Easy Overnight Oats Recipe: Tips for the Best

Overnight oats have taken the breakfast world by storm, offering a convenient, nutritious, and versatile start to your day. But what exactly are overnight oats, and why have they become so popular? Today, we are sharing a simple two-ingredient base recipe with a variety of delicious add-ins and flavor combinations.

When I’m in a hurry, which always seems to be the case in the morning. My overnight oats are my morning lifesaver. It’s a delicious and nutritious grab-and-go breakfast. The only problem I have is remembering to spend a few minutes prepping the night before.

They are a zero-cooking grab-and-go breakfast that’s delicious and nutritious! What I love is how customizable oats are with the toppings; you can have a different breakfast every day of the week.

What Are Overnight Oats?

Instead of cooking oatmeal on the stovetop or in the microwave, you soak the raw oats with milk. Overnight oats are a no-cook method of preparing oatmeal by soaking rolled oats in liquid (usually milk or a milk alternative) overnight. The oats to absorb the liquid and soften, creating a creamy and satisfying breakfast without the need for cooking. The beauty of overnight oats lies in their simplicity and versatility, making them a popular choice for busy mornings.

How to Make 2-Ingredient Basic Overnight Oats Recipe

Creating a base for overnight oats is incredibly simple and requires just two ingredients: rolled oats and milk (or any milk alternative). Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup milk, almond milk, oat milk, coconut milk, soy milk. Really any kind of milk, dairy or non-dairy.

Just add the oats and milk to a glass jar, mix and pop in the refrigerator.

This basic recipe serves as a blank canvas, ready to be customized with your favorite toppings and flavorings.

My daughter likes to mash up one banana and add a tablespoon of chia seeds to the base.  Then the next morning, she adds creamy peanut butter, honey, or brown sugar to sweeten.

I am more of a fruit in the morning person. I make the base with brown sugar and cinnamon and mix it all in my mason jar. The next morning I add fresh sliced banana, fresh blueberries, strawberries, sliced apples, blackberries, or raspberries. Really, whatever fresh fruit I have on hand. If I have some, I like to add Greek Yogurt.

Recipe Add-Ins and Flavor Combination Options

The fun part of making overnight oats is experimenting with different add-ins and flavors. Here are some popular combinations to try for a tasty breakfast.

Fruits

• Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• Sliced banana
• Chopped apples or pears
• Dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, apricots)

Nuts and Seeds

• Chia seeds
• Flaxseeds
• Almonds, walnuts, or pecans
• Sunflower or pumpkin seeds

Sweeteners

• Honey or pure maple syrup
• Agave nectar
• Brown sugar or coconut sugar

Spices and Flavorings

• Cinnamon or nutmeg
• Vanilla extract
• Cocoa powder

Yogurt and Nut Butters

• Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt
• Peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter

Tips for Making the Best Overnight Oats

To ensure your overnight oats are always delicious, here are some helpful tips:

Use the Right Oats. Rolled oats work best for overnight oats. Avoid instant oats, as they can become too mushy.

Adjust Liquid Ratios. Depending on your desired consistency, you can adjust the amount of liquid. For thicker oats, use less liquid; for creamier oats, use more.

Mix Well. Ensure the oats are thoroughly mixed with the liquid to avoid any dry spots.

Add Fresh Toppings in the Morning. To maintain freshness and texture, add fresh fruits and crunchy toppings just before serving.

Experiment with Flavors. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your add-ins and flavor combinations. The possibilities are endless!

With this easy overnight oats recipe and our tips for success, you’ll have a delicious and nutritious breakfast ready to go every morning.

What Type of Oats are Best for Overnight Oats?

For the best overnight oats, use old-fashioned oats that have been rolled. Here’s why:

Rolled Oats

Rolled oats absorb the liquid well overnight, creating a creamy, yet slightly chewy texture that’s perfect for overnight oats.

Consistency. They maintain their structure and don’t turn mushy, unlike instant or quick oats.

Nutrition. Rolled oats retain their nutrients better compared to processed quick oats.

Avoid These Types

Quick Oats. These can become too mushy when soaked overnight, resulting in a less desirable texture.

Steel Cut Oats. These are too hard and chewy for overnight oats since they don’t soften enough with just soaking; they require cooking.

Optional: Gluten-Free Oats

If you need a gluten-free option, make sure to use certified gluten-free rolled oats. These will provide the same great texture and flavor without the gluten.

Using rolled oats ensures your overnight oats will be deliciously creamy with the perfect consistency every time.

Why we Love this No-Cook Breakfast: Easy Overnight Oats

The best part is skipping the stove and oven with this no-cook recipe. Simply combine the ingredients, let them sit overnight, and enjoy a hassle-free morning meal.

Just Two Essential Ingredients. The basic recipe requires just oats and milk. For extra flavor and texture, add Greek yogurt, chia seeds, a sweetener, and vanilla extract.

Nutrient-Packed. These oats are high in protein and fiber, keeping you full longer and providing essential nutrients.

Totally Customizable. Love fruits, chocolate chips, or nuts? You can mix in whatever you like. This recipe is perfect for creating your favorite flavor combinations.

Perfect for Meal Prep. Prepare overnight oats on Sunday night, and you’ll have a tasty, nutritious breakfast ready for the entire week.

Base Ingredients for Overnight Oats

Here’s what you need to make overnight oats:

Oats. Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best consistency. You can also use gluten-free oats, but avoid quick oats and steel-cut oats.

Milk. Any type of milk works, including full-fat, 2%, low-fat, or plant-based options like almond, coconut, cashew, or oat milk.

Chia Seeds (optional). These add nutrition and a pudding-like texture.

Greek or Vegan Yogurt (optional). Adds a tangy flavor, creamy texture, and extra protein.

Vanilla Extract (optional). Enhances flavors and adds sweetness without extra sugar.

Sweetener (optional). Honey or maple syrup can sweeten the oats, making them more enjoyable.

Toppings. Get creative with fresh or dried fruit, nut butters, nuts, seeds, and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom. The topping possibilities are endless, making this a versatile recipe.

Overnight oats make breakfast a breeze. Just mix the ingredients the night before, chill, and you’re set to go in the morning. There is a good reason I eat this, my daughter eats this, my niece does and so does my sister. It’s a great make-ahead breakfast option.

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