Pin Recipe Creamy, customizable overnight oats layered in jars promise a satisfying breakfast that’s easy for meal prep and looks picture-perfect for social feeds. Simply mix up the oat base, add your favorite toppings, chill overnight, and wake up to a nutritious meal.
I first tried overnight oats during a busy week and was amazed by how simple, filling, and delicious they were. They instantly became my breakfast solution, especially since everyone in my family could choose their favorite toppings.
Ingredients
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: 2 cups
- Milk (dairy or plant-based): 2 cups
- Plain Greek yogurt (or plant-based yogurt for vegan): 1 cup
- Chia seeds: 2 tbsp
- Maple syrup or honey: 2 tbsp
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Salt: Pinch
- Toppings (choose or mix and match): 1/2 cup fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), 1 medium banana sliced, 1/4 cup granola, 2 tbsp shredded coconut, 2 tbsp nut butter (peanut, almond, or sunflower seed), 2 tbsp chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans), 2 tbsp dark chocolate chips, 2 tbsp dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, apricots)
Instructions
- Mix Base:
- In a large bowl, combine oats, milk, yogurt, chia seeds, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until well combined.
- Divide Mixture:
- Divide the oat mixture evenly among 4 clean jars or containers (about 3/4 cup per jar).
- Add Toppings:
- Add your choice of toppings to each jar. For example: Jar 1: mixed berries + granola, Jar 2: sliced banana + peanut butter + chopped nuts, Jar 3: shredded coconut + dried cranberries + dark chocolate chips, Jar 4: fresh strawberries + almond butter.
- Chill Overnight:
- Seal the jars with lids and refrigerate overnight (at least 8 hours).
- Serve:
- In the morning, stir the contents, add extra milk if desired for creaminess, and enjoy directly from the jar or transfer to a bowl.
Pin Recipe My kids love helping layer all the toppings in their jars and picking their favorites. Sharing these breakfast jars together always makes our mornings feel extra special.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, 4 glass jars or airtight containers, spoon
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (yogurt, milk) and nuts if used in toppings. For nut-free, use seed alternatives instead. Contains gluten if regular oats are used—choose gluten-free oats if needed.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (base only): Calories: 250, Total Fat: 6 g, Carbohydrates: 38 g, Protein: 10 g
Pin Recipe With overnight oats in jars, every morning can start with a quick, nourishing breakfast. Make it your own with new flavors and enjoy convenient meals all week long.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use plant-based milk and yogurt?
Yes, plant-based milk and yogurt work well and keep this option vegan-friendly.
- → How long should the oats chill?
At least 8 hours or overnight to allow the oats to fully absorb the liquids and soften.
- → What toppings pair best with these oats?
Fresh berries, sliced bananas, nuts, shredded coconut, nut butters, and dark chocolate chips complement the creamy base.
- → Can I prepare jars in advance?
Yes, prepping jars ahead saves time and keeps breakfasts ready for up to 5 days refrigerated.
- → Is it easy to customize flavors?
Absolutely, you can mix and match toppings or add seasonal fruits and spices for variety.