Berry & Walnut Overnight Oats
This Berry & Walnut Overnight Oats recipe is the ultimate cholesterol-lowering breakfast, requiring just 5 minutes of prep time. It's a convenient, delicious, and nutrient-packed way to start your day.
For 1 serving
Gather all your ingredients and select a jar or container with a tight-fitting lid (a 16-ounce mason jar works perfectly).
In the jar, combine the rolled oats, milk of your choice, ground flaxseed, maple syrup (or other sweetener), ground cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt (if using).
Stir all the ingredients thoroughly with a spoon, ensuring the oats are fully submerged in the liquid and the flaxseed is well distributed to prevent clumping.
Gently fold in the mixed berries and chopped walnuts. Stir just enough to combine without crushing the berries too much.
Place the lid securely on the jar and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, but preferably overnight (8 hours) for the best texture and flavor development.
In the morning, remove the jar from the refrigerator. Give the oats a good stir.
If the oats are too thick for your liking, add a splash more milk until you reach your desired consistency.
Serve cold directly from the jar, or transfer to a bowl. Garnish with a few extra fresh berries or walnuts if desired, and enjoy!
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Always use old-fashioned rolled oats, not instant or quick oats, as they absorb liquid better and maintain a pleasant chewy texture without becoming mushy.
- 2Adjust the amount of milk to achieve your preferred consistency. If you like it thicker, use slightly less milk; for a thinner consistency, add a bit more in the morning.
- 3For an extra protein boost, stir in 1-2 tablespoons of your favorite protein powder (vanilla or unflavored work best) along with the dry ingredients before adding the liquid.
- 4Meal prep multiple jars at once! These overnight oats will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making them perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast throughout the week.
Adapt it for your goals.
Tropical Twist
Swap mixed berries for diced mango or pineapple, and walnuts for shredded coconut or macadamia nuts. Add a squeeze of lime juice for extra zest.
Nut Butter BoostNut Butter Boost
Swirl in 1-2 tablespoons of peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter with the wet ingredients for added creaminess and healthy fats.
Chocolate CherryChocolate Cherry
Replace mixed berries with pitted cherries (fresh or frozen) and add 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder along with a few dark chocolate chips for a decadent treat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Heart-Healthy Powerhouse
Oats provide beta-glucans, a soluble fiber known to lower cholesterol, while walnuts and flaxseed contribute omega-3 fatty acids, promoting cardiovascular health.
Rich in Fiber & Digestion Support
The combination of oats, berries, and flaxseed delivers a significant amount of dietary fiber, aiding digestion, promoting satiety, and stabilizing blood sugar levels.
Antioxidant Boost
Mixed berries are packed with antioxidants, which help combat free radicals in the body, reduce inflammation, and support overall cellular health.
Frequently asked questions
It is highly recommended to use old-fashioned rolled oats. Instant or quick oats will become mushy and lose their desirable texture when soaked overnight.
