How To Make Easy Overnight Oats

Ingredients For Overnight Oats

This basic recipe is as simple as can be and uses just a handful of ingredients:

• Whole rolled oats: These are flat, oval-shaped oats that soak up water nicely. So don’t worry if they take a slightly jelly-like texture — that means they’re getting just right. Whole rolled oats preserve their shape while soaking, which is why the dish turns out a bit chewy and a bit soft at the same time.
• Chia seeds: These are small seeds, either black or white, that expand when soaked. They are a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. These seeds develop a gel-like texture making the oats thick and creamy. In addition to oats, you can use them in other nutritious and healthy chia seed recipes.
• Milk: A liquid that will soak the oats. Options include:
  • Almond milk: Lightweight and flavored with nuts
  • Dairy milk: A smooth, traditional liquid of good quality
  • Oat milk: It is a gentle and supporting milk for the oats
  • Coconut milk: Full of tropical taste
• Maple syrup: A natural sweetener with a distinct, mouth-watering flavor. The mixture of it enhances the sweetness of the oats while also adding a rich intensity of flavor. Honey can also be a suitable option due to its unique sweetness.
• Salt: A small quantity of salt is sufficient to complement the other tastes and keep the sweetness in check. It additionally improves the natural flavor of the oats.

How To Make Overnight Oats: Easy Steps

Quick overnight oats are an easy and affordable breakfast option that you could whisk together right before you sleep. This manner, you can eat a healthy and tasty meal that is ready to fuel you in the morning.

Ingredients

• ½ cup whole rolled oats
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• ½ teaspoon maple syrup
• ¼ cup whole milk Greek yogurt, if necessary
• ⅔ cup unsweetened almond milk
• A pinch of sea salt

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Combine the Ingredients

First, you'll need a jar with a tight-fitting lid: a glass regular mouth Mason jar will work. In the jar, integrate the measured portions of whole rolled oats, chia seeds, and a pleasant dash of maple syrup to sweeten.

Next, add a pinch of salt to bring out the flavors.

2. Prepare the Base

If desired, add a spoonful of Greek yogurt at this stage for extra protein and creaminess. Then, add milk—almond or any milk of your choice.

Mix well with a spoon, making sure the whole thing is incorporated and no clumps of chia seeds are sitting at the lowest of the jar.

3. Refrigerate

Once you have mixed all the ingredients, secure the jar with a tight lid. Place the jar in the refrigerator, where the magic will occur through the night.

The oats and chia seeds will continue to absorb the liquid, softening and creating an amazing texture as they soak.

You can soak your oats for only one night, or prepare a few jars at a time to keep in the fridge for up to five days for quicker mornings.

4. Serve

Take the jar out of the refrigerator whenever you're prepared to consume. At this stage, your oats are ready for consumption, however you could make it tastier along with your desired toppings: fruit, nuts, or nut butter.

If you have a sweet tooth, a drizzle of maple syrup may just do the magic quite perfectly. Mix everything together, and your healthy, no-cook breakfast is ready to be enjoyed.

Want to try something new? You can also bake oats for a healthy morning.

How Long Are Overnight Oats Good For In Fridge

Overnight oats are a wonderful pre-made breakfast. If you follow the right steps, you will even have your oats in the refrigerator for a whole week.

The simple version has only milk and oats (basic overnight oats) which will be okay in the refrigerator for 5 days. Remember, the oats should be stored in airtight jars or containers.

This prevents them from absorbing odors from other foods.

Here the strategy is to add healthy oatmeal toppings such as fresh fruit, nuts, and seeds right before you consume the oats, rather than during the initial preparation when you are making the oat base.

If you decide to include fruit while preparing, the oats may spoil more easily. Therefore, the best way to enjoy them is to consume them within 2–3 days.

Before consuming, just double-check your oats. If they smell weird or appear moldy, it would be best to throw them out.

Tips For Making Best Overnight Oats

• Use a jar with measurement lines. This allows you to measure, mix, store, and eat from the same container.
• Pick old-fashioned rolled oats. Quick oats become too mushy, and steel-cut oats don't soften enough.
• Warm them up if you prefer. While usually eaten cold, you can microwave them for a minute in a microwave-safe jar.
• Prepare a week's worth at once. They stay good in the fridge for up to 5 days. Be careful with fresh fruit, as it may not last as long.
• Get the liquid-to-oats ratio right. Start with 1:1 and adjust to your liking. Too much liquid makes them runny; too little makes them too thick.
• Layer toppings instead of mixing them in. This keeps fruits, nuts, and syrups fresh until you're ready to eat.
• Refrigerate for at least 4 hours. Extended chilling time (overnight is best) improves the flavor.
• Consider milk temperature. Room-temperature milk soaks in faster than cold milk if you're short on time.

Popular Add-Ins And Toppings

You can definitely enjoy plain oats, but sometimes we really need to experiment with our favorite toppings. This makes the dish more flavorful and adds a bit of fun.

Nuts and seeds: Add them if you enjoy some crunch in your oats and want the nutritional benefits of seeds; there are various options to choose from.

• Walnuts for earthy flavor
• Almonds for a textural upgrade
• Pecans for a buttery bite
• Chia seeds for added fiber and omega-3s
• Flaxseeds for a boost of fiber and protein

Fruits: These are common toppings for oats that make the meal healthy and you have endless options to try. Choose from seasonal, tropical, and many other varieties.

• Bananas, sliced, for a sweet, natural flavor
• Juicy berries to add a pop of flavor
• Diced apples for an added crunch

Sweeteners: To enhance the flavor and personalize your meal. Adjusting the amount to your taste and look for what works best for you. Keep in mind that most sweeteners are calorie-dense.

• Honey for a floral note
• Agave syrup for a silky touch
• Maple syrup for a pure, sweet touch
• Stevia and monk as low-calorie alternatives

Spices: Did you know that spices can be added to oats? They enhance both flavor and nutrition.

• Cinnamon for warmth
• Nutmeg for nutty flavor
• Ginger for a zesty kick
• Cardamom for a fragrant, slightly sweet flavor

Creamy Elements: They add rich flavors and delightful textures. They also contribute healthy fats and make your meal more satisfying.

• Peanut butter for a savory kick
• Coconut cream for a tropical vibe
• Nutella for a lavish touch

Unexpected Twists: Explore these unique ideas to infuse fun and flavor into your oats:

• Cocoa powder for a chocolaty touch
• Lemon zest for a burst of citrus freshness
• Matcha powder for an antioxidant boost

Overnight Oats Recipe Variations

Apple Pie Overnight Oats

This seems like apple pie in oatmeal form. Mix your oats with diced apples and cinnamon. You can upload a bit maple syrup for added sweetness.

That is an amazing way to enjoy the fall flavors any time of the year.

PB&J Overnight Oats

Stir some peanut butter into your oats and top with your selected jelly. It's an amusing twist on a traditional mixture - both tasty and filling.

Chocolate Banana Bread Overnight Oats

Here we mix the flavors of chocolate and banana bread. Blend a few cocoa powder and mashed banana into your oats. Add some chocolate chips in case you want a greater chocolatey flavor.

Peach Crisp Overnight Oats

Another dessert-like breakfast is this peach-flavored oatmeal. You may use either fresh or canned peaches with a pinch of cinnamon

For the crunchy topping, add granola in the morning before devouring.

Mango Overnight Oats

For a tropical taste, try this mango version. Stir in fresh mango pieces into your oats. You can use coconut milk instead of regular milk to make it even more tropical.

Some FAQs

Is overnight oats healthy?

Yes, overnight oats are healthful. They offer a nutritious and quick breakfast choice for many reasons, including their fiber content and versatility.

Are overnight oats good for weight loss?

Yes, overnight oats can be a great addition to a weight loss diet. They're a convenient, low-calorie meal option that can help you feel full and satisfied.

They are rich in fiber, which can aid in digestion. Plus, they're versatile, allowing you to add various toppings like fruits, nuts, or seeds.

How to make overnight oats with water?

This is a simple and most basic recipe. Just combine rolled oats and water in a jar. Use equal portions of both. Stir and mix well, and refrigerate overnight.

In the morning, add your favored toppings and revel in!

What kind of oats to use for overnight oats?

Choose old-fashioned rolled oats. These varieties soak up the liquid very well. When kept overnight you will end up with a creamy breakfast. Don’t worry—it won’t be mushy!