Overnight Oats Recipe Easy

Highlighted under: Easy Inspiration

This Overnight Oats Recipe Easy is a quick and nutritious breakfast option that you can prepare the night before. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal in the morning.

Tamsyn Calder

Created by

Tamsyn Calder

Last updated on 2026-01-03T00:49:34.437Z

Overnight oats have become a breakfast staple for many due to their convenience and versatility. They're a great way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your diet without sacrificing flavor. This easy recipe will guide you through creating a delicious base that you can customize with your favorite toppings.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy mornings
  • Endless topping options for variety and flavor
  • Healthy and filling, keeps you satisfied until lunch

The Benefits of Overnight Oats

Overnight oats are not only a convenient breakfast option but also a powerhouse of nutrition. Packed with whole grains, fiber, and essential nutrients, they provide a great start to your day. The base of rolled oats is rich in complex carbohydrates, which release energy slowly, helping you feel fuller for longer and stabilizing blood sugar levels.

Additionally, the chia seeds included in this recipe contribute omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and extra fiber, enhancing the health benefits. By preparing your oats the night before, you not only save time in the morning but also allow the flavors to meld together, resulting in a deliciously creamy texture that’s hard to resist.

Customization and Variety

One of the best aspects of overnight oats is their versatility. You can easily customize them to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Want a tropical twist? Add shredded coconut and diced pineapple. Prefer something indulgent? Swirl in some chocolate hazelnut spread. The possibilities are truly endless, making it easy to switch things up and avoid breakfast boredom.

Moreover, you can experiment with different types of milk, such as almond, oat, or soy, to create a base that complements your toppings. Try adding spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique flavor profile, or incorporate protein powder if you’re looking to boost your protein intake.

Meal Prep Made Easy

Overnight oats are an ideal choice for meal prep enthusiasts. You can prepare multiple servings in advance, making it simple to grab a nutritious breakfast on your way out the door. Just portion out individual servings into jars or containers, and you’ll have a week’s worth of meals ready to go.

This not only cuts down on morning prep time but also helps you stick to healthy eating habits. Knowing that you have a delicious and nutritious breakfast waiting for you can make all the difference in your day, allowing you to focus on more important tasks ahead.

Ingredients

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
  • 1/2 cup yogurt (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Topping Suggestions

  • Fresh fruits (bananas, berries, apples)
  • Nuts and seeds (almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds)
  • Nut butter (peanut butter, almond butter)
  • Cinnamon or cocoa powder for extra flavor

Feel free to mix and match ingredients to create your perfect overnight oats!

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl or jar, combine rolled oats, milk, yogurt (if using), chia seeds, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine.

Refrigerate Overnight

Cover the bowl or jar with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 4 hours.

Add Toppings

In the morning, give the oats a good stir and add your favorite toppings such as fresh fruits, nuts, or nut butter.

Enjoy your delicious and nutritious overnight oats!

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Pro Tips

  • For best results, use old-fashioned rolled oats as they absorb liquid well and retain a pleasant texture. You can also adjust the sweetness according to your preference.

Storing Your Overnight Oats

Storing your overnight oats is simple and convenient. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to five days, making them a great option for meal prepping. Just ensure that your jars are airtight to maintain freshness. If you find that the oats have absorbed too much liquid overnight, feel free to add a splash of milk in the morning to achieve your desired consistency.

For best results, layer your toppings separately until you’re ready to eat. This helps maintain the texture of fruits and nuts, ensuring they don’t become soggy. Alternatively, you can mix in your toppings right before you enjoy your oats for a delightful crunch.

Health Tips for Your Oats

To maximize the health benefits of your overnight oats, consider incorporating a variety of toppings that provide essential vitamins and minerals. Fresh fruits like berries or bananas are not only delicious but also add antioxidants and natural sweetness. Nuts provide healthy fats and protein, making your meal even more satisfying.

If you're looking to reduce sugar intake, consider sweetening your oats naturally with mashed banana or a sprinkle of cinnamon instead of honey or syrup. This way, you still achieve a sweet flavor while keeping your breakfast healthy and balanced.

Creative Flavor Combinations

When it comes to flavor combinations for your overnight oats, the sky is the limit! Consider a peanut butter and banana combo for a classic treat, or try a chocolate and raspberry mix for a decadent breakfast. You could also go for a fall-inspired blend with pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and nutmeg for a warm, comforting twist.

Don’t shy away from savory options as well! A dash of salt, a spoonful of Greek yogurt, and a sprinkle of chives can transform your oats into a savory delight. This versatility allows overnight oats to cater to both sweet and savory palates, making them a truly adaptable breakfast choice.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make overnight oats in advance?

Yes, you can prepare several jars at once and store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?

While you can use instant oats, they may become too mushy. Rolled oats are recommended for better texture.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free oats, this recipe can be made gluten-free.

→ What can I substitute for milk?

You can use any non-dairy milk like almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk as a substitute.

Overnight Oats Recipe Easy

This Overnight Oats Recipe Easy is a quick and nutritious breakfast option that you can prepare the night before. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal in the morning.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration0 minutes
Overall Time10 minutes

Created by: Tamsyn Calder

Recipe Type: Easy Inspiration

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 2 servings

What You'll Need

Base Ingredients

  1. 1 cup rolled oats
  2. 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
  3. 1/2 cup yogurt (optional)
  4. 1 tablespoon chia seeds
  5. 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  6. 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  7. Pinch of salt

Topping Suggestions

  1. Fresh fruits (bananas, berries, apples)
  2. Nuts and seeds (almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds)
  3. Nut butter (peanut butter, almond butter)
  4. Cinnamon or cocoa powder for extra flavor

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a mixing bowl or jar, combine rolled oats, milk, yogurt (if using), chia seeds, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine.

Step 02

Cover the bowl or jar with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 4 hours.

Step 03

In the morning, give the oats a good stir and add your favorite toppings such as fresh fruits, nuts, or nut butter.

Extra Tips

  1. For best results, use old-fashioned rolled oats as they absorb liquid well and retain a pleasant texture. You can also adjust the sweetness according to your preference.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 300 kcal
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Dietary Fiber: 8g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 10g