Banana Chia Overnight Oats are a tasty and easy breakfast! Just mix oats, chia seeds, banana slices, and your favorite milk, then let it chill overnight.
In the morning, you get a creamy, banana-flavored treat that’s full of fiber. I love adding a sprinkle of cinnamon on top—so good! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These oats are perfect for overnight oats because they soak up the liquid well. Quick oats can work too, but they may become mushy. For a gluten-free option, check for certified gluten-free oats.
Chia Seeds: They provide a nice thickness and a boost of omega-3s. If you don’t have chia seeds, consider flaxseeds. They won’t thicken the mix as much, but they still add good nutrition.
Milk: I usually opt for almond milk because I love the nutty flavor. You can use any milk you prefer—coconut, soy, or oat milk all work nicely too!
Greek Yogurt: This adds a protein kick and creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, use coconut yogurt or any plant-based yogurt you enjoy. It’ll keep the dish creamy without dairy.
Banana: Fresh ripe bananas are key for sweetness. If bananas aren’t available, you could use apple sauce or even a sweetened nut butter for flavor!
Nut Butter: I like peanut butter for its rich taste, but almond butter or any nut/seed butter can be a great alternative. If you’re avoiding nuts, sunflower seed butter is fantastic!
How Do I Get the Right Consistency for Overnight Oats?
Consistency can be a common concern with overnight oats. You want a creamy texture that’s not too runny. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with the right ratios of oats and liquid; typically, a 1:2 ratio works well.
- Use the chia seeds; they’re amazing thickeners! Make sure to mix them in well with the oats.
- If your mix is too thick after chilling overnight, just stir in a bit of extra milk in the morning!
- Give it a good stir before serving to break up any clumps and ensure a creamy consistency throughout.
With these tips, you’ll have deliciously creamy overnight oats every time!
Banana Chia Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/4 cup rolled oats
- 2 tbsp chia seeds
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt
- 1 ripe banana, sliced (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tbsp peanut butter or almond butter
- 1 tsp maple syrup or honey (optional)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of cinnamon
- A few cacao nibs or dark chocolate shavings for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and is best made the night before, allowing it to chill in the fridge for at least 6 hours. So, it’s perfect if you’re looking for a quick and healthy breakfast option that’s ready when you wake up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base Ingredients:
In a medium bowl or jar, combine the rolled oats, chia seeds, and milk. Use a spoon to stir well, making sure everything is mixed and there are no clumps forming.
2. Mix in the Yogurt and Sweetener:
Next, stir in the plain yogurt, vanilla extract, and if you’d like some sweetness, add your maple syrup or honey. This will make the mixture creamy and flavorful!
3. Add Banana and Peanut Butter:
Take half of that ripe banana and mash it gently with a fork in a separate bowl. Add this to your oat mixture for natural sweetness. Then, add the peanut butter and a pinch of cinnamon, mixing everything until it’s smooth and evenly combined.
4. Refrigerate to Set:
Cover your bowl or jar with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Allow it to chill overnight or for at least 6 hours. This helps the oats and chia seeds absorb the liquid and soften.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
In the morning, give the mixture a stir. If it’s too thick for your liking, splash in a bit more milk to reach your desired consistency. Transfer to a serving jar or bowl, and top with the remaining banana slices along with some cacao nibs or chocolate shavings for a little extra treat!
Enjoy your nourishing, creamy Banana Chia Overnight Oats!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats! However, keep in mind that they absorb liquid more quickly, so you may need to decrease the soaking time to just a few hours to avoid a mushy texture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make it vegan, simply use a plant-based yogurt and replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Make sure your milk is also plant-based, like almond or oat milk!
Can I Add Other Fruits or Flavors?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other fruits like berries, apple slices, or even nuts and seeds for extra texture and flavor. You could also try different spices like nutmeg or replace the banana with applesauce for variation.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Overnight Oats?
Leftover overnight oats can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give them a good stir before serving, and you can add a splash of milk to refresh the consistency as needed.