Vanilla Overnight Oats are a super easy and tasty breakfast that you can make ahead of time! Just mix oats, milk, yogurt, and a splash of vanilla in a jar and let it chill overnight.
In the morning, you’ll wake up to a creamy treat that’s ready to eat. I like adding fresh fruit or nuts on top for a little crunch. Trust me, breakfast just got a whole lot better! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are the star of the dish! Rolled oats absorb liquid well. You can swap them for quick oats for a creamier texture, but avoid steel-cut oats since they need longer soaking time.
Chia Seeds: They help thicken the oats and add nutrition. If you don’t have chia seeds, feel free to omit them or replace them with flaxseeds for a different texture.
Milk: Any kind of milk works here—dairy, almond, oat, or soy. Personally, I love almond milk for its light flavor. Choose unsweetened if you prefer to control sweetness.
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and protein. If you’re dairy-free, try coconut yogurt or leave it out altogether. Your oats will still be delicious!
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both add sweetness. Feel free to adjust the amount or substitute with agave syrup or a sugar alternative like stevia if you’re watching sugar intake.
How Can I Make My Oats Creamy and Delicious?
To achieve that perfect creamy texture, mixing the ingredients well is key. Make sure the oats are evenly coated. If you like your oats a bit thicker, add an extra spoonful of chia seeds. They absorb liquid and make the oats creamy!
- Combine all base ingredients in a jar or bowl for even mixing.
- Slice banana and layer it against the jar’s side for a pretty presentation.
- Refrigerate overnight (the longer, the better); this allows oats to soften and flavors to blend.
When ready to serve, stir to remix everything. Top with fruits and nuts just before eating to keep them fresh and crunchy. Enjoy a satisfying breakfast! 🌞
Vanilla Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
For Toppings:
- 1/2 banana, sliced (for topping and layering)
- Fresh blueberries (for topping)
- Fresh strawberry (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon sliced almonds (toasted, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 4 hours (or overnight) to chill in the refrigerator. You’ll have plenty of time to get ready for your day while your oats soak and absorb all the delicious flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Base:
Start by gathering a jar or a bowl. In it, combine your rolled oats, chia seeds, milk, Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, and honey or maple syrup. Give everything a good stir until all ingredients are well mixed and evenly distributed.
2. Preparing the Banana:
Take half of the banana and slice it into thin rounds. Place these banana slices along the inner edge of the jar for a beautiful presentation, while also adding some yummy flavor!
3. Chilling the Mixture:
Cover the jar with a lid or some plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill overnight, or for at least 4 hours. This resting period allows the oats and chia seeds to soak up all the liquid and flavors.
4. Final Stir and Serving:
When you’re ready to eat in the morning, take the jar out of the fridge. Stir the oats well to mix any ingredients that may have settled. If you like a creamier texture, you can add a splash more milk at this point.
5. Creative Toppings:
Now, it’s time to make it look and taste even better! Top your oats with the remaining banana slices, a handful of fresh blueberries, a strawberry, and sprinkle some toasted sliced almonds on top for an added crunch.
6. Optional Garnish:
If you want to get extra fancy, feel free to add some edible flowers for a beautiful touch. It’ll make your breakfast feel special!
7. Enjoy!
Your creamy and nutritious vanilla overnight oats are now ready to be enjoyed! Dig in and savor this delightful breakfast treat!
Can I Use Steel-Cut Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
It’s best to stick with rolled oats for this recipe, as they absorb liquid more effectively and create a creamy texture overnight. Steel-cut oats require a longer soaking time and won’t yield the same consistency.
How Long Do These Overnight Oats Last in the Fridge?
Your vanilla overnight oats can last up to 3 days in the fridge. Just make sure to keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Just use a plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk), skip the Greek yogurt, or substitute it with a non-dairy yogurt. Also, opt for maple syrup instead of honey to keep it fully vegan.
What If I Don’t Have Chia Seeds?
No problem! You can omit them if you don’t have chia seeds on hand. Alternatively, you can use ground flaxseeds for a similar texture and health benefits, or simply increase the amount of oats slightly for thickness.
