Overnight Oats Recipe – Peanut Butter, Chia & Berry Bliss

Last Updated on 1 month by Neha Deshmukh

Overnight Oats Recipe – Peanut Butter, Chia & Berry Bliss

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, mornings can be… chaotic. Between getting ready and rushing out the door, a healthy breakfast often falls by the wayside. But I’ve found the perfect solution: overnight oats! This Peanut Butter, Chia & Berry Bliss version is my absolute go-to. It’s quick to prep the night before, totally customizable, and tastes like a treat. Seriously, it’s a game changer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another overnight oats recipe. It’s a little pocket of happiness waiting for you in the fridge! It’s incredibly easy – honestly, even I can’t mess it up. Plus, it’s packed with goodness to keep you fueled until lunchtime. Think creamy peanut butter, healthy chia seeds, and a burst of fresh berries. What’s not to love?

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a serving of this deliciousness:

• ½ cup rolled Quaker Oats (about 40g)
• 1 cup sweetened almond milk (240ml)
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds (15g)
• 2 tablespoons peanut butter (crunchy or creamy – about 32g)
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup (5ml)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional – about 2.5ml)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference.

Chia Seeds – Health Benefits & Varieties

Chia seeds are tiny powerhouses! They’re full of fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein. I love using black chia seeds, but white chia seeds work just as well – they’re a little milder in flavor. You can usually find them in the health food aisle of most supermarkets.

Peanut Butter – Natural vs. Processed

When it comes to peanut butter, I always recommend natural. It usually just contains peanuts and maybe a little salt. Avoid brands with added sugar and oils. The oil separation is normal – just give it a good stir! My family prefers the crunch, but creamy works beautifully too.

Almond Milk – Homemade vs. Store-Bought

Almond milk adds a lovely creaminess. Store-bought is super convenient, but if you’re feeling ambitious, homemade almond milk is even better! Just remember to use unsweetened almond milk if you prefer to control the sweetness.

Quaker Oats – Steel Cut vs. Rolled Oats

For overnight oats, rolled oats (also called old-fashioned oats) are the way to go. They soften beautifully overnight. Steel-cut oats take much longer to cook and won’t have the same creamy texture. Quick-cooking oats can get mushy, so I avoid those for this recipe.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Okay, let’s get cooking (well, prepping!). It really couldn’t be simpler.

1. First, grab a bowl or a mason jar – whatever you prefer. I like using a mason jar because it’s easy to grab and go.
2. Add the chia seeds, peanut butter, almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract (if you’re using it) to your bowl or jar.
3. Give everything a good mix until it’s nice and smooth. No lumps allowed!
4. Now, gently stir in the rolled oats. You want them coated in the liquid.
5. Cover it up and pop it in the fridge. Overnight is best, but at least 6 hours will do the trick.
6. In the morning, give it another stir. It will have thickened up beautifully.
7. Top with your favorite goodies! I love sliced banana, strawberries, blueberries, and a sprinkle of toasted salted hemp seeds.
8. Serve chilled and enjoy!

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned along the way:

• Don’t skip the chia seeds! They’re what give the oats that lovely thick and creamy texture.
• Adjust the liquid. If you like your oats thinner, add a splash more almond milk.
• Stir well. This ensures everything is evenly combined and the chia seeds don’t clump.

Variations

This recipe is a blank canvas for your creativity!

• Vegan: This recipe is already vegan! Just double-check your maple syrup is 100% pure.
• Gluten-Free: Rolled oats are naturally gluten-free, but check the packaging to ensure they’re processed in a gluten-free facility if you have a sensitivity.
• Nut-Free Adaptations: Swap the peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or tahini.
• Spice Level – Cinnamon/Nutmeg Addition: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg adds a warm, cozy flavor. My grandma always added a dash of nutmeg to hers!
• Sweetness Level – Adjusting Maple Syrup: If you prefer things less sweet, start with ½ teaspoon of maple syrup and add more to taste.
• Fruit Variations – Mango, Apples, Pears: Berries are classic, but feel free to experiment! Mango, diced apples, or sliced pears are all delicious options. My friend loves adding chopped dates for extra sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Overnight oats are perfect on their own, but you can also jazz them up! Try adding a dollop of yogurt, a sprinkle of granola, or a drizzle of honey. They’re great for breakfast, a post-workout snack, or even a healthy dessert.

Storage Instructions

Overnight oats will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I usually make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week. Just give it a good stir before serving.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

1. Can I make overnight oats with water instead of almond milk?

You can, but the texture won’t be as creamy. Almond milk adds a richness that water just can’t match.

2. How long can overnight oats sit in the refrigerator?

Up to 3 days is best. After that, the texture can start to get a little weird.

3. What is the best ratio of chia seeds to liquid for overnight oats?

I find 1 tablespoon of chia seeds per 1 cup of liquid works perfectly.

4. Can I warm up overnight oats, or are they best served cold?

They’re best served cold, in my opinion! But if you really prefer warm oats, you can gently heat them in the microwave for a minute or two.

5. Can I add protein powder to my overnight oats?

Absolutely! Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder when you’re mixing everything together.

6. What kind of peanut butter works best in this recipe?

Both crunchy and creamy peanut butter work great! Natural peanut butter is my preference, but use whatever you like.