Overnight oats were introduced a few years back, and they haven’t gone anywhere since. The tried-and-true method of combining oats and milk in a jar, refrigerating them overnight and enjoying a healthy breakfast ready in the morning is a dream come true. Truly nothing beats the convenience of a meal on the go along with all the nutrition benefits you get from oatmeal.
Overnight oats make for a deliciously balanced meal if done properly. Not to mention, there are many ways to go about making overnight oats. You can switch up the flavor, the thickness, the sweetness, the toppings – the possibilities are endless.
So how do you make the perfect jar of overnight oats for you?
These tips and tricks will help you create a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will have you making overnight oats over and over again.
How to make overnight oats
1. Find a sturdy glass jar.
A classic mason jar is the perfect container for overnight oats. Find one with a tight lid to keep your breakfast safe on your commute.
2. Choose your oats.
The oats you choose will affect the texture and taste of your breakfast. If you’re into a smooth, doughier texture, then opt for quick oats. If you prefer a crunchier, nuttier breakfast, then go for steel cut oats. Remember, if you have Celiac disease or a gluten intolerance make sure to only use certified-gluten free oats.
3. Get the ratio right.
When making overnight oats, the exact ratio of milk to oats depends on what kind of oats you are using. So, a useful trick is to add enough milk to fully cover your oats, but not too much to drown them. If they look too dry in the morning, add an extra splash of milk, and you’ll be good to go. It’s better to add too little than too much!
4. Add some protein.
Oats offer a moderate amount of protein per serving, but if you want to make sure you’re getting a complete protein, add a ½ scoop of your favorite protein powder. This gives the oats an amazing texture as well as adds a boost of flavor. If you aren’t a protein powder fan, throw in a scoop of yogurt in place of some of the milk, or plop some on top in the morning.
5. Add some fat.
Not only will this add mega flavor to your oats, but it will keep you fuller longer and help sustain energy. Almond butter and peanut butter are my two favorites, but don’t be afraid to try some sunflower butter, cashew butter or even flavored ghee.
6. Add some texture.
For a more voluminous, crunchy oat experience, feel free to add chia seeds, flax meal, protein powder or wheat germ. These will add even more texture while adding essential micro and macronutrients.
7. Keep it creamy.
For the creamiest oats make sure to use a hearty milk, like dairy milk or oat milk.
8. Make it sweet.
Unless you are one of those people who can get by with unsweetened oatmeal, you are likely going to want a touch of sweetener. While honey and maple syrup are great options that mix easily, stevia drops are a sugar-free option that taste great and will help reduce blood sugar spikes in the morning. You can go for unflavored stevia or try flavored drops to enhance your oats.
9. Add a jolt.
If you have an early morning and know you’re going to need an extra pick-me-up, sub out some of the milk for coffee. You can use brewed coffee, cold brew or dehydrated grounds. If coffee isn’t your vibe, add some color to your oats and throw in a teaspoon of matcha powder for sustained energy.
10. Save toppings for the a.m.
While the oats need to soak overnight to reach their best texture, it is best to leave adding your toppings until the morning. Whether it’s fresh fruit, frozen fruit, nuts or nut butter, they will taste the best when added as close to consumption as possible.
11. Season up.
Spices are your friend! Cinnamon, pumpkin spice, ginger, turmeric – sprinkle in whatever your heart desires. Add them in before soaking to help flavor the oats overnight.
12. It’s all in the name.
Overnight oats are named so for a reason; so before you get too excited, make sure to let them sit overnight. Your oats can be ready in 4-6 hours (although 10-12 is ideal), so even if you make them right before bed and eat them as soon as you wake up your oats will be nice and ready!
