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overnight oats recipe

Overnight Oats Recipe

This overnight oats recipe combines rolled oats, milk, yogurt, chia seeds, and natural sweeteners to create a creamy, make-ahead breakfast. The oats soften overnight in the refrigerator, resulting in a smooth and satisfying texture. It is versatile, nutritious, and easy to customize with toppings.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Chill time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup rolled oats 100 g
  • 1 cup milk 240 ml, dairy or plant-based
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt 120 g
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds 12 g
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey 15 ml
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 2.5 ml
  • 1/8 teaspoon fine salt
  • Optional toppings: fresh fruit nuts, nut butter, seeds, granola

Equipment

  • Jar or container with lid
  • Spoon
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. First, choose a clean jar or container with a secure lid. Then, make sure the container holds at least 500 ml so the oats have enough room to expand as they absorb the liquid. This prevents overflow and ensures even hydration.
  2. Next, add the rolled oats to the container. Spread them evenly across the bottom so they form a flat layer. This helps the liquid distribute more evenly during soaking.
  3. After that, pour in the milk slowly. Then, stir gently with a spoon so every oat becomes lightly coated. This initial mixing prevents dry pockets later.
  4. Next, add the Greek yogurt. Stir thoroughly until the yogurt dissolves completely into the milk. This step is important because it creates a creamy base and improves the final texture.
  5. Then, sprinkle in the chia seeds. Stir immediately so they disperse evenly instead of clumping together. Chia seeds will thicken the mixture overnight, so even distribution makes a noticeable difference.
  6. Afterward, add the maple syrup or honey. Then, add the vanilla extract and salt. Stir again carefully, scraping the sides and bottom to ensure everything combines evenly.
  7. At this stage, observe the mixture. It should look loose and fluid, not thick. If it already looks thick, add 1–2 tablespoons of extra milk. Proper hydration ensures the oats soften fully overnight.
  8. Next, seal the container tightly with its lid. Then, place it in the refrigerator. Leave it undisturbed for at least 6 hours, although overnight soaking produces the best texture.
  9. Meanwhile, avoid opening or stirring during the soaking period. The oats need uninterrupted time to absorb liquid evenly.
  10. The next morning, remove the container from the refrigerator. Then, open the lid and stir the oats gently. At this point, the mixture should look creamy, thick, and fully hydrated.
  11. If the oats feel too thick, add 1–2 tablespoons of milk and stir until smooth. If they feel too thin, stir and allow them to sit for 5 minutes so they thicken naturally.
  12. Finally, add your preferred toppings such as fruit, nuts, or nut butter. Serve immediately while cold, or allow the oats to sit at room temperature for 5 minutes if you prefer a slightly softer texture.

Notes

Use rolled oats, not quick oats, for the best texture. Quick oats soften too much and become mushy.
If the mixture looks too thick in the morning, stir in a small splash of milk. This adjustment improves consistency immediately.
Greek yogurt adds noticeable creaminess and protein, so avoid skipping it unless substituting with another thick yogurt.
Chia seeds thicken slowly, so stir well before chilling to prevent clumps.