Wondering how to make overnight oats? It’s the most simple healthy make ahead breakfast out there, and absolutely kid friendly! You can even make a large batch to feed a crowd – so easy!
I grew up eating overnight oats not just for breakfast, but sometimes even for dinner. I guess it was my mom’s no-guilt option for when she didn’t feel like cooking dinner.
Kind of what I use whole wheat waffles for 😉
My kids don’t mind these one bit, no matter the time of day – actually they love helping me make them, too!
I just made a huge batch with my preschooler for our family Easter brunch.
Overnight oats are not just amazing to make in individual jars, they also work to easily feed a crowd!
- You can mix up a batch as large or as little as you need
- They are make ahead, so you have a more relaxed morning
- You can add anything to them you like – fruit, chocolate chips, nuts… So easy to customize!
Some of our favorite mix ins are bananas and chocolate chips, almonds and blueberries, shredded carrots and coconut (carrot cake overnight oats!) or shredded apple and cinnamon.
When the first warm days of spring roll around, we usually do just strawberries because we’re so excited about them popping up at the grocery store!
How to make overnight oats:
A quick overview:
- Stir all ingredients together in a bowl, making sure to distribute the chia seeds
- Divide between individual jars (OR leave in the large bowl for a crowd)
- Chill in the fridge overnight
- Serve cold
Some extra tips:
What if my oats are too wet/too dry in the morning?
The only thing you really need to get right for his recipe to work are the ratios. Sometimes when I make a big batch I don’t even measure – I just wing it.
You can just add more oats or more milk in the morning if they’re not right. This recipe is incredibly forgiving. Shhhh don’t tell anyone 😉
Can I make overnight oats without chia seeds?
Yes, you absolutely can. I’ve made it plenty of times.
Just add 2 extra tablespoons of oats and a little less milk. You could also use flax seed, but it does have a stronger taste.
The chia does add extra creaminess, so do keep that in mind if you’re choosing to skip it.
What jars are you using?
I use some adorable Weck jars, but you could also use mason jars with screw-on lids. What I love about the Weck jars is their glass lid, because I feel like the metal lids from mason jars get gross and rusty quite quickly.
I use these small ones for snack-sized and kid-sized portions. For a larger portion, I use bigger ones like these. FYI, I make a commission for purchases made through these links.
Bottom line – overnight oats are SO easy to make!
And I even made a video to show you how easy these are – no excuse to make your mornings less stressful!
Maybe these will become your emergency dinner option, too? Definitely not the worst thing to give to your kids 😉
Get the printable recipe here:
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup milk of choice
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
- Fruit, chocolate chips or nuts to mix in
- extra fruit, for topping
Instructions
- Stir all ingredients together very well.
- Divide between jars and cover.
- Refrigerate overnight, then serve cold topped with extra fruit.