Save to Pinterest Creamy, customizable overnight oats layered in jars with delicious toppings—ideal for meal prep and Instagram-worthy breakfasts.
I started making overnight oats in jars a few years ago, and they quickly became my go-to for a quick, filling, and nutritious breakfast. They're especially handy for busy weeks when I want something ready to grab in the morning.
Ingredients
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: 2 cups
- Milk (dairy or plant-based): 2 cups
- Plain Greek yogurt (or plant-based yogurt for vegan): 1 cup
- Chia seeds: 2 tbsp
- Maple syrup or honey: 2 tbsp
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Pinch of salt: to taste
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries): 1/2 cup
- Banana, sliced: 1 medium
- Granola: 1/4 cup
- Shredded coconut: 2 tbsp
- Nut butter (peanut, almond, or sunflower seed): 2 tbsp
- Chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans): 2 tbsp
- Dark chocolate chips: 2 tbsp
- Dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, apricots): 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Combine ingredients:
- In a large bowl, mix oats, milk, yogurt, chia seeds, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well combined.
- Divide into jars:
- Spoon the oat mixture evenly into 4 clean jars or containers (about 3/4 cup per jar).
- Add toppings:
- Layer your favorite toppings into each jar. For example, Jar 1: mixed berries and granola, Jar 2: sliced banana, peanut butter, and chopped nuts, Jar 3: shredded coconut, dried cranberries, and dark chocolate chips, Jar 4: fresh strawberries and almond butter.
- Refrigerate overnight:
- Seal jars with lids and chill for at least 8 hours.
- Serve:
- In the morning, stir the oats, add extra milk if desired, and enjoy from the jar or serve in bowls.
Save to Pinterest My kids love picking out different toppings the night before and building their own oat jars. It has become a fun family tradition at breakfast time.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, 4 jars or airtight containers, spoon
Allergen Information
Contains dairy and nuts if used; for nut or dairy-free options, use plant-based alternatives and skip nuts.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (base only): 250 calories, 6 g fat, 38 g carbohydrates, 10 g protein
Save to Pinterest Prep these overnight oats ahead for a colorful, hearty breakfast that everyone loves. Grab and go, or enjoy slowly with your favorite coffee.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of oats are best for soaking overnight?
Old-fashioned rolled oats work best as they absorb liquid well while retaining a pleasant texture after soaking.
- → Can I use plant-based milk and yogurt alternatives?
Yes, plant-based milk and yogurt can replace dairy to keep the dish vegan and still maintain creaminess.
- → How long should the oats chill to develop flavor?
Chilling for at least 8 hours allows the oats to soften completely and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- → What toppings pair well with the creamy base?
Fresh berries, sliced banana, granola, shredded coconut, nuts, nut butters, dark chocolate chips, and dried fruits create great flavor contrasts.
- → How long can the prepared jars be stored?
They are best eaten within 5 days when kept refrigerated to ensure freshness and quality.