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classic overnight oats in a glass with strawberries and blueberries

Classic Overnight Oats

The Essential Vegan
Overnight oats are easy to make, healthy, and highly customizable. Use this basic recipe as a starting point and add your favorite toppings! 
Prep Time 5 minutes
Chill Time 8 hours
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 3

Equipment

  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 fork

Ingredients
  

  • 1 banana
  • 1 cup old-fashioned (rolled) oats
  • 1 ½ cups unsweetened soy milk or other nondairy milk
  • 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds
  • ½ tablespoon maple syrup

Topping suggestions

  • diced strawberries
  • shredded coconut
  • blueberries
  • granola
  • cacao nibs

Instructions
 

  • Using a fork, mash the banana in a large bowl.
  • Add the oats, plant milk, flaxseed, chia seeds, and maple syrup to the bowl. Mix well.
  • Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture overnight. Alternatively, to make individual grab-and-go servings, divide the mixture into 3 mason jars or small storage containers, cover, and refrigerate.
  • To serve: Top with your desired toppings. Serve chilled.

Notes

  • I prefer soy milk in this recipe because (in my opinion) it seems to give the oats a slightly smoother, richer texture. Any plant milk may be substituted with good results.
  • This recipe gets a touch of natural sweetness from the banana and maple syrup but it is deliberately not overly sweet. This is so it compliments the toppings without overpowering them.
  • Feel free to experiment with the suggested toppings or others! I prefer to mix something crunchy (like granola) with something sweet (like fresh fruit). 
  • Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to three days.
Keyword basic overnight oats, easy overnight oats, overnight oats, vegan overnight oats