Vanilla overnight oats are a simple and yummy breakfast! Just mix rolled oats, milk, yogurt, and a splash of vanilla, then let it sit in the fridge overnight. Easy peasy!
You’ll wake up to a creamy delight, ready to be topped with fruits or nuts. Honestly, who doesn’t love a breakfast that waits for you while you sleep? 😄
I love how I can prepare these oats in just a minute before bed. In the morning, there’s no cooking, and they taste so fresh. Perfect for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are perfect for overnight oats as they soak up the liquid overnight. If you don’t have rolled oats, you can use quick oats, but they might be a bit mushy. Steel-cut oats aren’t recommended since they need longer cooking time.
Milk: You can use any type of milk you prefer! Almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk are great plant-based options. I enjoy vanilla almond milk for added flavor. Just remember to choose unsweetened if you’re controlling sugar intake.
Yogurt: Greek yogurt gives a nice creaminess, but if you want a dairy-free alternative, coconut yogurt works well too. You can skip it entirely if you prefer a lighter texture.
Chia Seeds: These add thickness and are packed with fiber! If you don’t have chia seeds, you can use flaxseeds instead, or simply add an extra tablespoon of oats to slightly thicken the mixture.
Sweetener: Honey and maple syrup are both great! If you’re avoiding sugar, sweeten with mashed banana or use stevia or a sugar substitute.
How Do I Get the Right Consistency for My Overnight Oats?
Getting the perfect consistency for overnight oats takes a little experimentation, and it’s all about the ratio of liquid to oats. Follow these steps for best results:
- Use a 1:2 ratio of oats to liquid for a creamy texture—1/2 cup oats with 1 cup liquid (milk plus yogurt if using).
- Let your mixture sit overnight or for at least 6 hours, which allows time for absorption. Check and adjust by adding more liquid if you find it too thick.
- If you prefer a looser consistency, stir in a splash of milk right before eating. This makes it fresh and easy to enjoy!
Remember, everyone has their own preference, so don’t hesitate to adjust these ratios to find your ideal bowl of oats!
How to Make Vanilla Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 small banana, sliced (for topping)
- A small handful of chopped almonds (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes just 10 minutes to prepare. After that, it needs to chill in the fridge overnight or for at least 6 hours. So, you can make it in the evening, and it will be ready for a quick breakfast the next morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a jar or bowl, put together the rolled oats, milk, yogurt (if you’re using it), chia seeds, vanilla extract, and honey or maple syrup if you like a bit of sweetness. Make sure to mix everything well with a spoon or a fork.
2. Mix Everything Together:
Stir thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are well combined. You want the oats to be evenly coated in the liquid.
3. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover the jar or bowl with a lid or plastic wrap, and pop it in the fridge. Let it sit overnight or for at least 6 hours. This allows the oats and chia seeds to absorb the liquid and become soft.
4. Give It a Stir:
When you’re ready to eat, take the jar out of the fridge. Stir the mixture well. If it looks too thick for your liking, just add a little more milk until you reach your preferred consistency.
5. Add Your Toppings:
Now, it’s time to top your oats! Add sliced banana and a sprinkle of chopped almonds on top for a delightful crunch and flavor.
6. Enjoy!
Your creamy and delicious vanilla overnight oats are ready to eat. You can enjoy them cold, straight from the jar or bowl. Perfect for a quick and healthy breakfast!
This recipe gives you a tasty, nutritious meal with the awesome texture of oats and chia seeds, plus the sweetness of banana and crunch from almonds—just like the image shows!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
While you can use instant oats in a pinch, they tend to become very mushy when soaked overnight. Rolled oats hold their texture better, so they’re the preferred choice for this recipe for a more satisfying bite.
Can I Prepare These Oats for More Than One Day?
Absolutely! You can make a batch to last up to 3-4 days in the fridge. Just portion them into individual jars, and grab one each morning for a quick breakfast. The flavors will meld beautifully over time!
What Are Some Good Toppings for Overnight Oats?
The options are endless! Besides sliced bananas and almonds, you can top your oats with berries, nut butters, shredded coconut, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon. Get creative and use what you love!
How Should I Store Leftover Oats?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you notice it thickening too much, just stir in a splash of milk before enjoying it again!
