These Banana Chia Overnight Oats are super easy to make and perfect for busy mornings! Just mix oats, chia seeds, banana, and your favorite milk, then let it sit overnight.
The best part? You wake up to a tasty and filling breakfast. I love adding a drizzle of honey on top! It’s like a breakfast hug in a jar. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are the base for your overnight oats, giving them a hearty texture. If you’re gluten-free, look for certified gluten-free oats. Quick oats can work, but they may become too mushy.
Chia Seeds: These tiny seeds add a nice thickness and boost fiber. If you don’t have chia seeds, you can try ground flaxseeds, but the texture will be different.
Banana: Use a ripe banana for natural sweetness. If you prefer, substitute with applesauce or mashed avocado for variations in sweetness and creaminess.
Milk: Any milk works here—dairy, almond, soy, or oat. Unsweetened almond or coconut milk adds a lovely flavor without extra sugars.
Nut Butter: I love adding peanut butter for taste and protein. Almond butter or cashew butter are great alternatives if you want something different!
How Do You Make the Perfect Overnight Oats?
Making overnight oats is simple! The key is the balance of ingredients, so let’s break it down:
- Mix the dry ingredients first (oats and chia) to ensure even distribution.
- Mash half a banana into the mix for sweetness and creaminess, then add the milk.
- After thoroughly combining, adjust sweetness with honey or maple syrup. This can be done easily depending on your taste.
- Refrigerate overnight to let the oats soak up the liquid. This step is crucial for the perfect creamy texture.
- In the morning, give the oats a good stir. Add more milk if needed for your desired consistency.
- Top it off with your favorite Nut butter, banana slices, nuts, and a sprinkle of chia seeds for added crunch!
Enjoy these oats straight from the jar or served in a bowl—perfect for busy mornings!
How to Make Banana Chia Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 2 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 ripe banana, sliced (plus extra slices for topping)
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 2 tbsp peanut butter or almond butter (optional for topping)
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) for topping
- Additional chia seeds for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and needs to chill for at least 4 hours or overnight. So if you make it in the evening, it’ll be ready for you in the morning—perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a mason jar or any airtight container, add the rolled oats and chia seeds. This is the base of your overnight oats, creating a nutritious and filling breakfast.
2. Add the Banana:
Mash half of the banana with a fork and mix it into the oats and chia seeds. It adds natural sweetness and creaminess to the mixture.
3. Pour in the Milk:
Add the milk to the mixture and stir well, making sure everything is combined. The milk is crucial as it hydrates the oats and chia seeds overnight.
4. Sweeten It Up:
If you’d like, add honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness and a pinch of cinnamon for flavor. Stir again to mix everything thoroughly.
5. Refrigerate:
Seal the container and place it in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or overnight. This allows the oats and chia seeds to absorb the liquid and soften, resulting in a delicious, creamy texture.
6. Stir and Adjust Consistency:
In the morning, take your container out of the fridge and give the mixture a good stir. If it’s too thick for your liking, add a splash more milk to loosen it.
7. Add Toppings:
Top your oats with the remaining banana slices, a dollop of peanut or almond butter, chopped nuts, and a sprinkle of chia seeds for added crunch and nutrition.
8. Enjoy!
Dig in! You can enjoy these banana chia overnight oats straight from the jar or serve them in a bowl. It’s a perfect grab-and-go breakfast!
This recipe yields a creamy, nutritious breakfast packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats. Enjoy the delicious layers of flavor and texture as you start your day right!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but be aware that they may absorb liquid faster and result in a mushier texture. If you prefer a heartier bite, stick to rolled oats.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness?
Feel free to customize the sweetness to your liking! Start with the suggested honey or maple syrup, then taste the mixture before refrigerating. Add more sweetener if needed, but remember that the banana will also add some natural sweetness.
Can I Prepare It for Meal Prep?
Absolutely! These overnight oats can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to keep toppings, like nuts and banana slices, separate until you’re ready to eat for the best texture.
How to Serve Leftover Overnight Oats?
If you have any leftovers, simply stir them up and enjoy cold. If you prefer a warm breakfast, you can heat them in the microwave for a minute or so, adding a little extra milk if needed for creaminess.