Save Creamy, customizable overnight oats layered in jars with delicious toppings are ideal for meal prep and Instagram-worthy breakfasts. These oats are easy to prepare, nutritious, and can be tailored to your favorite flavors.
When I first began making overnight oats, I loved experimenting with different toppings in separate jars. It became my go-to breakfast during busy weeks—just grab, stir, and eat!
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
- Combine Base Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, mix together oats, milk, yogurt, chia seeds, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until thoroughly combined.
- Divide Into Jars:
- Spoon the oat mixture evenly into 4 clean jars or containers (about 3/4 cup per jar).
- Add Toppings:
- Layer your favorite toppings onto each jar. For example, try mixed berries and granola, sliced banana with peanut butter and nuts, shredded coconut with dried cranberries and chocolate chips, or strawberries with almond butter.
- Refrigerate Overnight:
- Seal the jars with lids and chill overnight (at least 8 hours).
- Enjoy:
- In the morning, give the oats a stir, add extra milk for desired creaminess, and enjoy straight from the jar or transfer to a bowl.
Save One morning, my kids loved decorating their own jars of oats with colorful berries and crunchy toppings. It turned breakfast into a fun, interactive family tradition we still enjoy today.
Required Tools
You will need a mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, 4 glass jars or airtight containers, and a spoon for layering the oats and toppings.
Allergen Information
Toppings may contain nuts and dairy as well as gluten if regular oats are used. Choose seed alternatives and gluten-free oats for nut-free and gluten-free options. Always check labels.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of the base (excluding toppings) contains about 250 calories, 6 grams total fat, 38 grams carbohydrates, and 10 grams protein.
Save Overnight oats in jars make mornings effortless and nutritious. Just layer, chill, and enjoy whenever you need a quick, tasty meal.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → How long should the oats soak for best texture?
Allow the oats to soak in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or overnight to achieve a creamy and smooth texture.
- → Can I use plant-based milk and yogurt?
Yes, substituting dairy with plant-based milk and yogurt is perfect for vegan options without changing texture significantly.
- → What toppings work well with soaked oats?
Fresh or dried fruits, granola, nuts, nut butters, shredded coconut, and dark chocolate chips complement the creamy base well.
- → Is it necessary to stir before eating?
Stirring the oats before serving blends the toppings and can help incorporate extra milk for added creaminess, but some enjoy them layered straight from the jar.
- → How long can overnight oats be stored?
Properly refrigerated, they keep fresh and flavorful for up to 5 days, making them suitable for meal prepping.