Overnight Oats

Overnight Oats are as simple as combining oats, milk, yogurt, and your favorite mix-ins and then refrigerating overnight for an instant, no-cook, healthy, delicious breakfast!

Jars of Overnight Oats in 3 flavors with text overlay.


 

If you like oatmeal, you'll also want to try these Make-Ahead Freezer Steel Cut Oats, snackable, packable Oats & Honey Granola Bars, or easy Overnight Slow Cooker Apple Pie Steel Cut Oatmeal!

Have you tried Overnight Oats before? Over the past few years, we've become obsessed with them at our house!

Why Make Overnight Oats?

One of the best things about Overnight Oats is that they are so quick and effortless. It takes mere minutes to combine a few ingredients in a bowl or jar.

Just as importantly, they are filling and healthy to help power you through the morning.

And they taste good! You get to determine the flavor, of course. As far as texture, the closest thing to which I can compare Overnight Oats would be a thick, luxurious pudding. The oats soften and swell up and the whole mixture becomes thick and creamy. It's almost like eating dessert for breakfast, really.

As if this wasn't enough, you can jazz them up with just about any toppings or mix-ins you desire. Dress 'em up or down, make 'em sweet or savory...the possibilities are endless.

Finally, if you make them in a jar, they're even portable! They're ideal for taking to work and they're great for kids who need to eat breakfast or a hearty snack in the car.

Ingredients

Overnight Oats are basically a spin on healthy, no-cook oatmeal. In their simplest form, they're a combination of just THREE simple ingredients!

Basic ingredients to make Overnight Oats recipe, including rolled oats, yogurt, and milk.
  • Rolled oats. It's important to use rolled oats as opposed to quick oats. Since the oats soak over night, they soften and break down. Rolled oats maintain a bit of texture while quick oats turn to mush.
  • Milk. Customize this recipe by using your favorite kind of milk. Whole milk, skim milk, almond milk, oat milk...any type of milk works just dandy!
  • Yogurt. Again, use whatever type of yogurt you prefer. Regular yogurt or Greek yogurt...plain yogurt or vanilla yogurt or fruity yogurt...yogurt made with cow's milk or coconut yogurt or almond yogurt.

In addition to the basics, there are a variety of mix-ins and toppings you can use to jazz up your Overnight Oats. It goes without saying that the ultimate flavor of your breakfast will depend upon whichever extra ingredients you decide to add.

Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Options

In case you need a gluten-free breakfast, simply start with gluten-free rolled oats (and obviously, don't add any gluten-containing flavorings or add-ins).

Similarly, you can make Overnight Oats dairy-free by making them with dairy-free milk and yogurt, such as almond milk and coconut yogurt.

Close-up of jar topped with sliced bananas, peanut butter, and chopped peanuts.

How to Make Overnight Oats

One of my favorite things about Overnight Oats is that you can prep them before heading to bed.

  1. Simply combine regular rolled oats with your choice of yogurt and milk.
  2. If you want to get a little fancy, stir some add-ins into your basic mixture.
  3. Tightly cover your concoction and pop it in the fridge.

In the morning, your creamy, filling, wholesome breakfast will be ready and waiting!

The key is to mix your flavorings (flavored yogurts, sweeteners like maple syrup or jam, certain fruits, spices like cinnamon, etc.) into your oats and milk before refrigerating.

Save your toppings (nuts, fresh fruit, coconut, other garnishes) for the morning, just before you're ready to eat.

In this way, you can enjoy a breakfast with varying textures. And certain toppings that are intended to stay crunchy won't turn soggy!

Tweaking the Recipe

Once you make Overnight Oats a time or two, you'll get a sense for whether you prefer your oats creamier or drier (necessitating more or less milk and/or yogurt).

And of course, it's easy to tweak the sweetness of the recipe by using plain versus vanilla yogurt. Or you can always add a little honey, maple syrup, or agave as a natural sweetener.

With some experimentation, you'll figure out which ingredient combos really hit the spot! Everyone in your family might end up having a different favorite flavor, so let them all in on the fun. Kids will enjoy "cooking" these breakfasts as well!

Overnight Oats with coconut and almonds on top.

Hot or Cold?

Since you'll be popping your Overnight Oats in the fridge the night before, for the quickest breakfast, you can eat them cold.

And don't worry...it's totally safe to eat them cold. Don't be put off by the use of "raw" oats in this recipe. Soaking your oats overnight actually helps break down the starches and makes them easier to digest. They are also quite filling — you won't find yourself perusing the pantry for a snack an hour after eating Overnight Oats for breakfast!

That being said, you can totally heat them up in the microwave if you prefer warm oatmeal. Just be sure you're heating them up in a microwave-safe bowl or jar.

Aerial view of three Overnight Oats recipes lined up with different toppings.

Healthy Overnight Oats

Overnight Oats contain a multitude of nutrients as well as plenty of protein and fiber, both of which will keep you fuller, longer. Oats can also combat bloating.

When combined with other healthy ingredients such as fruit, low-fat milk, nuts, and yogurt, oats make up a balanced breakfast that keeps you satisfied all morning long. To boost the nutrition even more, you may add a teaspoon or two of chia seeds or flaxseeds to your mixture.

That being said, there are always ways to make just about any recipe unhealthy. For example, if you were to load up your oats with refined sugar, spoonfuls of chocolate, caramel, or basically treat the oats like a sundae...then yeah, they lose some of their nutritious properties. 😉

Overnight Oats recipe topped with raspberries, almonds, and Nutella.

Helpful Tips, Tricks, & Equipment

  • You've probably noticed that every photo you see for overnight oats has them in a glass jar. There's a reason for that (besides looking pretty). Jars are big enough and tall enough to not only allow the oats to soak properly, but also for you to be able to dig a spoon in in the morning and eat them right out of the container with ease. Plus, they have lids, meaning they stack and fit well in your fridge. And without the lids, they are microwave-safe! All of this adds up to less dishes to wash, and more grab-and-go convenience.
  • You certainly don't have to leave these in the fridge overnight to enjoy them. Three to four hours will do the trick. That way you can enjoy them anytime, day or night.
  • Measure out your ingredients...at least until you get familiar with the ratios. Sure, you can guesstimate how many raspberries you want to put on top, but you'll want to measure out the oats, milk, and yogurt. You could end up with either runny or dry oatmeal otherwise.
  • Don't skip the salt. I know, it sounds weird. But most baked goods call for salt (even desserts). It really enhances just about any flavor, and you only need a tiny bit. It won't taste salty — promise.
  • The type of oats you use does make a difference in this recipe. Use old-fashioned rolled oats rather than quick oats. Quick oats soak up moisture too...quickly. 🙂 The old-fashioned rolled oats just hold up better. You'll want a little texture in your oats and not just a bowl of mush.
Close-up of jar.

Flavor Ideas

I'll admit that the first time I made Overnight Oats, I went pretty basic with my recipe (as I tend to do with most new recipes I'm just trying out). And they were great!

I also quickly learned that I could achieve simple, effortless flavoring by stirring in a bit of fruit preserves or jam or even Blueberry Compote.

But soon enough, I decided to embark upon a little experimentation. I tried three combos: Peanut Butter Banana, Raspberry Nutella, and Coconut Almond. Then in the morning, my family and I had a little taste-test in an attempt to decide our favorite flavor. But we honestly couldn't agree on which one we liked the best, so I figured...why not give you all three options and let you choose?

Peanut Butter Banana

Option A is Peanut Butter Banana, and it's as easy as it sounds.

Simply mash a banana and stir it into your oat mixture along with a couple of tablespoons of peanut butter. Mix in a sprinkle of cinnamon, a pinch of salt, and a squeeze of honey, and you're good to go.

As you can see, I topped my jar of oats with an additional dollop of PB, some sliced bananas, and a few chopped peanuts, but you don't have to go to the trouble unless you want to...that was mainly for the photo op. Rumor has it that a few mini chocolate chips might be decadently delicious on this variation as well.

Aerial view of bowl showing how to make easy Overnight Oats.

Raspberry Nutella

Next up, we have a Raspberry Nutella flavor.

Again, it's perfectly straightforward with additions of (wait for it!) raspberries and Nutella.

In the morning, I added extra raspberries on top as well as some toasted, sliced almonds for crunch, but just about any nut would be tasty.

Overnight Oat recipes with berries.

Coconut Almond

My final Overnight Oats inspiration to get you started is Coconut Almond.

This variation actually gets a bit thicker than the others thanks to the coconut, so feel free to thin it out with a splash of extra milk, if you wish.

I chose to use coconut milk in this one to make it even more coconutty, as well as vanilla yogurt instead of plain.

Then I topped it with more coconut and a handful of crunchy almonds.

And by the way, if you decide to add chocolate chips to this one, you could just go ahead and call it Almond Joy Overnight Oats. Mmm-mmm-MMMM!

How to make Overnight Oats in bowl topped with coconut and almonds.

So have I convinced you to give Overnight Oats a spin?

They're my favorite grab-and-go breakfast, and the kids love having a variety of flavors from which to choose.

They're easy and make-ahead, they're healthy and filling, and even picky kids love 'em.

What more can you ask of a way to start your morning? 🙂

More Wholesome Breakfast Recipes with Oats

Aerial view of garnished jars of Overnight Oats.

Overnight Oats

Creamy, wholesome Overnight Oats are as simple as refrigerating oats, milk, yogurt, and your favorite flavors overnight for an instant, no-cook breakfast. Try them in three yummy flavor options: Peanut Butter Banana, Raspberry Nutella, and Coconut Almond!
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Minimum Time to Chill: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 1 serving
Calories: 201kcal
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Ingredients

Peanut Butter Banana

  • cup rolled oats
  • cup milk
  • cup plain yogurt
  • ½ cup mashed banana, approximately 1 large banana
  • 2 tablespoons peanut butter, smooth or crunchy
  • 1 teaspoon honey, more or less to taste
  • teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional Toppings: banana slices, dollop of PB, chopped peanuts, mini chocolate chips

Raspberry Nutella

  • cup rolled oats
  • cup milk
  • cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons Nutella
  • Pinch of salt
  • ½ cup raspberries
  • Optional Toppings: additional raspberries, drizzle of Nutella, toasted almond slices or other nuts

Coconut Almond

  • cup rolled oats
  • cup coconut milk
  • cup vanilla yogurt
  • ¼ cup shredded coconut
  • teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional Toppings: additional shredded coconut, ¼ cup toasted almond slices, mini chocolate chips

Instructions

  • In a bowl or a jar, mix together oats, milk, and yogurt. Stir in any additional ingredients and flavorings (but not the toppings). Cover and refrigerate for at least four hours and up to overnight. Before serving, garnish with desired toppings.

Video

Notes

  • The Nutrition Facts below have been calculated for one serving of plain Overnight Oats without add-ins or toppings.
  • You may use your favorite type of milk in Overnight Oats. You may use regular or Greek yogurt, but if using Greek, it might be necessary to add a bit more milk to thin it out. You may use plain or vanilla yogurt. Honey or maple syrup may be used to sweeten the oats to taste, if you wish.
  • For the Coconut Almond variation, I use the type of coconut milk that is sold in a carton in the refrigerated section (near the soy milk, etc.). Canned coconut milk would also work but will make for richer/more decadent oatmeal.
  • For the Raspberry Nutella version, I don't stir in the raspberries at the same time as the oats and other ingredients, so as not to break them up. Rather, I just pile them on top of the oats and then gently stir them in before serving.
  • To boost the nutrition even more, you may add a teaspoon or two of chia seeds or flaxseeds to your oat mixture.
  • I don't recommend using quick oats as they will get too mushy. Steel cut oats are not recommended either, as they won't soften adequately.

Nutrition

Calories: 201kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 18mg | Sodium: 74mg | Potassium: 331mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 215IU | Calcium: 205mg | Iron: 1.2mg
Made this recipe? I'd love to see on IG!Mention @FiveHeartHome or tag #FiveHeartHome!

Post originally published on April 9, 2015, and updated on March 19, 2019, February 23, 2020, February 11, 2021, and June 20, 2023.

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32 Comments

  1. 5 stars
    O, I'm dying to try this, but as a night owl I have to ask ... will the overnight oats last a second night if I sleep in and have to skip breakfast? 🙂

    1. Ha ha, Cindy...we've let Overnight Oats go two nights and they're just a bit more broken down the second morning. So as long as you don't mind a softer texture, yep, should totally work for your night owl ways! 😉

    1. So glad you enjoy these, Ashley! I think frozen raspberries would work just fine, but they'll probably turn a bit mushy after they thaw. So as long as that texture wouldn't bother you, go for it! 🙂

  2. I made the nutella ones with long life coconut milk, nudie coconut yoghurt and Sweet William chocolate spread. I topped with chocolate spread, raspberries, shredded coconut, flaked almonds and some raw almonds.

  3. I cannot stop making the peanut butter version of this. I use 1/2 cup of oats and the same measurements for everything else. So good!!! And my kids love it too. I love that I can fix it while I'm also making dinner and breakfast is covered.

    1. I'm so happy to hear that this recipe is a hit at your house, Stacy! And I totally agree...the peanut butter version is definitely addictive, and it's so nice having breakfast already made when you wake up. 🙂 Thanks for taking the time to comment and I hope you have a great weekend!

      1. I just made the nutella but substituted with strawberries because I didn't have raspberries. Has anyone asked you what the 21 Day Fix container breakdown would be on this?? Thank you!

        1. Oooo, I bet strawberries + Nutella was just as yummy as raspberries, Carolyn! I'm sorry that I don't know anything about the 21 Day Fix...hopefully somebody else can help you with the info you need. 🙂 Hope your 2106 is off to a great start!

  4. Hi! I love the idea of these recipes, can't wait to try them out. I wanted to ask if you can also warm or heat them up in the morning?

    1. Hi Daybelis! I think most people eat Overnight Oats straight out of the fridge, but I don't see why you couldn't warm them up if you like. Try it both ways and see which one you prefer...enjoy! 🙂

  5. I tried these 3 recipes the past three days and I am in love with overnight oats! The raspberry Nutella is my fav - but all 3 are awesome. Thanks so much for sharing! Have a happy day!

    1. You're very welcome, Linda! I'm so glad that you discovered overnight oats and enjoyed these variations! I have a special place in my heart for that Raspberry Nutella one, too... 😉 Thanks for taking the time to comment and I hope you have a wonderful weekend!

    1. Hi Kenny! I apologize for my delayed reply...I've been out of the country. Hopefully you already figured it out, but no, you do not need to cook the oats first. You just combine them raw with the other ingredients and they soften overnight. Hope you enjoy(ed) these if you have(had) a chance to try them!

  6. I really enjoy your blog. I just found you recently and I love your recipes. I have tried OO and I like them. Can I make a "batch" and have them for several days or do they not hold up well for more than one night in the frig?

    I also love that you put them in mason jars - cute idea!! Your flavor combinations look good too, I can't wait to try them.

    1. Hi Beth! Thanks so much for your sweet words about my blog! Personally, I still enjoy overnight oats after they've been in the fridge for more than one night. They do get softer with time, so I think it's just a matter of personal preference. But I've made a big batch and eaten on it for three days or so...it just depends on your preferred texture, as the texture does change a bit with time. 🙂 Hope you enjoy these OOs when you give them a try!

  7. OH.MY.GOODNESS! I'm freaking out of your glorious flavor combos. ;-} I already love overnight oatmeal cups...and you pushed that idea to the max with these flavors. Gotta make some soon. Thanks so much for sharing with us at Weekend Potluck!!!

    1. Thanks so much, Marsha! I think I'm probably the last one on the Overnight Oats train...but now that I've tried them, I'm definitely a fan. 🙂 Hope you enjoy these new flavor combos, and hope you're having a great week!

  8. I've seen a dozen recipes for overnight oats, but I just don't understand - do you eat this cold? I love oatmeal, but I've never eaten it cold - it's a little scary to me! help!

    1. It does sound a little strange, BC, and I wondered the same thing before I tried it! Yes, you eat Overnight Oats cold. But it's almost like eating creamy pudding...not like eating regular cooked oatmeal that's gotten cold and lumpy. 😉 That being said, I think you could totally heat it in the microwave in the morning, if that's your preference. Hope you enjoy it if you decide to give it a try!

      1. I will definitely give it a try - thanks so much for your quick reply - I love your site and recipes 🙂

  9. If I don't like traditional oats (I prefer steel cut for a raw, crunchy meal) will I hate this too? I'd hate to try and not be able to gag them down if they are the constancy of regular oatmeal. Could I do it using steel cut? Would the steal cut end up like regular oats if it sat overnight? Please some one with experience tell me!! 🙂

    1. Hi Miranda! I would say that these Overnight Oats do have the consistency of regular oatmeal, although perhaps a little bit creamier. You could always try making a tiny batch -- like 1 tablespoon regular oats + 1 tablespoon yogurt + 1 tablespoon milk -- just to gauge whether or not you'd like the consistency without wasting a bunch of ingredients. You might end up liking steel-cut oats in this recipe, however, if you like crunchy oatmeal. I don't think they'd soften to the same point as regular oats, but I can't say for sure. Again, you could always try a mini batch to see how much they soften. 🙂 Sorry I can't be of more help...good luck if you decide to try them!

  10. Samantha,

    Just a note to say your blog is so well done! Your photography is beautiful. Your recipes look, sound and the ones I've tried taste phenomenal! I love hearing and seeing the tidbits about your beautiful family (without being overwhelmed in the minutiae) haha!
    I love reading about other Texans ⭐️ Job well done!

    I have a lot of food allergies and sensitities, so I adapt some of your recipes for me, others I just cook for family and friends.
    Keep up the great work.
    Lee Ann
    P.S. Your overnight oats are beautiful! I would make mine glutenfree & with almond milk!

    1. What a sweet comment, Lee Ann...thank you! Your note totally made me smile. 🙂 I'm so happy to hear that you enjoy my blog and my recipes, and I appreciate your kind words about my photography. I have a lot to learn but I strive to get a little better each day. 😉 And I'm glad that you're able to adapt a lot of my recipes to be gluten-free so that you can enjoy them as well! Thanks again for taking the time to comment...I really appreciate my regular, longtime readers, and yay for fellow Texans! 🙂 Hope you have a wonderful weekend!

    1. You are too sweet, Gina. I wasn't sure how I was going to make oats look pretty -- ha! 😉 Hope your kids enjoy these if you have a chance to make them. Have a great weekend, friend!

  11. I love overnight oats! I haven't had them in forever! Can't wait to try your coconut almond version 🙂

    1. I wish I would have discovered them sooner, Megan...where in the world have I been?! 😉 I hope you love this coconut almond variation if you have a chance to try it. 🙂 Happy Friday!