Save Creamy, customizable overnight oats layered in jars with delicious toppings—ideal for meal prep and Instagram-worthy breakfasts.
I first discovered how easy overnight oats could make my mornings when I began searching for healthy, high-fiber options that didn't require any breakfast rush. Preparing a few jars ahead means my family wakes up to a wholesome meal, and we love choosing different toppings each day.
Ingredients
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: 2 cups
- Milk (dairy or plant-based): 2 cups
- Plain Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt: 1 cup
- Chia seeds: 2 tbsp
- Maple syrup or honey: 2 tbsp
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Salt: Pinch
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries): 1/2 cup
- Banana, sliced: 1 medium
- Granola: 1/4 cup
- 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): 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Combine base ingredients:
- In a large bowl, mix oats, milk, yogurt, chia seeds, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well combined.
- Divide into jars:
- Spoon the oat mixture evenly into 4 clean jars or containers (about 3/4 cup per jar).
- Add toppings:
- Add your choice of toppings to each jar, such as berries, granola, banana, nut butter, nuts, coconut, chocolate chips, or dried fruit.
- Seal and refrigerate:
- Place lids on the jars and refrigerate overnight (at least 8 hours).
- Serve:
- In the morning, stir contents, add extra milk if desired, and enjoy straight from the jar or transfer to a bowl.
Save My kids love helping layer the jars on Sunday night, making this recipe as much a family tradition as a breakfast staple. Choosing favorites together each week brings fun and excitement to an otherwise ordinary morning meal.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, 4 glass jars or airtight containers, and a spoon are all you need for perfectly portioned oats.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (yogurt, milk) and nuts if used in toppings. For nut-free, skip nut butters/nuts and use seed alternatives. Gluten-free if certified gluten-free oats are chosen.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of oats (base only) contains 250 calories, 6 g total fat, 38 g carbohydrates, and 10 g protein. Toppings add additional nutrition.
Save Try mixing different layer combos for each jar and surprise yourself every morning. Meal prep breakfast has never looked (or tasted) more delicious.
Recipe FAQs
- → How long should the oats chill before serving?
Chill the jars overnight for at least 8 hours to allow the oats and chia seeds to absorb liquids and soften.
- → Can I use plant-based milk and yogurt?
Yes, plant-based milk and yogurt work well for a vegan-friendly and dairy-free version.
- → What toppings work best with these oats?
Fresh berries, sliced bananas, nuts, shredded coconut, dark chocolate chips, and dried fruits all add great flavor and texture.
- → How should I store the prepared jars?
Seal jars tightly and refrigerate. They can be stored for up to 5 days for convenient grab-and-go breakfasts.
- → Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free rolled oats to ensure the dish remains gluten-free.
- → Can I adjust the sweetness level?
Absolutely, adjust maple syrup or honey amounts to suit your taste or omit if preferred.