Overnight oats are a simple, nutritious make-ahead breakfast that takes just 5 minutes to prep and can be customized with endless mix-ins and toppings — ideas included below!
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Mornings used to feel like a race against time…Cold Brew spilling everywhere, toast burning, and me trying to figure out how to function before 9 a.m. Then I discovered overnight oats, and suddenly breakfast became one less thing to stress about. With just 5 minutes of prep, I can mix up creamy, flavor-packed oats and let the fridge do all the work while I tackle emails, shower, or just take a deep breath.
Whether you love classic banana and Peanut Butter, a very-berry version, cozy pumpkin spice, Carrot Cake Overnight Oats, or something else, the combinations are endless. Every bite will feel like a little treat, and the best part? You didn’t even have to wake up early.
Ingredients
Technically you can make overnight oats with just milk and oats, but my recipe adds a few more ingredients to make the best overnight oats base to enjoy as-is or with your favorite mix-ins or toppings! Here’s what you need:
- Milk of choice – you can use any milk you’d like, from whole to nonfat to dairy-free alternatives.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats – stay away from quick oats or steel-cut oats for the best, creamy texture. If you do like a chewier texture, try my Overnight Steel Cut Oats!
- Chia seeds (optional) – chia seeds are not only a nutrient powerhouse (fiber, protein, omega-3s, etc.) but they create a creamier, more pudding-like texture.
- Honey or maple syrup (optional) – sweeten things up naturall! A little goes a long way.
- Vanilla extract (optional) – vanilla adds the perfect touch of warm flavor and depth.
- Salt (optional) – salt enhances flavor!
How to Make Overnight Oats
Overnight oats are SO easy to make. Here are the 3 simple steps:
Step 1: Mix all ingredients in a container with lid.
Step 2: Cover and chill overnight.
Step 3: Stir, add toppings, and enjoy!
Add-Ins and Topping Ideas
Here’s my go-to list of popular overnight oats flavors, toppings, and add-ins to keep your breakfasts interesting and delicious!
- Spices and powders: cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, cocoa powder, espresso, matcha, or protein powder
- Nuts and nut butters: peanut, almond, cashew, walnut, etc.
- Greek yogurt: any flavor
- Fruit: banana, berries, apples, oranges, etc.
- Others: Homemade Granola, chocolate chips, cocao nibs, coconut, jam, and lemon zest
- Flavor variations: PB&J (peanut butter + jam), Strawberries + Cream (berries + Greek yogurt), Chocolate Banana (cocoa + banana + chocolate chips), Tropical (mango + pineapple + coconut), Blueberry Lemon (blueberries + lemon zest), Pumpkin Spice Latte (pumpkin + espresso powder + spice blend), Carrot Cake Overnight Oats, or Apple Pie Steel Cut Overnight Oats
My Pro Tip
Tips for Making the Best Overnight Oats
- Use old-fashioned rolled oats, not steel-cut (too hard) or instant (too mushy).
- The best ratio for overnight oats: ½ cup oats : ⅔ cup liquid.
- Add chia seeds for creaminess and a pudding-like texture.
- Chill at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
- If it’s too thick in the morning, loosen with a splash of milk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Store overnight oats in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator and enjoy within 2-3 days.
Yes, warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed!
Absolutely! Mix a big batch and portion it out as needed, or scoop directly from one container.
Chill at least 6 hours for the best texture and flavor.
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If you’ve tried this Overnight Oats Recipe or any other recipe on my website, please let me know in the comments below. I love hearing from you. Please consider leaving a 🌟 star rating while you are here!
Easy Overnight Oats Recipe
Equipment
- 8-ounce or larger jar with lid (or other airtight container)
Ingredients
- ⅔ cup milk of choice
- ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon chia seeds, optional but recommended for creaminess/nutrition
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a jar with a lid, or other airtight container.
- Cover and chill in the fridge for 6-8 hours or overnight.
- Stir before serving (with mix-ins if desired), add any toppings, and enjoy chilled or warmed slightly in the microwave!
Video
Notes
- You can make overnight oats with just milk and oats, but the above recipe provides the best base to enjoy as-is, or with toppings or mix-ins.
- Mix-in and topping ideas are included in the blog post above!
- Add 1-2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt if desired for extra protein.
- Enjoy within 2-3 days!
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
My teens and I loved these overnight oats! They will become a staple in our house.
Aw I’m glad your family loves them! Enjoy!
Grace
These are nothing like the commercial versions Iโve come to loathe.
Delicious!!!!!
That’s what I like to hear!
Best,
Grace
I make these every week! Great recipe, thank you!
Me too! Cheers!
Grace