Basic Overnight Oats
Learn how to make simple overnight oats with just 4 ingredients! It’s quick and easy to prep, naturally sweetened, versatile, and delicious!
Oats are such an adaptable ingredient and can be served so many different ways for breakfast – hot oatmeal, baked oatmeal, savory oatmeal, granola, pancakes, cookies, muffins! The possibilities seem endless, and of course we have to add overnight oats to that list! Use this overnight oats recipe as a template for all kinds of flavors (some ideas included below). Get creative and have fun with your breakfast!
Quick & Easy to Prep
Overnight oats are one of the easiest and best breakfasts to prep! They’re filling, delicious, super versatile, and only require a handful of ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen/pantry. Prep a batch (maybe double) at the beginning of the week and save yourself the hassle of deciding what to eat for breakfast (or skipping it all together).
Overnight Oats FAQ
How long can I store overnight oats?
Overnight oats will last about 3-5 days in the fridge, depending on the freshness of the milk and apple used. Store in airtight containers. If using one large container, make sure to use a clean utensil each time you take some out to prevent contamination of the oats.
Can I omit the apple?
You can, but this adds some sweetness so without it your oats will be pretty plain. If omitting the apple, be sure to top your oats with some fruit, or you can sweeten with maple syrup or another sweetener of choice.
You could add mashed banana instead, but I wouldn’t recommend storing this for more than a day or two. The banana will oxidize and turn your oats brown, and may develop a strong, over-ripe banana smell.
Can I omit the chia seeds?
You can omit them or sub with flax seeds. I like adding chia seeds for healthy fats and to bulk the oats up a bit.
How can I add more protein?
Use a high protein milk like soy milk or pea milk. Add a scoop or two of your favorite protein powder. Top with nuts/seeds (almonds, walnuts, pecans, pumpkin seeds, hemp seeds) or nut/seed butter (peanut butter, almond butter, sunflower seed butter, tahini). Or you can serve the oats along with a tofu scramble or frittata.
Overnight Oats Flavor Ideas
Cinnamon Apple ⟶ Add 1/2 tsp cinnamon. You can also add a tablespoon of maple syrup if you want your oats sweeter.
Chocolate Oats ⟶ Add 2 tbsp cocoa powder + 2 tbsp sweetener of choice. Top with chocolate chips for extra chocolate flavor!
Strawberries & Cream ⟶ Blend 1/2 cup milk + 1/2 cup yogurt + 1/2 cup strawberries + 1 tbsp sweetener + 1/2 tsp vanilla extract. Use this as the liquid for the oats (instead of just milk). Top with extra strawberries and yogurt!
Mango ⟶ Blend 1/2 cup milk + 1/2 cup yogurt (coconut would be delicious) + 1/2 cup mango + 1 tbsp sweetener + 1/2 tsp vanilla extract. Use this as the liquid for the oats. Top with fresh mango!
Matcha ⟶ Add 2 tsp matcha powder + 1 tbsp sweetener + 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional). Top with anko (red bean paste) and black sesame for the ultimate Japanese flavor combo.
Coffee ⟶ Replace about half the liquid with coffee (or more depending on your preference) and add 1 tbsp sweetener. Or add 1/2 tsp instant coffee granules.
More Easy & Delicious Breakfasts
- Oatmeal Banana Breakfast Cookies
- Banana Oat Pancakes
- Pumpkin Oat Pancakes
- Healthy Maple Granola
- Banana Bread Baked Oatmeal
- Snickers Chia Pudding
If you try these basic overnight oats, don’t forget to leave a comment/rating down below and tag me in your photos on instagram @ellielikes.cooking. I love seeing all of your tasty recreations!
Basic Overnight Oats
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup + 2 tbsp milk/liquid of choice I like to use 1/2 soy milk + 1/2 water
- 1 apple grated
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
Optional
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
- 1-2 scoops protein powder
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a bowl or jar and mix to combine. Cover and place in the fridge for at least 2 hours to thicken.
- Once thickened, check the consistency and thin with extra milk or water if desired.
Serving ideas
- Overnight oats can be served cold or warm. If you prefer warm oats, mix in around ¼ cup water and microwave for 1 minute. Stir and microwave another 30 seconds or until cooked to your liking. Add extra milk as desired.
- Top with fresh or frozen fruit, jam, nuts/seeds, or nut/seed butter.
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