How to Make Overnight Oats

Ingredients

• 1 cup quick cooking oats (rolled oats work too)
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 cup milk, any kind (we used unsweetened almond milk)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey)
• 2 tablespoons peanut butter
• 1 tablespoon chopped peanuts
• 1 tablespoon mini chocolate chips
• Optional: 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons preserves
• ¼ cup chocolate protein powder
• 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips
• ¼ cup milk (or more, to taste)
• 1/2 cup fresh blueberries (mashed)
• 2 teaspoons lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Replace 1/2 cup of the almond milk with brewed coffee or bold brew
• 1/2 cup shredded apple
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons slivered almonds
• 1 medium banana (mashed)
• 4 medium strawberries (diced)
• 1 medium banana (cut into slices (or mashed))
• 2-4 vanilla wafer cookies (crushed)

Steps

1. 1

   In a large jar or bowl, combine the quick cooking oats, chia seeds, Greek yogurt, milk, vanilla extract, and maple syrup. Stir until fully combined; the mixture will look thin at first, but the oats and chia seeds will thicken it as they chill.

2. 2

   If you're making a flavor variation, stir in that flavor's mix-ins now (fruit, protein powder, nut butter, or spices) so they have all night to meld with the base. Hold off on crunchy add-ins like nuts, granola, or cookie crumbles until morning so they stay crisp instead of going soft.

3. 3

   Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight (preferred). The oats should be thick and creamy when they're ready, not soupy or watery.

4. 4

   When you're ready to eat, stir your overnight oats well. If they're thicker than you'd like, add a splash of milk and stir again to loosen them up.

5. 5

   Add the crunchy toppings you held back, then enjoy cold. If you prefer warm oats, microwave your serving for 30-60 seconds before topping and eating.