Start your day right with our Banana and Walnut Overnight Oats, the perfect make-ahead breakfast for busy mornings. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this delicious breakfast option is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Mornings in our household can sometimes feel like a race against the clock. Whether it's juggling work, or just trying to sneak in a few extra minutes of sleep, breakfast often takes a backseat. But amidst the hustle and bustle, there's one breakfast option that's always a lifesaver: Overnight oats. It's our go-to solution for those hectic mornings when time is short and hunger is looming.
The beauty of overnight oats lies in its simplicity and versatility. With just a few basic ingredients and a little prep the night before, you can wake up to a wholesome and satisfying breakfast that's ready to grab and go. Plus, the health benefits of oats are simply unbeatable! According to Healthline, they're packed with essential nutrients and offer a range of health benefits, from improved digestion to heart health. So, whether you're rushing out the door or savoring a leisurely morning, overnight oats are here to make breakfast a breeze.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Healthy breakfast: With whole grains and nutritional ingredients, it's a guilt-free morning meal and a nutritious breakfast.
- Simple ingredients: No need for complicated shopping lists; everything you need is likely already in your pantry.
- Meal prep friendly: Spend a little time the night before, and you'll have breakfast ready to go when you wake up.
- Budget Friendly: Economical ingredients make this a wallet-friendly option.
- Easily customizable: Switch up the toppings and add-ins to suit your taste buds and cravings.
Ingredients
- Old-fashioned oats
- Chia seeds
- Milk of choice (try almond milk, coconut milk, oat milk or soy milk regular cow's milk)
- Plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free alternative)
- Sweetener of choice (honey adds a lovely sweetness)
- Salt
- Vanilla extract
See the recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
For Individual Servings
- Combine the oats, chia seeds, milk, yogurt, sweetener, salt, and vanilla extract in sealable glass jars or small airtight containers with lids.
- Soak in the refrigerator for a minimum of 4 hours, but it’s best to soak overnight oats for 8 hours.
- When you are ready to serve, give your overnight oats a stir, add a splash of milk if it’s too stiff. Top your overnight oats with banana, walnuts and a drizzle of honey.
For a Big Batch
- Combine the oats, chia seeds, milk, yogurt, sweetener, salt, and vanilla extract in a non-reactive bowl or an airtight container. Cover with cling wrap or a lid.
- Soak in the refrigerator for a minimum of 4 hours, but it’s best to soak overnight oats for 8 hours.
- Portion into jars or small airtight containers when ready.
- When you are ready to serve, give your overnight oats a stir, add a splash of milk if it’s too stiff. Top your overnight oats with banana, walnuts and a drizzle of honey.
Chefs Tips
- For best results use High-Quality Ingredients: opt for high-quality oats, milk, yogurt, and sweeteners to ensure the best flavor and texture in your overnight oats. Look for organic, non-GMO, and minimally processed options whenever possible.
- Experiment with Toppings: Don't be afraid to get creative with your toppings! Try adding sliced fruits, like sliced strawberries, nuts, seeds, coconut flakes, or even a drizzle of pure maple syrup for extra sweetness. Mixing and matching your favorite toppings can add variety and excitement to your breakfast routine.
- Adjust Liquid Ratio: Depending on your preference, you can adjust the amount of liquid in your overnight oats to achieve your desired consistency. If you like your oats thicker, use less liquid. For a thinner consistency, add more milk or yogurt.
- Prep in Bulk for Convenience: Save time during busy mornings by prepping your overnight oats in bulk. Make a large batch of dry mix by combining oats, chia seeds, and any other dry ingredients you like. Store the mix in a large jar or airtight container, and simply scoop out the desired amount each night and add liquid.
- Customize to Your Taste: One of the best things about overnight oats is their versatility. Feel free to customize your oats to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you prefer them sweeter, creamier, or packed with extra protein, there's a variation out there for everyone.
- Don't Forget the Texture: Texture is key when it comes to enjoying overnight oats. Make sure to give your oats a good stir before serving to evenly distribute the ingredients and achieve a creamy consistency. If your oats are too thick, you can always add a splash of milk to loosen them up.
Variations / Substitutions
- Make it vegan: For a dairy-free option, simply swap out the milk and yogurt for plant-based alternatives like almond milk, and coconut yogurt. You can also use maple syrup or agave nectar as a sweetener instead of honey.
- Make it Gluten Free: If you're sensitive to gluten, use certified gluten-free oats to ensure your overnight oats are safe to eat.
- Add more protein: Boost the protein content of your overnight oats by stirring in a scoop of protein powder or collagen peptides. This is a great option for those looking to fuel their morning with an extra protein punch.
- Swap the Vanilla Extract: Switch up the flavor profile of your overnight oats by using almond extract or ground cinnamon instead of vanilla. This simple substitution can add a whole new dimension of flavor to your breakfast.
What to Serve With Overnight Oats
- Fresh Fruit for a Seasonal Option: Add a burst of freshness to your overnight oats by topping them with sliced strawberries, blueberries, or peaches. The juicy sweetness of fresh fruit pairs perfectly with the creamy oats.
- Cacao Nibs or Dark Chocolate Chips for a Decadent Treat: Indulge your sweet tooth by sprinkling cacao nibs or dark chocolate chips over your overnight oats. The rich, chocolatey flavor adds a deliciously decadent touch to your breakfast.
- Warm Spices like Cinnamon, Nutmeg, or Pumpkin Spice for a Warm Satisfying Flavor: Add a cozy and comforting twist to your overnight oats with a sprinkle of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin spice. These aromatic spices create a fragrant and flavorful breakfast that's perfect for chilly mornings.
- Nut Butter or Seed Butter: Drizzle your overnight oats with your favorite nut butter or seed butter for an extra boost of flavor and protein. Peanut butter, almond butter, and cashew butter are all delicious options that pair well with oats.
By experimenting with these variations and serving options, you can customize your overnight oats to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you prefer a classic combination or want to get creative with new flavors and toppings, the possibilities are endless!
Storage Instructions
Proper storage is key to keeping your overnight oats fresh and delicious. Here's how to store them for optimal taste and convenience:
How Long Does Overnight Oats last in the Fridge
Store your overnight oats in sealed mason jars or airtight containers in the refrigerator. If you've added fruit toppings, they'll stay fresh for 1-2 days. Without toppings, your oats can last for 3-4 days. The cool temperature of the fridge helps maintain the texture and flavor of your oats, making them a convenient grab-and-go option for busy mornings.
Freezer
If you want to make a larger batch of overnight oats or prep them in advance for the week, you can also store them in the freezer. Transfer your oats to airtight containers and label them with the date for easy reference. Your frozen oats will stay fresh for 1-3 months, giving you plenty of time to enjoy them at your leisure.
How to Defrost Overnight Oatmeal
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen overnight oats, simply transfer them from the freezer to the refrigerator the night before. Let them defrost overnight, and by morning, they'll be ready to eat. Keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different after freezing, so you may want to give them a quick stir and add a splash of milk before serving.
Best Jars or Containers for Overnight Oats
When it comes to storing your overnight oats, choosing the right jars or containers can make a big difference in maintaining freshness and convenience. Here are a few options to consider
- Mason Jars: Mason jars are a classic choice for overnight oats. They come in various sizes, from 8 oz to 14 oz, allowing you to portion out individual servings or make larger batches. The screw-on lids provide a tight seal, keeping your oats fresh and portable.
- Screw Top Jars: Similar to mason jars, screw-top jars are another excellent option for storing overnight oats. They come in a range of sizes and shapes, making them versatile for different serving sizes and storage needs. The screw-on lids ensure a secure closure, preventing any leaks or spills.
- Airtight Containers: If you prefer a more streamlined storage solution, airtight containers are a great choice. These containers come in various shapes and sizes, allowing you to customize your storage space to fit your needs. Look for containers with secure locking mechanisms to ensure a tight seal and keep your oats fresh for longer.
FAQ’s
Yes, you can use quick oats if that's what you have on hand. However, keep in mind that quick oats tend to absorb liquid faster, resulting in a softer texture compared to old-fashioned oats. So, your overnight oats might be a bit more mushy, but they'll still be delicious and nutritious.
We don't recommend using steel-cut oats for overnight oats. Steel-cut oats have a much chewier texture and require longer cooking times. Soaking them overnight might not soften them enough, making them tough and hard to eat.
While yogurt adds creaminess and a slight tanginess to the overnight oats, it's not a must. If you prefer not to use yogurt or if you're dairy-free, you can omit it altogether or substitute it with a non-dairy alternative like coconut yogurt. The oats will still soak up the liquid and create a delicious breakfast.
Yes, technically you can eat warm overnight oats if you prefer. You can warm them up gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until they reach your desired temperature. However, overnight oats are traditionally enjoyed cold, straight from the fridge. The cold temperature enhances the creamy texture and makes for a refreshing breakfast option. But feel free to experiment and enjoy them however you like best!
More Overnight Oats Recipe to try
These Banana and Walnut Overnight Oats offer a simple, nutritious, and customizable breakfast solution for busy mornings. Fuel your day with ease and flavor by incorporating this delicious recipe into your morning routine. Take the first step towards healthier mornings and try our Overnight Oats recipe today!
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Banana and Walnut Overnight Oats Recipe
- Total Time: 5 - 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Start your day right with our Banana and Walnut Overnight Oats, the perfect make-ahead breakfast for busy mornings. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this delicious breakfast option is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
1 x Serving
½ cup Old-fashioned oats
1 tablespoon Chia seeds
½ - ¾ cup Milk of choice (we use almond milk)
¼ cup Plain Greek yogurt (or dairy free alternative)
1 tablespoon Sweetener of choice (we use honey)
Pinch of salt
¼ teaspoon Vanilla extract
Topping:
½ medium bananas
1 tablespoon walnuts
6 x Servings
3 cups Old-fashioned oats
6 tablespoon Chia seeds
3 - 4 ½ cups Milk of choice (we use almond milk)
¼ cup Plain Greek yogurt (or dairy free alternative)
6 tablespoon Sweetener of choice (we use honey)
¼ teaspoon Salt
1 ½ teaspoon Vanilla extract
Topping:
3 - 4 medium bananas
6 tablespoon walnuts
Instructions
For individual servings:
1. Combine the oats, chia seeds, milk, yogurt, sweetener, salt and vanilla extract in sealable glass jars or small airtight containers with lids.
2. Soak in the refrigerator for a minimum of 4 hours, but it’s best to soak overnight oats for 8 hours.
3. When you are ready to serve, give your overnight oats a stir, add a splash of milk if it’s too stiff. Top your overnight oats with fresh banana slices and walnuts.
For a big batch:
1. Combine the oats, chia seeds, milk, yogurt, sweetener, salt and vanilla extract in a non reactive bowl (like glass) or an airtight container. Cover with cling wrap or a lid.
2. Soak in the refrigerator for a minimum of 4 hours, but it’s best to soak overnight oats for 8 hours.
3. When your overnight oats are ready, divide the mixture between 6 glass jars or small airtight containers with lids (or bowls if you are ready to enjoy your overnight oats). Store in the refrigerator until needed.
4. When you are ready to serve, give your overnight oats a stir, add a splash of milk if it’s too stiff. Top your overnight oats with sliced banana and walnuts.
Notes
Fridge Storage - Store in Mason jars or airtight containers in the fridge. With fruit toppings: best within 1-2 days for freshness. Without toppings: good for 3-4 days.
Freezer Storage - Freeze without toppings/mix-ins in individual portions for 1-3 months.
Defrosting - Defrost overnight in the fridge. Stir and add a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 5 - 10 minutes
- Soaking Time: 4 - 8 hours
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 501
- Sugar: 27.6 g
- Sodium: 121.7 mg
- Fat: 13.9 g
- Carbohydrates: 72.7 g
- Protein: 16.9 g
- Cholesterol: 9.3 mg
The nutrition is an estimate only. It was calculated using Nutrifox, an online nutrition calculator.
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