Overnight Oats with Chia Seeds

Overnight Oats with Chia Seeds (Banana & Berry Inspired)

This recipe is easily customizable, so feel free to adjust toppings and sweeteners to your liking!

Yields: 1 serving Prep time: 5 minutes Chill time: At least 4 hours, or preferably overnight

Ingredients:

• Dry Ingredients:
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned oats, not instant)
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• Liquid:
  • 3/4 cup milk of choice (dairy milk, almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, etc.)
• Sweetener (optional):
  • 1-2 teaspoons maple syrup, honey, agave nectar, or a pinch of stevia (adjust to your sweetness preference)
• Flavor Boost (optional):
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
• Toppings (as seen in image and suggestions):
  • 1/2 a banana, sliced
  • A handful of fresh berries (raspberries, blueberries, strawberries – visible in image foreground)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, almonds – visible in image)
  • 1 teaspoon additional chia seeds (for garnish, as seen on top)
  • A dollop of yogurt (plain or Greek yogurt, visible as white layer on top)

Instructions:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a jar with a lid (like a Mason jar) or a small bowl, combine the rolled oats and chia seeds.
2. Add Liquid and Sweetener: Pour in the milk, sweetener (if using), and vanilla extract (if using). If adding cinnamon, mix it in now.
3. Stir Well: Stir everything together thoroughly with a spoon, making sure there are no clumps of oats or chia seeds stuck at the bottom. The chia seeds will absorb liquid and help thicken the mixture.
4. Cover and Chill: Place the lid on the jar or cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight, to allow the oats and chia seeds to soften and absorb the liquid, creating a creamy consistency.
5. Add Toppings & Serve: In the morning, give the mixture a quick stir. If it’s too thick, you can add a splash more milk to reach your desired consistency.
   • Add a dollop of yogurt on top (if using).
   • Arrange the sliced banana, fresh berries, chopped nuts, and a sprinkle of extra chia seeds on top, just like in the image.
6. Enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

• Fruit: Experiment with different fruits like diced apples, peaches, mango, or shredded coconut.
• Protein Boost: Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the mix before chilling for an extra boost.
• Nut Butter: Swirl in a tablespoon of peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter for added flavor and healthy fats.
• Chocolate: Add a teaspoon of cocoa powder for chocolate overnight oats.
• Spices: Try a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or pumpkin pie spice.
• Meal Prep: You can make several jars at once for quick breakfasts throughout the week. They typically last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Enjoy your delicious and easy overnight oats!