Save Creamy, customizable overnight oats layered in jars with delicious toppings, ideal for meal prep and Instagram-worthy breakfasts. Prep is simple and you wake up to a ready-made breakfast that feels special every morning!
I first started making overnight oats when I needed fast, healthy breakfasts. Layering them in jars with colorful toppings made my mornings feel bright and energized, and my family loves picking their own combinations.
Ingredients
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: 2 cups
- Milk: 2 cups (dairy or plant-based)
- Plain Greek yogurt: 1 cup (or plant-based yogurt for vegan)
- Chia seeds: 2 tbsp
- Maple syrup or honey: 2 tbsp
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Salt: Pinch
- Fresh berries: 1/2 cup (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Banana: 1 medium, sliced
- Granola: 1/4 cup
- Shredded coconut: 2 tbsp
- Nut butter: 2 tbsp (peanut, almond, or sunflower seed)
- Chopped nuts: 2 tbsp (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
- Dark chocolate chips: 2 tbsp
- Dried fruit: 2 tbsp (raisins, cranberries, apricots)
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine oats, milk, yogurt, chia seeds, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until well combined.
- Divide Into Jars:
- Evenly distribute the oat mixture among 4 clean jars, about 3/4 cup per jar.
- Add Toppings:
- Top each jar with your favorite combinations. Try: mixed berries with granola, sliced banana with peanut butter and nuts, shredded coconut with dried cranberries and chocolate chips, or strawberries with almond butter.
- Chill Overnight:
- Seal jars with lids and refrigerate for at least 8 hours.
- Serve:
- Stir in the morning, add extra milk if you like more creaminess, and enjoy straight from the jar or in a bowl.
Save My kids love making their own jars the night before, and breakfast feels like a special occasion when everyone gets their favorite flavors. It brings fun and healthy habits into our routine!
Required Tools
Mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, 4 glass jars or airtight containers, spoon
Allergen Information
Contains dairy and nuts if used in toppings; for nut-free, select seed alternatives and avoid nut butter/nuts. For gluten-free, choose certified gluten-free oats and always check product labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (base only): Calories: 250, Total Fat: 6 g, Carbohydrates: 38 g, Protein: 10 g. Toppings will add extra nutrition and variety.
Save Enjoy your overnight oats straight from the jar or pour them into a bowl for something extra. Meal prep has never tasted or looked this good!
Recipe Questions
- → How long should the oats soak for best texture?
Allow the oats to soak for a minimum of 8 hours or overnight to achieve a creamy, fully softened texture.
- → Can I use plant-based milk and yogurt?
Yes, swapping dairy for plant-based alternatives like almond milk and coconut yogurt makes this suitable for vegan preferences.
- → What are some topping ideas to try?
Try fresh berries, sliced banana, granola, shredded coconut, nut butters, chopped nuts, dark chocolate chips, or dried fruits for varied flavors and textures.
- → Is it possible to prepare this ahead for the week?
Yes, prepare jars in advance and store them refrigerated for up to five days, perfect for quick breakfasts throughout the week.
- → How can I make the oats sweeter naturally?
Use maple syrup or honey to add natural sweetness; adjust the amount according to your preference.