Dessert

Healthy Overnight Oats Recipe (+ 8 Flavor Variations) Recipe

ByHugo Harnd December 20, 2025December 20, 2025

Introduction

Overnight oats are a quick, nutritious, and versatile breakfast option that can be prepared the night before. This healthy overnight oats recipe offers a creamy base with plenty of room for delicious flavor variations, perfect for starting your day energized and satisfied.

Eight clear glass jars filled with layered overnight oats sit on a white marbled texture surface scattered with oats. The top row has Snickers with a light oat base topped with peanut butter, cashews, and chocolate chips; Banana Cream Pie with a creamy oat base, banana slices, crumbled pie crust, and a vanilla wafer cookie; Strawberry Banana with creamy oats topped with fresh strawberry halves and banana slices; and Chocolate Protein with a chocolate oat base, cocoa powder, and mini chocolate chips. The middle row shows PB & J with white oats topped with a thick layer of peanut butter and red jelly; Apple Pie with oats topped by sliced almonds, apple slices, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. The bottom row includes Latte with a brown oat base topped with coffee beans and white chocolate chips; Lemon Blueberry with light oats topped by fresh blueberries and lemon zest. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup quick cooking oats (rolled oats work too)
1 tablespoon chia seeds
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
1 cup milk, any kind (unsweetened almond milk recommended)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
2 tablespoons peanut butter
1 tablespoon chopped peanuts
1 tablespoon mini chocolate chips
1 medium banana, sliced
2-4 vanilla wafer cookies, crushed

Instructions

Step 1: In a large container, combine the oats, chia seeds, Greek yogurt, milk, vanilla extract, maple syrup, and peanut butter. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
Step 2: Add the chopped peanuts, mini chocolate chips, sliced banana, and crushed vanilla wafers. Mix gently to incorporate these ingredients evenly.
Step 3: Cover the container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the oats to soften and flavors to meld.
Step 4: When ready to serve, stir the overnight oats. Add more milk if you prefer a thinner consistency.
Step 5: Top with additional nuts, chocolate chips, or fresh fruit if desired, and enjoy your cold, creamy breakfast.

Tips & Variations

For a strawberry banana twist, add sliced strawberries, mashed banana, and a bit of chocolate protein powder for extra flavor and protein.
Try adding cinnamon and slivered almonds with shredded apple for a warm, spiced variation.
Swap half of the milk with brewed coffee to create a bold, energizing coffee-flavored oat breakfast.
Mix in preserves or swap peanut butter for almond butter to explore different nutty tastes.
Adjust sweetness by increasing or reducing the amount of maple syrup or honey based on your preference.

Storage

Store overnight oats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the oats thicken too much upon sitting, simply stir in a splash of milk before serving. They are best enjoyed cold but can also be warmed slightly in the microwave if preferred.