Banana Chia Overnight Oats are a tasty and healthy breakfast that you can make the night before. Just mix oats, bananas, and chia seeds in milk or yogurt for a creamy treat!
I love waking up to this easy breakfast. Just grab a spoon and enjoy it cold – it’s like dessert for breakfast! Plus, the chia seeds add a fun crunch. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are key for texture in your overnight oats. If you don’t have rolled oats, quick oats can work too, but they may make the mixture mushy. On the other hand, steel-cut oats will take longer to absorb liquid, so they aren’t ideal for overnight oats.
Chia Seeds: Chia seeds are fantastic for thickening and adding nutritional benefits. If you’re out of chia seeds, ground flaxseed is a good substitute. Just keep in mind that it won’t thicken quite the same way.
Milk: Any type of milk works here – dairy, almond, oat, or soy. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, almond or coconut milk gives a nice flavor. Adjust the amount based on how creamy you want your oats.
Banana: A ripe banana is perfect for mashing. If you don’t have a banana, you can use applesauce for sweetness, or even another fruit puree like pumpkin if you want a twist in flavor!
Nut Butter: Peanut butter is a classic choice, but almond butter or sunflower seed butter are great for a different flavor. You can also skip it altogether if you’re looking for a lighter option.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare Chia Seeds for Overnight Oats?
Preparing chia seeds might seem tricky, but it’s super easy! Chia seeds need moisture to expand, so mixing them with oats and milk is perfect.
- When you add chia seeds to your oats, stir them in well to prevent clumping.
- Let the mixture sit overnight in the fridge, so the chia seeds absorb the liquid and swell up, creating that lovely, creamy texture.
- In the morning, stir again. If it’s too thick, a splash of milk will adjust the desired consistency.
How to Make Banana Chia Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 ripe banana, mashed (plus extra slices for topping)
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter or almond butter (for topping)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- A pinch of cinnamon (optional)
- Sweetener to taste (honey, maple syrup, or agave syrup)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and then you need to let it chill in the fridge overnight, or at least 4 hours. After that, it’s ready to enjoy when you wake up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl or a jar, add the rolled oats, chia seeds, and your choice of milk. Stir everything together very well to combine. This creates a nice base for your overnight oats.
2. Add the Banana:
Next, mash the ripe banana and add it to the oat mixture. Mix thoroughly! The banana adds natural sweetness and creaminess, making the oats delicious and nutritious. If you like, add some vanilla extract, a pinch of cinnamon, and any sweetener you desire!
3. Chill It Out:
Cover the bowl or jar with a lid or some plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator overnight (or let it sit for at least 4 hours). This is when the oats and chia seeds soak up the liquid and become soft and creamy.
4. Stir and Adjust:
In the morning, pull the oats out of the fridge and give the mixture a good stir. If it feels too thick for your taste, just add a splash of milk to get it to your desired consistency.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your overnight oats in a jar or bowl. Top with your favorite peanut or almond butter, some banana slices, and a sprinkle of chia seeds or cinnamon for added flavor. Get ready to dig in!
6. Relish It Cold:
Enjoy your Banana Chia Overnight Oats cold, straight from the fridge! This refreshing breakfast is both filling and nutritious, perfect to kick-start your day!
This simple, creamy banana chia overnight oats recipe makes a wholesome and delicious breakfast that’s ready when you are. The chia seeds add a pleasant texture and a boost of omega-3s and fiber, while the banana and nut butter provide natural sweetness and richness. Happy eating!
Can I Use Instant Oats for This Recipe?
While you can use instant oats in a pinch, they tend to absorb liquid much quicker than rolled oats, which could lead to a mushy texture. Rolled oats are preferred for a better consistency!
Can I Substitute the Banana?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of bananas, you can use other fruits like mashed apples, pumpkin puree, or even blended berries for a different flavor. Just ensure your substitute adds enough moisture!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
The overnight oats can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Just give them a good stir before serving, and add a splash of milk if needed to refresh the texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Just make sure to use certified gluten-free rolled oats to keep the recipe gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the oats without any worries!