Banana Bread Overnight Oats

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Banana Bread Overnight Oats recipe combines all the best flavors of banana bread without the baking hassle. The oats soak overnight, absorbing the sweetness of the banana, honey, and cinnamon while blending seamlessly with the yogurt and milk. Plus, it’s completely customizable with optional add-ins like walnuts, chia seeds, or extra banana slices. These oats are ideal for those who love banana bread but want a quick, healthy, and portable option.

Ingredients

• 1 cup old fashioned rolled oats – large flake oats

• 1 cup milk – dairy milk or plant-based milk

• ⅔ cup plain yogurt – Greek yogurt works best

• ½ ripe banana – mashed

• 1-2 Tbsp chopped walnuts – optional

• 1 Tbsp honey – pure maple syrup or sugar

• 2 tsp chia seeds – optional

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ¼ tsp sea salt

• ½ ripe banana – for topping (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a bowl, combine the rolled oats, milk, plain yogurt, mashed banana, chopped walnuts (if using), honey, chia seeds (if using), cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix everything together thoroughly.

2. Pour the mixture into two containers, like mason jars, and seal them with lids.

3. Place the jars in the fridge for a minimum of 4 hours, but preferably overnight, to allow the oats to absorb all the liquid.

4. In the morning, take the jars out of the fridge and give the oats a good stir. Add any desired toppings, such as sliced bananas or extra chopped walnuts.

5. Enjoy your Banana Bread Overnight Oats cold, straight from the jar, with a spoon.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2 servings

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Chill Time: 4 hours (preferably overnight)

• Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free: Skip the walnuts and chia seeds to make it a nut-free breakfast.

• Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based milk like almond, oat, or coconut milk and dairy-free yogurt.

• Sweetener Swap: Replace honey with maple syrup or your favorite sweetener to adjust the sweetness.

• Additional Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for a deeper flavor.

• Banana Layers: Slice extra banana into layers within the oats before refrigerating for an added fruity texture.

Storage/Reheating

Store your Banana Bread Overnight Oats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. These oats can be eaten cold right from the jar, but if you prefer them warm, simply microwave them for 20-30 seconds. Stir well before serving and add any desired toppings.

FAQs

1. How long should I let the oats sit in the fridge?

For the best results, let the oats sit in the fridge for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight. This allows the oats to fully absorb the liquid and soften to the perfect creamy texture.

2. Can I make these oats ahead of time for a week?

Yes, you can prepare several servings at once and store them in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Just make sure to use airtight containers to maintain freshness.

3. Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?

While you can use instant oats, rolled oats are recommended for the best texture and flavor. Instant oats can become too soft and mushy when soaked overnight.

4. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, simply swap the dairy milk and yogurt for plant-based alternatives, like almond milk and coconut yogurt, to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

5. How do I make this recipe sweeter?

You can adjust the sweetness by adding more honey, maple syrup, or another sweetener of your choice. Start with small amounts and taste as you go.

6. Is it necessary to add chia seeds?

No, chia seeds are optional. They help thicken the oats and add extra fiber, but if you prefer, you can leave them out.

7. Can I add protein powder to this recipe?

Yes, adding protein powder is a great way to boost the protein content of your overnight oats. Just be sure to adjust the liquid accordingly if you’re adding powder.

8. Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, you can use frozen bananas. Just thaw them slightly before mashing to ensure they blend well into the oats.

9. How can I make this recipe lower in calories?

To reduce the calorie count, you can use non-fat yogurt and skim milk or a lower-calorie plant-based milk. You can also reduce or skip the honey if you’d like to cut back on sweetness.

10. Can I heat up overnight oats?

Yes, overnight oats can be warmed up in the microwave if you prefer them warm. Just heat for 20-30 seconds and stir well before serving.

Conclusion

Banana Bread Overnight Oats are the perfect make-ahead breakfast that delivers all the comforting flavors of banana bread in a quick and nutritious form. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying breakfast that will keep you energized and full throughout the morning. Whether you enjoy them cold or warm, with or without toppings, these overnight oats are customizable to your taste and a great option for busy mornings.