This Classic Overnight Oats recipe is my go-to for a simple, nourishing, and versatile breakfast. With just a few ingredients and almost no prep time, I can have a ready-to-eat breakfast waiting in the fridge every morning. It’s naturally gluten-free, vegan, and nut-free, making it a staple for anyone looking to simplify their mornings without compromising on health or taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s truly effortless. I just mix the ingredients the night before and wake up to a creamy, flavorful bowl of oats ready to go. It’s ideal for busy mornings when I want something filling and satisfying without cooking. Plus, it’s easily customizable—I can change the toppings or the milk to suit whatever mood I’m in. It’s affordable, adaptable, and perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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gluten-free rolled oats
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non-dairy milk or milk of choice
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chia seeds
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cinnamon
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vanilla extract (optional, but I love the extra flavor)
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toppings of choice: nut butter, granola, coconut flakes, fruit, or anything I have on hand
Directions
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In a mason jar or any airtight container, I combine all the ingredients except the toppings.
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I stir everything together thoroughly to make sure the chia seeds and oats are well mixed.
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I let the jar sit in the fridge for at least 2-3 hours, but I usually leave it overnight.
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When I’m ready to eat, I top it with whatever I’m craving—sometimes nut butter, other times fruit or granola.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 1 serving.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Chill time: 2–3 hours or overnight
Total time: About 3 hours (with chilling)
Variations
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Different milk options: I often use almond, oat, or coconut milk depending on what I have.
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Boost the protein: I sometimes add a scoop of protein powder or a spoonful of nut butter.
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Add-ins: Flaxseeds, hemp seeds, or even a few chopped nuts give it more texture.
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Fruit: I love switching up fresh or frozen fruit—blueberries, banana slices, or apples work great.
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Sweeteners: If I want a sweeter version, I’ll add a drizzle of maple syrup or a touch of honey.
Storage/Reheating
I usually prepare 3–5 servings at once and keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days. I store each portion in its own jar or container for easy grab-and-go mornings. I typically eat them cold or at room temperature, but if I feel like something warm, I gently heat them in the microwave for about 30–60 seconds, stirring halfway through.
FAQs
How long do overnight oats last in the fridge?
They usually stay fresh for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container. I like to prep a batch on Sunday for the entire workweek.
Can I warm up overnight oats?
Yes, I often heat mine in the microwave for about 30–60 seconds if I’m craving something warm. I just make sure to stir halfway through.
Do I have to use chia seeds?
No, but I like how they help thicken the oats and add fiber. If I don’t have chia, I sometimes use ground flaxseeds instead.
Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
Steel-cut oats won’t soften as well overnight. I prefer rolled oats for the perfect creamy texture.
What are the best toppings for overnight oats?
My favorite toppings include nut butter, fresh or frozen berries, granola, coconut flakes, and banana slices. But I mix it up based on what I have on hand.
Conclusion
These Classic Overnight Oats are a lifesaver for my busy mornings. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always satisfying. Whether I’m rushing out the door or taking my time at home, I can count on this breakfast to keep me full and energized. It’s a recipe I’ll keep coming back to week after week.
Print
Classic Overnight Oats: The Breakfast Staple
- Total Time: About 5 minutes active, + chill time
- Yield: 1 serving
Description
Classic Overnight Oats is an effortless, nourishing breakfast—made with gluten-free rolled oats, dairy- or plant-based milk, and chia seeds—ready in the fridge by morning. Naturally gluten-free, vegan-friendly, and customizable.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup gluten-free rolled oats
- 1/2 cup non-dairy milk (or milk of choice)
- 1 tbsp chia seeds (optional, for extra creaminess and fiber)
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt (enhances flavor)
- Toppings of choice: fruit, granola, nut butter, coconut flakes, seeds, etc.
Instructions
- In a jar or airtight container, combine oats, milk, chia seeds, cinnamon, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to mix.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours, but ideally overnight.
- In the morning, give it a stir and adjust texture if needed—add more milk if too thick.
- Add desired toppings just before eating to preserve texture.
Notes
- Use a 1:1 ratio of oats to liquid for creamy yet spoonable consistency; adjust based on your preference—less liquid for thicker texture, more for runnier. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
- Chia seeds enhance creaminess and fiber while thickening; if using, increase liquid slightly. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
- Always use old-fashioned rolled oats—they achieve the ideal texture. Steel-cut stay too firm, while quick oats often disintegrate. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
- Store overnight oats in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4–5 days; texture changes gradually but remains safe and tasty. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
- Add crunch (nuts, granola) or rheological-sensitive ingredients (fruit) just before serving to keep them fresh and crisp. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
- Even a small pinch of salt—though in a sweet breakfast—enhances the overall flavor. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: undefined
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook, Refrigerator Prep
- Cuisine: Variably Gluten-Free / Vegan-Friendly
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 jar
- Calories: 220 (approx.)
- Sugar: 3g (without sweetener/toppings)
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: undefined
- Trans Fat: undefined
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
