Save Creamy and customizable overnight oats are layered in jars and finished with delicious toppings. They are ideal for meal prep and make for Instagram-worthy breakfasts.
I first tried making overnight oats during a hectic work week and was amazed at how it made my mornings smoother. Preparing several jars at once helped save time and gave everyone a tasty and healthy breakfast option.
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: 1/2 cup (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Banana: 1 medium, sliced
- Granola: 1/4 cup
- Shredded coconut: 2 tbsp
- Nut butter: 2 tbsp (peanut, almond, or sunflower seed)
- Chopped nuts: 2 tbsp (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
- Dark chocolate chips: 2 tbsp
- Dried fruit: 2 tbsp (raisins, cranberries, apricots)
Instructions
- Combine base ingredients:
- In a large bowl, stir together oats, milk, yogurt, chia seeds, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- Divide into jars:
- Portion the oat mixture evenly into 4 clean jars (about 3/4 cup per jar).
- Add toppings:
- Top each jar with your chosen toppings such as berries, granola, banana, nut butter, nuts, coconut, chocolate chips, or dried fruit.
- Seal and chill:
- Seal jars with lids and refrigerate overnight (at least 8 hours).
- Serve:
- In the morning, stir contents, add extra milk for creaminess if desired, and enjoy from the jar or transfer to a bowl.
Save During weekends, our family personalizes each oat jar with favorite toppings, and it is always fun to see everyone's creations lined up in the fridge. These jars are also popular for taking breakfast on the go for school or work.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, 4 glass jars or airtight containers, spoon
Allergen Information
Contains dairy and nuts if used. For nut-free, choose seed alternatives and for gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats. Always check product labels.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (base only): 250 calories, 6 g fat, 38 g carbohydrates, 10 g protein. Toppings will add extra nutrition.
Save Overnight oats in jars make busy mornings a breeze and offer endless flavor possibilities. Enjoy creating your favorite combinations!
Kitchen Tips & Answers
- → Can I use plant-based milk and yogurt?
Yes, swapping dairy for plant-based alternatives works well and keeps it vegan-friendly.
- → How long should the oats soak?
Soaking for at least 8 hours (overnight) ensures the oats soften and absorb flavors fully.
- → What are some popular topping combinations?
Try mixed berries with granola, banana with nut butter and nuts, or shredded coconut with dried fruit and dark chocolate chips.
- → Can these be prepared ahead for busy mornings?
Absolutely, storing jars in the fridge keeps them fresh up to 5 days for grab-and-go meals.
- → Are gluten-free oats an option?
Yes, certified gluten-free oats can be used to accommodate gluten sensitivities.