If you’re looking for a simple, nutritious, and time-saving breakfast, this Easy Overnight Oats recipe is the perfect solution! Made with just four basic ingredients, these oats are creamy, satisfying, and completely customizable to your taste.
Whether you’re a busy professional, a student, or just someone who loves stress-free mornings, this make-ahead oatmeal is a must-try. Plus, you can prepare multiple servings at once and enjoy healthy breakfasts all week long!
Why You’ll Love These Easy Overnight Oats
✅ No Cooking Required – Just mix the ingredients and refrigerate overnight!
✅ Quick & Convenient – Takes only 5 minutes to prepare.
✅ Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients.
✅ Meal Prep Friendly – Make a batch and enjoy breakfast for up to 4 days.
✅ Customizable – Add your favorite toppings, mix-ins, or sweeteners.
What Are Overnight Oats?
Overnight oats are a no-cook method of preparing oatmeal by soaking old-fashioned oats in milk overnight. This allows the oats to absorb the liquid and soften, resulting in a creamy, pudding-like texture by morning.
Unlike stovetop oatmeal, overnight oats require zero cooking—just combine, refrigerate, and enjoy!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This base recipe is super simple, using just four essential ingredients:
- Old-fashioned rolled oats – The best type for a soft yet slightly chewy texture.
- Milk (dairy or non-dairy) – Provides creaminess and moisture. Use almond, oat, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Pure maple syrup – A natural sweetener that adds a touch of sweetness. (Honey works too!)
- Pure vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor with a subtle warm, sweet aroma.
Optional Mix-Ins & Enhancements
- Greek yogurt – Adds creaminess and extra protein.
- Chia seeds or flaxseeds – Boost fiber and omega-3s.
- Nut butters – A spoonful of peanut or almond butter adds richness.
- Cocoa powder – Stir in for a chocolatey twist!
- Ground cinnamon – Enhances the flavor with a warm spice.
How to Make Easy Overnight Oats
Making overnight oats is as simple as 1-2-3!
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
- In a mason jar or bowl, combine:
- ½ cup oats
- ½ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon maple syrup
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Stir well to combine. (If using a jar, you can seal it with a lid and shake to mix!).
Step 2: Refrigerate Overnight
- Cover and place the jar in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours, or overnight.
💡 Tip: The longer they sit, the creamier they become!
Step 3: Stir & Add Toppings
- In the morning, stir the oats to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
- Add your favorite toppings and mix-ins before serving.
Delicious Topping Ideas
These oats are super customizable! Try these delicious toppings:
🍌 Fresh Fruit – Sliced banana, berries, diced apple, or peaches.
🥜 Nuts & Seeds – Almonds, pecans, walnuts, pepitas, or sunflower seeds.
🍫 Sweet Treats – Dark chocolate chips, toasted coconut, or a drizzle of honey.
🥥 Dried Fruit – Raisins, chopped dates, or cranberries for a chewy texture.
💡 Pro Tip: Add crunchy toppings right before eating to keep them fresh!
Ways to Customize Your Overnight Oats
🌰 Peanut Butter Oats – Stir in 1 tablespoon peanut butter for a nutty, protein-packed breakfast.
🍫 Chocolate Oats – Mix in 1 teaspoon cocoa powder for a rich, chocolatey taste.
🥥 Tropical Oats – Add coconut flakes, pineapple, and mango for a tropical twist.
🍏 Apple Pie Oats – Stir in cinnamon and diced apples for a cozy flavor.
💪 High-Protein Oats – Add ½ scoop vanilla protein powder for an extra boost.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
🥄 Refrigerate: Store overnight oats in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 4 days.
🔥 Reheat (Optional): If you prefer warm oats, microwave for 30-60 seconds before serving.
❄️ Freeze: Not recommended, as the oats will become too mushy when thawed.
💡 Pro Tip: Prepare multiple jars at once for easy grab-and-go breakfasts all week!
FAQs About Overnight Oats
Q: Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
A: Yes, but they will have a softer, mushier texture compared to rolled oats.
Q: Can I use steel-cut oats?
A: Steel-cut oats take much longer to absorb liquid. If using, soak for at least 24 hours for a chewier texture.
Q: Can I make overnight oats dairy-free?
A: Yes! Use almond, coconut, oat, or cashew milk instead of dairy milk.
Q: Do overnight oats have to be eaten cold?
A: No! While they’re traditionally eaten cold, you can warm them in the microwave before serving.
Q: How can I make them thicker?
A: Add extra oats, Greek yogurt, or chia seeds for a thicker consistency.
Final Thoughts
These Easy Overnight Oats are the perfect no-fuss breakfast—nutritious, delicious, and totally customizable! Whether you enjoy them plain, with fruit, or packed with extra mix-ins, they make mornings effortless and satisfying.
Try this basic overnight oats recipe today, then get creative with your favorite flavors! 🥣✨
Short Version
Easy Overnight Oats Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ cup old-fashioned oats*
- ½ cup milk dairy or nondairy, whichever you prefer
- ½ teaspoon pure maple syrup
- ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- For serving optional: fresh fruit, sliced or slivered almonds, other nuts or nut butters, etc.
Instructions
- Combine the oats, milk, maple syrup, and vanilla in a mason jar or bowl. Seal with a lid and shake to mix, or stir if using a bowl.
- Refrigerate overnight (or for at least 6 hours, up to 4 days). Stir before serving and add your desired toppings. I love to add fresh berries, sliced banana, and almonds. See the notes below for more topping ideas and recipe variations.
Notes
This recipe makes one serving and can easily be scaled up to make more servings. Overnight oats will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Optional Mix-Ins: You can stir in any of these mix-ins before refrigerating the oats:
- Greek yogurt (add a spoonful or two)
- Peanut butter or almond butter (add 1 tablespoon)
- 1 teaspoon chia seeds, flaxseeds, or hemp seeds
- A sprinkle of ground cinnamon
- ¾ tablespoon cocoa powder
- Fresh berries, sliced banana, chopped apple or peach, fresh cherries, dried fruit
- Almonds, pecans, walnuts, pepitas, or sunflower seeds
- Toasted coconut or chocolate chips
