How to Make Overnight Oats

Happy Friday! I got a few comments and emails yesterday about how to make Overnight Oats, so I figured it was a good time to do post a how-to. While I didn’t invent the concept, one of the best things about this breakfast food is that you can customize it to your own tastes. It’s the perfect do-ahead dish because all you do is mix the ingredients and let the mixture soak overnight (or even a few hours). I often make it in a pyrex to-go container.

It’s become one of my early-morning staples because it’s filling, delicious, and come on—how fabulous is it to have breakfast just waiting for you when you get out of the shower?

Below you’ll find two versions—one is a version that uses almond milk, to which I sometimes add (no-salt-added) cottage cheese in the morning for extra protein. The other uses yogurt. These are just the two types I’ve found myself going back to again and again but you might find you like something a little different. Have fun experimenting!

Almond Milk Version

Before

After

Ingredients:

• 1/4 c- 1/3 c oats
• 2 tbsp chia seeds (you can also use 1 tbsp each ground flax and chia seeds)
• 1/2 banana, sliced (or 1 small banana)
• cinnamon, vanilla to taste
• optional: protein powder, cocoa powder, other spices, fruit, dried fruit, etc.
• 1/2-3/4 c almond milk (any other milk works too)

Directions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well blended. Cover and leave in fridge to soak overnight.
2. In the morning, uncover and add any toppings you like. I usually go with fruit and a little cottage cheese for extra protein, but nut butter butters and coconut, and chocolate shavings are also fabulous additions. I’m sure granola would be great too!

Yogurt Version

Ingredients:

• 1/4 c- 1/3 c oats
• 2 tbsp chia seeds (you can also use 1 tbsp each ground flax and chia seeds)
• 1/2 banana, sliced (or 1 small banana)
• cinnamon, vanilla to taste
• optional: protein powder, cocoa powder, other spices, fruit, dried fruit, etc.
• 3/4 c – 1 c plain yogurt (flavored would be fine too)

Directions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well blended. Cover and leave in fridge overnight.
2. In the morning, take out, stir, and add toppings. I like adding any fruit but it’s hard to go wrong.

Enjoy!