keep them for the morning. Mix again if using immediate toppings.

Refrigerate Overnight

Cover the bowl or jar and place it in the refrigerator overnight (or for at least 4 hours) to allow the oats to absorb the liquid.

Serve and Enjoy

The next morning, give your overnight oats a good stir, add more toppings if desired, and enjoy!

Enjoy your healthy breakfast straight from the fridge!

Perfect Pairings for Overnight Oats

Overnight oats can be paired with various sides to create a more balanced breakfast. Consider serving them with a piece of whole-grain toast topped with avocado or a hard-boiled egg for an added protein boost. These pairings not only enhance the nutritional value but also keep you full and satisfied throughout the morning.

For those who enjoy a sweeter start to their day, consider a side of Greek yogurt or a smoothie. Both options complement the flavors of overnight oats while adding extra nutrients. Experimenting with different pairings can help you discover your ideal breakfast combination.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake when making overnight oats is not using enough liquid. The oats need sufficient time to soak up the liquid; otherwise, they can turn out dry and unappetizing. A good rule of thumb is to use equal parts oats and liquid, adjusting based on personal preference for thickness.

Another mistake is overlooking the power of toppings. While the base mixture is delicious on its own, toppings can elevate your overnight oats to a whole new level. Don’t shy away from experimenting with various fruits, nuts, seeds, and spices to create a breakfast that not only tastes great but also looks appealing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make overnight oats in advance?

Yes! Overnight oats can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days, making them perfect for meal prep.

→ Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?

Steel-cut oats require longer soaking times. If using steel-cut oats, let them soak for at least 12 hours.

→ Are overnight oats gluten-free?

If using certified gluten-free oats, overnight oats can be a gluten-free breakfast option.

→ How can I make my overnight oats sweeter?

You can add more honey, maple syrup, or even mashed bananas to sweeten your oats.