Save Creamy, customizable overnight oats layered in jars with delicious toppings are perfect for easy meal prep and make Instagram-worthy breakfasts everyone will love.
I first tried overnight oats during a busy week and was impressed by how simple, nourishing, and versatile they are. Making a batch in jars for the week has become a favorite routine for both breakfast and snack time.
Ingredients
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: Use 2 cups for a hearty base that absorbs liquid overnight
- Milk (dairy or plant-based): 2 cups, choose your favorite for creaminess
- Plain Greek yogurt (or plant-based yogurt): 1 cup, for a creamy texture and added protein
- Chia seeds: 2 tbsp, add thickness and health benefits
- Maple syrup or honey: 2 tbsp, sweeten naturally
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp, for warm flavor
- Salt: Just a pinch to balance flavors
- Fresh berries: 1/2 cup, such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries
- Banana: 1 medium, sliced
- Granola: 1/4 cup for crunch
- Shredded coconut: 2 tbsp, for tropical flavor
- Nut butter (peanut, almond, or sunflower seed): 2 tbsp for richness
- Chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans): 2 tbsp, adds crunch and nutrition
- Dark chocolate chips: 2 tbsp for a sweet touch
- Dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, apricots): 2 tbsp for chewy sweetness
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, mix oats, milk, yogurt, chia seeds, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir together thoroughly.
- Portion Into Jars:
- Divide mixture evenly among 4 jars (about 3/4 cup per jar).
- Add Toppings:
- Top each jar with chosen toppings. For example: Jar 1 - mixed berries and granola, Jar 2 - banana, peanut butter, and chopped nuts, Jar 3 - coconut, dried cranberries, and chocolate chips, Jar 4 - strawberries and almond butter.
- Chill Overnight:
- Seal jars, refrigerate for at least 8 hours.
- Serve:
- In the morning, stir, add extra milk for creaminess if desired, and enjoy from the jar or bowl.
Save My kids love picking their own toppings each night, turning breakfast into a fun, creative family moment in the kitchen every week.
Required Tools
All you need are a mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, 4 glass jars or containers, and a spoon for assembly and serving.
Allergen Information
Contains dairy and nuts if included—choose seed butters, plant-based milk/yogurt, and certified gluten-free oats as needed to accommodate allergies.
Nutritional Information
Each jar (base only) provides about 250 calories, 6g fat, 38g carbohydrates, and 10g protein. Toppings may vary nutrient values.
Save Customize each jar with your favorite mixins, and enjoy a creamy, satisfying breakfast anytime—ready to grab and go!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use plant-based milk and yogurt?
Yes, substituting dairy milk and yogurt with plant-based alternatives works well, making this suitable for vegan diets.
- → How long should the oats chill?
Refrigerate the mixture for at least 8 hours to allow the oats to absorb liquid and achieve a creamy texture.
- → What toppings pair well with layered oats?
Fresh berries, sliced banana, granola, shredded coconut, nuts, nut butter, dark chocolate chips, and dried fruit all add flavor and texture.
- → Can I prepare these jars in advance?
Yes, these oats keep well refrigerated for up to 5 days, making them ideal for meal prep and busy mornings.
- → Is it possible to make gluten-free options?
Using certified gluten-free rolled oats ensures the dish is safe for gluten-sensitive diets.