If you’re often in a rush every morning, you might want to prepare make-ahead meals during the evening. One healthy breakfast that’s perfect for busy mornings? Overnight oats.
Basically, it’s like muesli. Instead of heating oats on the stove, you soak them in liquid and put them in the fridge overnight.
But don’t cold oats taste blah? Well, overnight oats enthusiasts think that this dish is akin to coffee–some like it hot, others like it cold.
Before writing it off, consider giving this tasty, fiber-rich dish a try. Read on and learn the process of making overnight oats, as well as some recipe ideas you can try.
How to Make Overnight Oats
Whipping up overnight oats is as easy as 1-2-3. All you need are a mason jar in which you can stir the following ingredients:
- Old-fashioned rolled oats
- Milk (or water)
- Yogurt (if you want to make it creamier)
- Chia seeds or flax seeds (if you prefer thicker oats)
- Honey, maple syrup, or other sweeteners
- Vanilla extract, cinnamon, and other flavorings
Mix all the dry ingredients first, then stir in the wet ingredients. Next, put the cover back on your mason jar and place it in the fridge. Let the oats soak overnight or for at least four hours.
When you’re ready to enjoy it for breakfast, give it a quick stir, add the toppings, and dig right in. If you prefer warm oatmeal, you can simply heat it in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute before adding your toppings.
Overnight Oats Recipe Ideas
Ready to make overnight oats in your apartment? Here are a few easy recipes you can prepare tonight to enjoy for breakfast:
Carrot Cake Overnight Oats
If you want to get in your daily dose of veggies and have desserts for breakfast, you should definitely make carrot cake overnight oats. Packed with a full serving of vegetables, this vegan breakfast can help you start your day with the right nutrients.
Base
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup finely grated carrots
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons raisins (optional)
- 1/2 tablespoon crushed walnuts
Toppings
- 1/2 tablespoon crushed walnuts
- 1/2 tablespoon pecans
- 1/2 tablespoon grated carrots
- 1/2 tablespoon shredded coconut
Peanut Butter Overnight Oats
Often craving a peanut butter sandwich for breakfast? A tastier twist to this plain breakfast, this peanut butter overnight oats recipe will give you a sweet protein boost during hectic mornings.
Base
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
Toppings
- 1 banana, sliced
- 1 strawberry, sliced
- 1 teaspoon flax seeds
- 1 tablespoon granola
Strawberry Cheesecake Overnight Oats
Combine the fruity flavor of strawberries with the tangy notes of cheesecake, and you’ll have something to look forward to in the morning. This strawberry cheesecake overnight oats recipe will satisfy your craving for both sweet and salty.
Base
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup diced strawberries
- 1 tablespoon flax seeds
- 2 tablespoons softened cream cheese
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2/3 cup almond milk
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- A pinch of salt
Toppings
- 3 strawberries, sliced
- 1 tablespoon granola
Overnight oats are a quick and easy breakfast option that can be customized to fit your tastes and dietary preferences. With just a few simple ingredients in the recipes above and some preparation the night before, you can have a delicious meal waiting for you in the morning. So why not give them a try and see how they can simplify your morning routine and fuel your day with energy and nutrients?
Oxford at The Boulevard Apartments in Corinth, TX