These easy overnight oats with fruit are a delicious way to start your day! Just mix oats, milk, and your favorite fruits in a jar and let them soak overnight for a creamy treat.
Who wouldn’t love waking up to a tasty breakfast ready to go? I often top mine with a sprinkle of nuts for a little crunch. Give it a try; it’s like a smoothie in a bowl! 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are the star of this recipe! They’re fluffy and soak up moisture well. If you don’t have rolled oats, you could use quick oats, but the texture won’t be quite the same. Steel-cut oats are not recommended, as they need more cooking time.
Milk: You can choose dairy or any non-dairy milk such as almond, soy, or oat milk. I prefer almond milk for its light taste, but feel free to pick what you like! Just be careful with flavored kinds, as they can make the oats too sweet.
Greek Yogurt: This ingredient adds creaminess and protein. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt or skip it altogether. You can also use regular yogurt if you prefer a lighter option.
Chia Seeds: Chia seeds are optional but boost nutrition and add thickness. If you don’t have them, you can skip this ingredient or use flaxseeds. They offer a similar texture and nutritional benefits.
Sweetener: Honey or maple syrup both sweeten things up perfectly. If you’re vegan, stick with maple syrup. If you want a sugar-alternative, try agave nectar or stevia, but use less as they’re sweeter than honey.
How Do I Get the Right Consistency for My Overnight Oats?
Sometimes, getting overnight oats to the right thickness can be tricky. It helps to start with the right ratios. A common guideline is to use twice the amount of liquid to oats. Here’s how to adjust:
- Mix the oats and liquid well. If you want it creamier, add more yogurt.
- After soaking, if it seems too thick, stir in extra milk until you like the consistency.
- For chunks, folding in fruits earlier means they become part of the mix, while adding them on top keeps them fresh and bright.
Easy Overnight Oats With Fruit
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for added nutrition)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Topping:
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced (or other fruits like bananas or blueberries)
- 2 tablespoons shredded coconut (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients, and then just let your oats soak in the refrigerator overnight or for at least 4 hours. It’s a simple, make-ahead breakfast that’s ready for you in the morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base Ingredients:
In a medium-sized bowl or a jar, mix together the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. This is the base for your delicious overnight oats!
2. Add the Strawberries:
Carefully fold in half of the sliced strawberries. Save the other half for topping later! This will give your oats a nice fruity flavor as they soak up the milk.
3. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover your bowl or jar with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill overnight, or if you’re in a hurry, at least for 4 hours. This soaking time is what makes the oats soft and creamy.
4. Stir and Adjust Consistency:
When you’re ready to eat in the morning, give your oats a good stir. If it seems a bit too thick for your liking, don’t worry! Just add a splash of milk and mix until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Add the Toppings:
Top your oats with the remaining fresh strawberries and sprinkle on the shredded coconut, if you’re using it. This adds a lovely texture and sweetness to your breakfast.
6. Enjoy!
Your easy overnight oats are now ready to enjoy! You can eat them cold straight from the fridge or let them sit at room temperature for a bit. Either way, it’s a tasty and nutritious way to start your day!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats, but keep in mind that they will absorb liquid faster and yield a softer texture. Reduce the soaking time to 2-3 hours, or even overnight, if you prefer them creamier. Just make sure not to add too much liquid, as instant oats need less than rolled oats!
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use regular yogurt or even a plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free option. Alternatively, a banana mashed can add creaminess without altering the flavor much!
How to Store Leftover Overnight Oats?
Store your leftover overnight oats in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. If you find they’ve thickened too much, just stir in a splash of milk before enjoying!
Can I Add Other Toppings or Fruit Variations?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize with nuts, seeds, nut butter, or other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or chopped apples. Just make sure to keep the fruit fresh to maintain the best flavor and texture!
