Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
1/2 cup rolled oats – These absorb liquid and swell overnight, creating a creamy, soft texture.
1/2 cup milk – You can use dairy milk or any non-dairy alternative like almond, soy, or oat milk for a vegan option.
1/2 cup plain yogurt (optional) – Adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor, perfect for a probiotic boost.
1 tablespoon chia seeds – These expand when soaked and help thicken the mixture, providing fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup – Sweetens the base; you can adjust this to your taste preference.
Optional Toppings:
Sliced banana – Adds natural sweetness and a creamy texture.
Fresh berries (e.g., raspberries, blueberries) – Offers antioxidants, tartness, and a pop of color.
Chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts, pecans) – Adds crunch, healthy fats, and protein.
Sprinkle of chia seeds – For added fiber, texture, and a nutrient boost.
Drizzle of honey – For extra sweetness, if preferred.
Construction
Prepare the Base:
In a small jar or container, combine rolled oats, milk, yogurt (if using), chia seeds, and sweetener.
Stir well to ensure that the chia seeds are evenly distributed, and the mixture is thoroughly mixed.
Chill Overnight:
Cover the jar with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the fridge.
Allow it to chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the oats and chia seeds to absorb the liquid and soften, creating a creamy texture.
Add Toppings:
In the morning, give the oats a quick stir. Add any desired toppings like sliced banana, fresh berries, chopped nuts, and an extra drizzle of honey or syrup if you like.
Serve:
Enjoy your overnight oats straight from the jar, cold, or you can warm them up slightly if you prefer them warm.
Variations
Chocolate Peanut Butter:
Add 1 tablespoon of peanut butter and 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder to the base. Top with chopped peanuts and a few dark chocolate chips.
Apple Cinnamon:
Add 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon and chopped apple to the base. You can also sprinkle some extra cinnamon on top after stirring in the morning.
Tropical Coconut:
Add shredded coconut and pineapple chunks for a tropical flavor. Top with extra coconut flakes and a drizzle of honey.
Matcha Green Tea:
Mix in 1 teaspoon of matcha powder into the base before chilling. Top with coconut flakes, berries, or a drizzle of honey.
Pumpkin Spice:
Add 2 tablespoons of pumpkin puree and 1/2 teaspoon of pumpkin spice. Top with a handful of granola or walnuts.
Tips
Adjusting Sweetness: You can use agave nectar, stevia, or even mashed banana as a natural sweetener instead of honey or maple syrup.
For a Thicker Texture: Add a little more chia seeds or reduce the liquid slightly.
Vegan-Friendly: Skip the yogurt or use a plant-based alternative (like coconut yogurt) to make it completely vegan.
Make a Big Batch: This recipe can be easily doubled or tripled for meal prepping. Just divide the mixture into separate jars for an easy grab-and-go breakfast throughout the week.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom, or add vanilla extract for added flavor.
Storage: Overnight oats can last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator, so you can prep several jars at once.
Enjoy the variety and flexibility of overnight oats!
