These Banana Cream Pie Protein Overnight Oats are a tasty and easy breakfast! Packed with banana flavor and creamy goodness, they make waking up a little sweeter.
Who wouldn’t want a dessert-like breakfast? I love how I can prep these the night before and just grab them in the morning. Plus, they keep me full and happy all day long!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are the backbone of this recipe, providing fiber and a smooth texture. Quick oats will work but might change the consistency. For a gluten-free option, choose certified gluten-free oats.
Milk: Any milk works great here! I love using almond milk for a nutty flavor, but coconut milk adds a nice creaminess. If you’re looking for lower calories, go for unsweetened almond or oat milk.
Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt adds extra protein and creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, a good plant-based yogurt can substitute here. Coconut yogurt is a lovely option for a richer flavor.
Protein Powder: Vanilla protein powder enhances the banana flavor. If you’re not a fan of protein powder, you can omit it but consider adding an extra tablespoon of yogurt for creaminess.
Chia Seeds: These little seeds help thicken the mixture. If you don’t have chia seeds, ground flaxseed can be a good alternative.
How Do I Make the Oats Creamy and Delicious?
Getting your overnight oats creamy is key to enjoying this dish. Here’s how to achieve that perfect texture:
- Mix your rolled oats with enough liquid (milk and yogurt) to ensure they soak up all the moisture overnight.
- Add a mashed banana for natural sweetness and creaminess. Don’t skip this step—it’s essential for that banana pie flavor!
- Chill the mixture for at least 4 hours or overnight. This gives the oats time to soak up the liquid and get soft.
- If the oats are too thick in the morning, just add a splash more milk and stir until you reach your desired texture.
With these tips, you’ll be set to enjoy creamy, banana-flavored protein oats that taste like dessert but are healthy enough for breakfast. Enjoy!
Banana Cream Pie Protein Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Rolled Oats: 1/2 cup
- Milk of Choice: 1/2 cup (almond, dairy, etc.)
- Greek Yogurt: 1/4 cup (or plant-based yogurt for creaminess)
- Vanilla Protein Powder: 1/2 scoop
- Chia Seeds: 1 tsp
- Vanilla Extract: 1/2 tsp
- Mashed Ripe Banana: 1 tbsp (plus additional slices for topping)
- Natural Peanut Butter or Almond Butter: 1 tbsp (optional)
- Maple Syrup or Sweetener: 1-2 tsp (adjust to taste)
- Whipped Cream or Coconut Cream: for topping
- Crushed Graham Crackers or Digestive Biscuits: for garnish
- Cinnamon: a pinch (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare but make sure to plan for at least 4 hours of chilling time, or ideally overnight. This way, the oats can soak up all the flavors and achieve that creamy consistency.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl or a jar, start by adding the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, protein powder, chia seeds, vanilla extract, mashed banana, and maple syrup. Mix everything well until combined. This is where the delicious magic begins!
2. Add Creaminess:
If you’d like, swirl in a tablespoon of peanut butter or almond butter. It adds a nice richness and aligns perfectly with the banana flavor. Yummy!
3. Chill Out:
Cover the mixture tightly and refrigerate it overnight, or for at least 4 hours. This soaking time gives the oats and chia seeds the chance to soften and soak up all that deliciousness.
4. Stir and Adjust:
In the morning, take a moment to give your oats a good stir. If they’re a bit too thick for your liking, add a splash of milk and mix it in until it’s just right for you!
5. Layer It Up:
For a special touch, spoon on a layer of peanut butter or a banana-flavored creamy layer (like banana-flavored yogurt or pudding). This adds an extra kick of flavor!
6. Top It Off:
Now, it’s time for the fun part! Add a generous dollop of whipped cream or coconut cream on top. This gives it that classic pie feel.
7. Garnish:
Top with banana slices and a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers or digestive biscuits for that “pie crust” effect. The crunch is just perfect!
8. Optional Spice:
If you like, give it a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra flavor boost!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Grab a spoon and dig in! These Banana Cream Pie Protein Overnight Oats are a delightful and nutritious breakfast that tastes amazing.
Enjoy the creamy goodness and the sweet banana flavor every morning!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats, but keep in mind that they will absorb liquid faster and may result in a different texture. If you choose instant oats, you may want to reduce the soaking time to just a couple of hours.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Overnight Oats?
Leftover overnight oats can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. They might thicken up, so feel free to stir in a little extra milk before enjoying!
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt?
If you’re not a fan of Greek yogurt or need a dairy-free option, you can substitute it with coconut yogurt or any other plant-based yogurt. Just make sure it has a creamy texture to maintain that delicious consistency.
Can I Make It Vegan?
Absolutely! To make this recipe vegan, use plant-based yogurt, non-dairy milk, and maple syrup as your sweetener. The peanut butter can stay as is, or you could replace it with a different nut or seed butter if preferred.
