Vanilla Overnight Oats are a quick and yummy breakfast option! Just combine oats, milk, vanilla, and a bit of sweetener, then let them sit in the fridge overnight.
In the morning, you’ll have a creamy and satisfying meal waiting for you. I love adding fresh fruit or nuts on top for a little crunch and extra flavor. Yum! 🍓🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are perfect for overnight oats since they absorb liquid well and soften nicely. If you’re out of rolled oats, quick oats can also work, but they may get mushier. Steel-cut oats are not recommended for overnight oats as they need more cooking time.
Milk: You can use any milk you like! Almond milk, oat milk, and soy milk are great dairy-free options. I often use almond milk for its light flavor. If you want more creaminess, full-fat coconut milk is a delicious choice.
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and extra protein. If you prefer a dairy-free version, use a plant-based yogurt. Skipping it is fine too, just add a bit more milk to maintain consistency.
Chia Seeds: They help to thicken your oats and are packed with nutrients. If you’re out of chia seeds, try using ground flax seeds. Just keep in mind they won’t thicken the oats quite as much.
Sweetener: I love using honey or maple syrup! If you’re vegan or prefer a different option, agave syrup or even mashed bananas can work well.
How Do I Make Sure My Overnight Oats Are Perfectly Creamy?
The key to getting creamy overnight oats is balancing your ingredients! Here are some tips:
- Make sure to include enough liquid (milk) to fully hydrate the oats and chia seeds.
- Include Greek yogurt for added creaminess – it makes a big difference!
- You can adjust the thickness by varying the amount of milk. If you like it thicker, use less milk.
After mixing, let your oats sit overnight. They absorb all the flavors and achieve that nice creamy consistency. I always give them a good stir in the morning before adding toppings for the best texture!
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 Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1-2 tsp honey or maple syrup (to taste)
- Pinch of salt
- Banana slices (for topping)
- Pomegranate seeds (for topping)
- A few oats or nuts for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. Then you’ll want to let it chill for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, in the fridge. So, just mix your ingredients, set them in the fridge, and wake up to a delicious breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a jar or bowl, add your rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt (if you’re using it), vanilla extract, chia seeds, honey or maple syrup, and a pinch of salt. These ingredients come together to create a deliciously creamy mixture.
2. Mix It Up:
Use a spoon or a small whisk to stir everything together until it’s well mixed. Make sure the oats and chia seeds are completely soaked in the liquid. This will help them soften nicely.
3. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover your jar or bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the fridge. Let it sit overnight or for at least 4 hours so the oats and chia seeds can absorb the milk and flavors.
4. Ready to Serve:
In the morning, take your oats out of the fridge and give them a good stir. You might find they have thickened up nicely! Add a splash of milk if you want to loosen it up a bit.
5. Add Your Toppings:
Top your oats with fresh banana slices, pomegranate seeds, and a sprinkle of extra oats or your favorite nuts for some crunch. Feel free to get creative with the toppings!
6. Enjoy!
Serve your vanilla overnight oats chilled and savor the creamy goodness. It’s a healthy, satisfying breakfast that you can enjoy on the go!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but keep in mind they will absorb liquid faster and may result in a mushier texture. Rolled oats provide a chewier consistency that’s ideal for overnight oats.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of My Overnight Oats?
Feel free to adjust the sweetness to your liking! Start with the recommended 1-2 teaspoons of honey or maple syrup, then taste it. You can always add more if you prefer it sweeter, or even use mashed bananas for a natural sweetener.
What Are Some Other Topping Ideas?
You can get creative with toppings! Try adding berries, nuts, nut butter, shredded coconut, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon. The options are endless, so mix and match based on what you have on hand!
How Long Do Leftover Overnight Oats Last?
Leftover overnight oats can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Just give them a good stir before serving, and you can add fresh toppings as desired!