Classic Overnight Oats
Creamy, no-cook oatmeal that transforms in the fridge while you sleep. Just stir together rolled oats, milk, yogurt, and a touch of honey, then let time do the work. Come morning, you'll have a cool, satisfying breakfast that's endlessly customizable with your favorite toppings.
For 2 servings
- mix · ~1 min
Combine the oats and dry ingredients.
1.In a mixing bowl, add 1 cup rolled oats, 1 tablespoon chia seeds, and 1 pinch salt.2.Stir the dry ingredients together until evenly distributed. - mix · ~1 min
Whisk the wet ingredients.
1.Pour in 1 cup milk, ¼ cup yogurt, 1 tablespoon honey, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract.2.Whisk everything together until honey dissolves and the mixture is smooth with no dry pockets.TIPWarming the honey slightly helps it blend in faster. - assemble · ~1 min
Portion into jars and refrigerate.
1.Divide the oat mixture evenly between two mason jars or airtight containers.2.Seal tightly with lids.3.Refrigerate overnight, or for at least 8 hours.TIPThe oats need a full 8 hours to soften properly. Don't rush this step. - assemble · ~1 min
Add toppings and serve cold.
1.Remove jars from the fridge and give the oats a good stir.2.Top with sliced banana and fresh mixed berries.3.Serve chilled, straight from the jar.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use old-fashioned rolled oats for a creamy yet chewy texture; instant oats turn mushy and steel-cut stay too hard.
- 2Stir the mixture well halfway through the chilling time if you can, to re-distribute any settled chia seeds or oats.
- 3For a thicker consistency, reduce the milk by 2–3 tablespoons or add an extra tablespoon of chia seeds.
- 4Make a batch of 4–6 jars at once and store them in the fridge for up to 5 days for grab-and-go breakfasts.
- 5Let the jars sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before eating if you prefer a less chilly breakfast.
- 6Taste and adjust sweetness after chilling, since cold temperatures mute sweetness – stir in extra honey if needed.
Adapt it for your goals.
High-protein
Replace the plain yogurt with Greek yogurt or skyr, and add a scoop of vanilla or unflavored protein powder mixed into the wet ingredients. This keeps you fuller longer and bumps the protein to around 20g per serving.
veganVegan
Use plant-based milk (almond, oat, or soy) and swap the honey for maple syrup or agave, and replace the yogurt with a plain non-dairy yogurt or an extra ¼ cup of milk. Everything else stays the same.
low oil / nut freeLow-oil / nut-free
Skip or replace any nut-based milk and yogurt; use oat milk and soy yogurt. Omit any nut toppings and stick with the banana and berries. The base remains creamy without any oil or nuts.
chocolate peanut butterChocolate-peanut butter
Add 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder and 1 tablespoon peanut butter to the wet ingredients. Stir well so there are no lumps. Top with extra berries or a drizzle of peanut butter for a decadent twist.
tropicalTropical
Replace the banana and berries topping with diced mango, pineapple, and shredded coconut. Swap the honey for coconut sugar or agave to complement the tropical flavor profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Soluble Fiber
Rolled oats and chia seeds are excellent sources of soluble fiber, which helps lower cholesterol and keeps digestion regular.
Good Source of Calcium
Milk and yogurt provide natural calcium for strong bones and teeth, especially when using cow's milk or fortified plant-based versions.
Probiotics from Yogurt
The yogurt in this recipe delivers live active cultures that support a healthy gut microbiome.
Contains Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Chia seeds contribute alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a plant-based omega-3 that supports heart and brain health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, but the texture will be much softer and more mushy, almost like baby food. For the best results with this recipe, stick to old-fashioned rolled oats.
