Save Creamy, customizable overnight oats layered in jars with delicious toppings—ideal for meal prep and Instagram-worthy breakfasts.
I first tried making overnight oats in jars when looking for a breakfast that was filling and ready to grab in the morning. These oats have quickly become a weekly staple—the creamy layers and tasty toppings make breakfast both convenient and satisfying.
Ingredients
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: 2 cups
- Milk (dairy or plant-based): 2 cups
- Plain Greek yogurt (or plant-based): 1 cup
- Chia seeds: 2 tbsp
- Maple syrup or honey: 2 tbsp
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Salt: Pinch
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries): 1/2 cup
- Banana, sliced: 1 medium
- Granola: 1/4 cup
- Shredded coconut: 2 tbsp
- Nut butter (peanut, almond, or sunflower seed): 2 tbsp
- Chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans): 2 tbsp
- Dark chocolate chips: 2 tbsp
- Dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, apricots): 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Combine Oats Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, mix oats, milk, yogurt, chia seeds, syrup or honey, vanilla, and salt. Stir until well blended.
- Portion Into Jars:
- Divide oat mixture into 4 jars (about 3/4 cup in each).
- Add Toppings:
- Top each jar with preferred toppings, such as berries with granola, sliced banana with nut butter and nuts, coconut with cranberries and chocolate chips, or strawberries with almond butter.
- Refrigerate:
- Seal jars and chill overnight for at least 8 hours.
- Serve:
- Stir oats in the morning, add extra milk if desired, then enjoy from the jar or transfer to a bowl.
Save My kids love building their own oats jars and always request different toppings to make breakfast fun. It's the easiest way for the whole family to enjoy a healthy start together.
Required Tools
Mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, 4 glass jars or airtight containers, spoon
Allergen Information
Contains dairy and nuts if used. For nut-free, opt for seed alternatives and check labels for gluten or other allergens.
Nutritional Information
Each base serving has about 250 calories, 6 g total fat, 38 g carbohydrates, 10 g protein. Add toppings for extra nutrition and flavor.
Save Give overnight oats time to soak for best texture. These jars make breakfast effortless and delicious every morning!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can plant-based substitutes be used for dairy?
Yes, plant-based milk and yogurt alternatives work well, maintaining creaminess and flavor while keeping it vegan-friendly.
- → How long should the oats soak for best texture?
Soaking for at least 8 hours is recommended to achieve a creamy and smooth consistency without cooking.
- → What are good topping combinations?
Try mixed berries with granola, banana with nut butters and chopped nuts, or shredded coconut paired with dried fruits and chocolate chips for variety.
- → Can this be prepared gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free rolled oats to ensure the dish is safe for those avoiding gluten.
- → How long can the oats be stored refrigerated?
Stored properly in airtight jars, they keep fresh up to 5 days, making them perfect for meal prep.