Overnight Oats
Overnight oats use simple ingredients, are rich in many nutrients, can be made in large batches, and don’t require any heating. Simply mix the ingredients, refrigerate overnight, and add your favorite toppings in the morning. Most overnight oats recipes are based on the same few ingredients. Here is the secret formula!
Ingredients:
Oats. Old-fashioned oats work best for overnight oats. For a shorter soaking time, use quick oats, and for a longer one, use steel-cut oats.
Milk. Use cow’s milk or a fortified, unsweetened, plant-based milk of your choice at a 1:1 ratio with the oats. For example, 1/2 cup (120 ml) of milk per 1/2 cup (120 ml) of oats.
Chia seeds (optional). Chia seeds act like glue to bind the ingredients. Use 1/4 part chia seeds per 1 part oats. For instance, use 1/8 cup (30 ml) chia seeds per 1/2 cup (120 ml) oats.
Yogurt (optional). Yogurt adds extra protein and creaminess. Use a dairy or plant-based yogurt and adjust the amount to your preference.
Vanilla (optional). A dash of vanilla extract or vanilla bean adds a touch of flavor to your overnight oats.
Sweetener (optional). A little maple syrup, 2–3 chopped dates, or half a mashed banana can sweeten your overnight oats.
Preparation:
To prepare your overnight oats, simply combine all the ingredients and refrigerate them overnight in an airtight container.
The oats and chia seeds soak up the milk and soften overnight, yielding a pudding-like texture come the next morning.
Overnight oats keep for up to four days when refrigerated in an airtight container. That means you can easily batch-prepare larger portions of the base recipe and add your favorite toppings to individual portions throughout the week for variation (5).
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