Save Creamy, customizable overnight oats layered in jars with delicious toppings are ideal for meal prep and Instagram-worthy breakfasts. Make these ahead for an easy start to your busy mornings.
I started making overnight oats in jars when I realized how much smoother my mornings became. They save time and make breakfast feel special with minimal effort—even my kids love choosing their own toppings!
Ingredients
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: 2 cups, for a hearty and creamy base
- Milk (dairy or plant-based): 2 cups, depending on dietary preference
- Plain Greek yogurt (or plant-based yogurt): 1 cup for added creaminess
- Chia seeds: 2 tbsp to help thicken and add fiber
- Maple syrup or honey: 2 tbsp to sweeten naturally
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp for flavor
- Salt: Pinch, to balance taste
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries): 1/2 cup, your choice
- Banana: 1 medium, sliced
- Granola: 1/4 cup, adds crunch
- Shredded coconut: 2 tbsp, for texture
- Nut butter (peanut, almond, or sunflower seed): 2 tbsp, for richness
- Chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans): 2 tbsp, optional
- Dark chocolate chips: 2 tbsp, for a sweet touch
- Dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, apricots): 2 tbsp, to add flavor
Instructions
- Prepare Oat Base:
- In a large bowl, combine oats, milk, yogurt, chia seeds, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
- Divide into Jars:
- Spoon the oat mixture evenly into 4 clean jars or containers, about 3/4 cup per jar.
- Add Toppings:
- Top each jar with preferred ingredients. For example: jar 1 gets mixed berries + granola, jar 2 sliced banana + peanut butter + nuts, jar 3 coconut + dried cranberries + chocolate chips, jar 4 strawberries + almond butter.
- Seal and Refrigerate:
- Seal jars with lids and refrigerate overnight, at least 8 hours.
- Enjoy:
- In the morning, stir, add extra milk for added creaminess if desired, and eat directly from the jar or transfer to a bowl.
Save The first weekend I introduced these oats, my family had fun creating their own flavor combinations. It's become a Saturday tradition where everyone gets their own personalized breakfast jar!
Required Tools
Mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, 4 glass jars or airtight containers, spoon
Allergen Information
Contains dairy and nuts if used in toppings. For nut-free options, skip nut butters and nuts, and use seed alternatives. For gluten-free needs, use certified gluten-free oats and double-check product labels.
Nutritional Information
Each base serving contains about 250 calories, 6 g total fat, 38 g carbohydrates, and 10 g protein. Toppings may add additional nutrients and calories.
Save Enjoy your overnight oats straight from the jar for a satisfying, mess-free breakfast. Adjust toppings for the season or mood—these jars are as delicious as they are convenient!
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I prepare the creamy oats base?
Combine rolled oats, milk or plant-based alternative, Greek or plant yogurt, chia seeds, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until all ingredients are blended evenly.
- → Can I customize the toppings?
Yes, choose from fresh berries, sliced banana, granola, shredded coconut, nut butters, chopped nuts, dark chocolate chips, or dried fruits to create your preferred combination.
- → What is the chilling time for optimal texture?
Refrigerate the layered jars for at least eight hours to allow the oats and chia to absorb moisture, resulting in a creamy, soft consistency.
- → Are vegan and gluten-free versions possible?
Absolutely. Use plant-based milk and yogurt with maple syrup for vegan options. For gluten-free, select certified gluten-free oats and avoid toppings containing gluten.
- → How long can the jars be stored?
The prepared jars keep well refrigerated for up to five days, making them ideal for meal prep and easy mornings.
- → Can I adjust the sweetness or texture?
Yes, add more or less maple syrup or honey to control sweetness and add extra milk before eating for a creamier texture.