Vanilla Overnight Oats are a simple and tasty breakfast option. Just mix oats, milk, yogurt, and a splash of vanilla, then let them sit in the fridge overnight. Easy-peasy!
I love waking up to a ready-to-eat breakfast! You can add fruits or nuts for an extra crunch—perfect for busy mornings. Trust me, you’ll want to make these again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: These oats are sturdy enough to soak overnight. If you’re in a rush, quick oats work, but they’ll be softer. Steel-cut oats can be used if you cook them first.
Milk: You can use any milk you prefer—almond, soy, coconut, or oat milk are great choices for a dairy-free version. Full-fat milk will give creaminess, while skim milk keeps it lighter.
Greek Yogurt: This adds protein and creaminess. You can swap it for regular yogurt or a dairy-free yogurt if preferred. I personally love using flavored yogurt for a little extra taste.
Chia Seeds: They increase creaminess and add fiber. If you don’t have chia seeds, you can skip them, although they help with thickening. Flaxseeds are a possible alternative as well.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both sweeteners are optional. For a lower-calorie option, mashed bananas can also add sweetness naturally. I like to add a little cinnamon for extra flavor!
How Can I Make Sure My Oats Are Perfectly Creamy?
Getting the right texture is crucial for overnight oats. Follow these tips to achieve that perfect creaminess:
- Mix all ingredients well before sealing your jar or bowl. This ensures an even distribution of flavors.
- Make sure to cover your jar tightly to prevent moisture loss overnight.
- If in the morning, the oats are too thick, stir in a small amount of milk to achieve your desired consistency.
- Feel free to adjust the oat-to-liquid ratio depending on your texture preference. More liquid means creamier oats.
Vanilla Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 to 2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- Banana, sliced (for topping)
- Sliced almonds or other nuts (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then you’ll need to let it refrigerate overnight, or for at least 4 hours. It’s the perfect make-ahead breakfast that saves you time in the morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients:
In a clean jar or a bowl, combine the rolled oats, chia seeds, milk, Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, and honey or maple syrup if you like it sweeter. Give everything a good mix until it’s well combined. This helps the oats absorb the liquid evenly.
2. Seal and Chill:
After mixing, seal your jar tightly or cover the bowl with a lid or some plastic wrap. Refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours) so the oats and chia seeds can absorb the liquid and soften up nicely. It’s best to let it sit overnight so the flavors can blend together!
3. Serve and Enjoy:
The next morning, take your oats out and give them a nice stir. If the mixture looks too thick for your liking, just add a splash of milk to loosen it up to your desired texture. Now, top it with sliced banana and some sliced almonds or any nuts you enjoy for a lovely crunch. Serve chilled and enjoy your creamy, delicious vanilla-flavored breakfast!
This recipe is not just tasty but also healthy, making it a perfect way to start your day!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
You can, but the texture will be different. Instant oats will make your mixture smoother and softer. If you prefer the heartier texture of rolled oats, I recommend sticking with them!
Can I Prepare This Recipe for the Week?
Absolutely! You can prepare multiple jars of overnight oats at once. Just make sure to keep them sealed in the fridge. They’ll last for about 3-5 days, so you can enjoy a quick breakfast throughout the week.
What If I Don’t Have Greek Yogurt?
No worries! You can substitute it with regular yogurt or even a dairy-free yogurt if you’re looking for a non-dairy option. The creaminess might vary slightly, but you’ll still get a delicious meal!
Can I Add Other Toppings or Mix-Ins?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Fresh fruits like berries or apples, nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even a scoop of nut butter can enhance the flavor and texture. Just add them before serving for the best taste!
