Overnight Oats Recipe

Learn how to make the best homemade overnight oats with this easy, no-bake recipe. Simply combine wholesome ingredients before bed for a nutritious, ready-to-eat breakfast by morning. Customize with your favorite mix-ins for a perfect make-ahead meal that's both convenient and delicious.

Difficulty:

Beginner

Prep Time:

10 mins

Cook Time:

0 mins

Serves:

1 jar

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"> <li class="ingredients-single-item">60g rolled oats (not instant or steel-cut)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">180ml milk of choice (dairy or plant-based)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">60g Greek yogurt</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tbsp chia seeds</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tbsp honey or maple syrup</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">¼ tsp vanilla extract</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">Pinch of salt</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">For toppings: fresh berries, sliced banana, chopped nuts, or seeds</li> </ul>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size: 1 serving

🔥 Calories: 350 calories

🥑 Fat: 9 g

🧈 Saturated Fat: 3 g

🍞 Carbohydrates: 54 g

🍭 Sugar: 18 g

🍗 Protein: 15 g

🫀 Cholesterol: 15 mg

🧂 Sodium: 120 mg

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"> <li class="equipment-single-item">350ml mason jar or container with lid</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Measuring cups and spoons</li> </ul>

Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4> Add the rolled oats to your jar or container. The type of oats matters significantly here - rolled oats (sometimes called old-fashioned oats) have the perfect texture for overnight soaking, while instant oats may become too mushy and steel-cut too firm. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4> Pour in your milk of choice. The liquid-to-oat ratio is crucial for achieving that perfect creamy consistency without being too wet or too dry. The oats will absorb much of this liquid overnight. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4> Add the Greek yogurt, which provides both protein and a wonderful creaminess. The natural cultures in yogurt also work overnight to slightly soften the oat texture while adding a subtle tanginess. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4> Sprinkle in the chia seeds. These tiny powerhouses will absorb liquid and create a pudding-like gel that binds everything together while adding omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4> Add your sweetener of choice (honey or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and a small pinch of salt. The salt might seem unusual, but it's essential for enhancing all the flavors - even in sweet dishes. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4> Stir all ingredients thoroughly until well combined, making sure to reach the bottom of the jar to incorporate all the dry oats. The mixture should look quite liquid at this point - that's perfectly normal. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4> Seal your container with its lid and place in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours, but ideally overnight (8-12 hours). This resting period allows the oats and chia seeds to fully absorb the liquid and soften to the perfect texture. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4> In the morning, remove from the refrigerator and give your oats a good stir. They should have thickened significantly into a creamy, pudding-like consistency. If they seem too thick, add a splash more milk and stir until you reach your desired texture. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 9</h4> Top with your favorite fruits, nuts, or seeds just before eating. Adding these fresh toppings at the last minute provides a delightful textural contrast to the soft oats. Enjoy straight from the jar for a convenient breakfast on busy mornings! </li> </ol>

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about this delicious recipe right here.

What ingredients are used in Overnight Oats Recipe?

Basic overnight oats require rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, a sweetener like honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Popular toppings include fresh berries, sliced banana, nuts and seeds. All ingredients combine overnight for a creamy breakfast.

How to cook Overnight Oats Recipe at home?

Learn how to cook Overnight Oats Recipe by combining rolled oats, milk, yogurt, chia seeds, sweetener, vanilla and salt in a jar. No actual cooking needed - simply stir all ingredients thoroughly, seal the container, and refrigerate overnight (6-12 hours). In the morning, give it a stir, add your toppings, and enjoy this no-cook breakfast straight from the jar.

Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats for overnight oats?

Steel-cut oats aren't ideal for traditional overnight oats as they remain quite firm even after soaking. If you prefer them, try a modified recipe with longer soaking time (24+ hours) or partially cooking them first. For the best creamy texture in the standard overnight timeframe, rolled oats are recommended.

How long do overnight oats last in the fridge?

Properly stored overnight oats will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best results, store without toppings and add fresh fruit, nuts or seeds just before eating. The texture may thicken over time - simply add a splash of milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.

Are overnight oats healthy for weight loss?

Overnight oats can support weight loss as they're high in fibre and protein, keeping you fuller longer. The basic recipe provides balanced nutrition at around 350 calories per serving. Control added sugars by adjusting sweeteners and toppings. The make-ahead nature helps prevent impulsive, less healthy breakfast choices.

Want to try something else in ...