Overnight Oats with Simple Ingredients

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Discover the simplicity and convenience of Overnight Oats, a nutritious breakfast option that you can prepare in advance.

Olivia Hayes

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-02T01:10:10.582Z

Overnight oats are a fantastic meal prep solution that allows you to enjoy a nutritious breakfast without the morning hassle. Just mix simple ingredients the night before, and wake up to a delicious and wholesome meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy mornings
  • Customizable with your favorite toppings and flavors
  • Healthy and filling, keeping you satisfied until lunch

The Benefits of Overnight Oats

Overnight oats are not just a trendy breakfast; they are a smart choice for anyone looking to streamline their morning routine. By preparing your breakfast the night before, you save time and reduce stress in the morning. Simply grab a jar from the fridge, and you have a nutritious meal ready to go, making them perfect for busy individuals or families.

Beyond convenience, overnight oats are packed with nutrients. Rolled oats are a great source of whole grains, fiber, and essential vitamins. They help to keep your digestive system healthy and can contribute to a feeling of fullness, preventing mid-morning snacking. Paired with milk or a plant-based alternative, you also get a boost of protein and calcium.

Customization is another significant advantage of this recipe. Whether you have a sweet tooth or prefer something savory, overnight oats can easily adapt to your flavor preferences. Add your favorite fruits, nuts, or spices to create a breakfast that excites your taste buds while meeting your nutritional needs.

How to Customize Your Overnight Oats

One of the best things about overnight oats is their versatility. You can easily modify the base ingredients or toppings to suit your dietary needs or taste preferences. For a creamier texture, consider using yogurt or a thicker plant-based milk like coconut or oat milk. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, skim milk or unsweetened almond milk are excellent choices.

When it comes to toppings, the possibilities are endless! Fresh fruits like bananas, strawberries, or blueberries can add natural sweetness and vibrant color. For a satisfying crunch, sprinkle in some nuts or seeds, such as almonds, chia seeds, or walnuts. You can even introduce spices like cinnamon or cocoa powder for added depth of flavor.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors as well. Try adding a tablespoon of peanut butter or almond butter for richness, or mix in a scoop of protein powder for an extra nutritional punch. The beauty of overnight oats lies in their adaptability, making it easy to switch up your meals throughout the week without getting bored.

Ingredients

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 2 cups milk (or plant-based milk)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Toppings (optional)

  • Fresh fruits (bananas, berries, etc.)
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Cinnamon or cocoa powder

Feel free to mix and match your favorite ingredients!

Instructions

Instructions

Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, milk, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until well mixed.

Prepare for Refrigeration

Divide the mixture into two jars or containers. If desired, add your chosen toppings on top.

Refrigerate Overnight

Cover the jars and refrigerate overnight (or for at least 4 hours) to allow the oats to soak up the liquid.

Serve and Enjoy

In the morning, give the oats a good stir, add more toppings if desired, and enjoy your ready-to-eat breakfast!

This recipe is perfect for meal prep and can easily be doubled for the whole week!

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

To make the most of your overnight oats, consider preparing multiple jars at once. You can create a variety of flavors and toppings to keep your breakfast exciting throughout the week. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and they will last up to five days, ensuring a quick and healthy breakfast option every morning.

If you are planning to add toppings like fresh fruits, consider adding them just before serving to maintain their texture and freshness. Some toppings, such as nuts or seeds, can be added in advance without compromising quality. This way, you can enjoy the best of both worlds—convenience and taste!

Nutritional Information

Overnight oats are not only delicious but also nutritious. A typical serving can provide a balanced mix of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, making them an ideal breakfast choice. Depending on your choice of milk and toppings, a serving could contain around 300-400 calories, making it a filling option that keeps you energized through the morning.

By incorporating fruits and nuts, you can enhance the vitamin and mineral content of your overnight oats. For example, berries are rich in antioxidants, while nuts provide healthy fats and protein. This combination helps support overall health and well-being, making overnight oats a smart addition to your diet.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but the texture will be softer. Rolled oats are recommended for a chewier consistency.

→ How long can I keep overnight oats in the refrigerator?

Overnight oats can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I make these vegan?

Absolutely! Simply use plant-based milk and a vegan sweetener like maple syrup.

→ What are some good topping ideas?

Some popular toppings include nuts, seeds, fresh fruits, nut butter, and coconut flakes.

Overnight Oats with Simple Ingredients

Discover the simplicity and convenience of Overnight Oats, a nutritious breakfast option that you can prepare in advance.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration0 minutes
Overall Time10 minutes

Created by: Olivia Hayes

Recipe Type: Healthy & Light

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 2 servings

What You'll Need

Base Ingredients

  1. 1 cup rolled oats
  2. 2 cups milk (or plant-based milk)
  3. 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  4. 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Toppings (optional)

  1. Fresh fruits (bananas, berries, etc.)
  2. Nuts and seeds
  3. Cinnamon or cocoa powder

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, milk, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until well mixed.

Step 02

Divide the mixture into two jars or containers. If desired, add your chosen toppings on top.

Step 03

Cover the jars and refrigerate overnight (or for at least 4 hours) to allow the oats to soak up the liquid.

Step 04

In the morning, give the oats a good stir, add more toppings if desired, and enjoy your ready-to-eat breakfast!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 200 kcal
  • Total Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Dietary Fiber: 5g
  • Sugars: 8g
  • Protein: 8g