Overnight Oats with Peanut Butter

Name: Overnight Oats with Peanut Butter
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 2 cups milk (any type, dairy or non-dairy); 1/2 cup Greek yogurt; 1/4 cup peanut butter; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Sliced bananas; Chopped nuts; Chia seeds; Berries; Cinnamon

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love waking up to a wholesome breakfast that requires no cooking, and that's exactly why I make Overnight Oats with Peanut Butter. This recipe is perfect for my busy mornings, allowing me to enjoy a nutritious meal that's ready to go. With the creamy richness of peanut butter and the satisfying texture of oats, it’s a delightful way to kickstart my day. Plus, I can customize it with my favorite toppings, making it a versatile breakfast option that never gets old!

Created by

Bethany Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-20T03:28:09.112Z

When I first made Overnight Oats with Peanut Butter, I was surprised by how simple yet satisfying it turned out. The combination of rolled oats, nutty flavor from peanut butter, and creamy yogurt created an oasis of taste and texture. I experimented with different types of milk and loved how almond milk added a subtle sweetness.

One tip I can share is to let the oats soak overnight in the refrigerator; this not only softens the oats but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The next morning, I simply add my favorite toppings like sliced bananas or a drizzle of honey, and breakfast is served!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy peanut butter flavor that’s incredibly satisfying
Quick to prepare and perfect for meal prep
Endless topping options to keep breakfast exciting

      

The Importance of Oats

Rolled oats are the star ingredient in this recipe, providing not only a hearty texture but also essential nutrients. They are high in soluble fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep you feeling full throughout the morning. When combined with the creamy peanut butter, the oats create a deliciously cohesive mixture that is satisfying without being heavy. I recommend sticking with rolled oats rather than instant, as they better absorb the liquid overnight, yielding a creamier consistency.

Soaking the oats overnight allows them to soften and absorb flavors, creating a delightful breakfast that requires no cooking. After resting, you might find that the oats have swelled and become plump, resulting in a more palatable texture. If using quick oats, be aware that they tend to break down faster and may turn mushy rather than maintaining a pleasant chewiness.

Peanut Butter Selection

The type of peanut butter you choose can significantly impact the flavor of your Overnight Oats. Creamy peanut butter blends easily into the mixture, giving you that luxurious texture, while crunchy varieties add a delightful contrast in bite. Opt for natural peanut butter with minimal added ingredients for a healthier option, but be aware that oil separation can occur; a quick stir before measuring can help incorporate it evenly.

If you're looking to switch things up, consider almond or cashew butter as substitutes for a different flavor profile. Each nut brings its unique twist; for instance, almond butter adds a hint of sweetness whereas cashew butter has a creamier taste. However, remember that these alternatives may alter the nutritional content slightly, so account for that if you're watching macros.

Topping Ideas for Every Mood

One of the best parts about Overnight Oats is the versatility of toppings. Fresh fruits like berries or sliced bananas not only add natural sweetness but also a burst of freshness that complements the rich peanut butter. For added texture and nutrition, sprinkle chia seeds or chopped nuts just before serving. I often mix my toppings based on the season; heating sliced apples with cinnamon in the fall creates a cozy breakfast that feels indulgent.

You can also pair these oats with an array of flavors by incorporating spices or extracts. A dash of cinnamon can enhance the warmth of the peanut butter, while a splash of maple syrup can enhance sweetness without overpowering the oats. Don't hesitate to experiment with ingredients like cocoa powder for a chocolaty twist or even a dollop of your favorite jam for additional sweetness. The possibilities truly are endless!

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats
2 cups milk (any type, dairy or non-dairy)
1/2 cup Greek yogurt
1/4 cup peanut butter
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Toppings (Optional)

Sliced bananas
Chopped nuts
Chia seeds
Berries
Cinnamon

Instructions

Prepare the Base

In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Chill Overnight

Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and put it in the refrigerator. Let it sit overnight so the oats soften and absorb the flavors.

Serve and Enjoy

In the morning, give the oats a good stir. Serve them in bowls, and add your favorite toppings such as sliced bananas, nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Pro Tips

Feel free to switch up the nut butter to almond or cashew for a different flavor. If you like a creamier texture, add more yogurt or milk in the morning before serving.

Storing and Reheating

These Overnight Oats can last in the refrigerator for up to five days, making them ideal for meal prep. To keep the topping fresh, consider storing them separately and adding them just before serving. If you find your oats too thick after chilling, simply add a splash of milk to loosen them up before enjoying. They can also be eaten cold or warmed up in the microwave for a cozy breakfast; just reheat in short intervals to avoid overheating.

If you want to prepare a batch for later in the week, simply double the recipe and portion it out into separate containers. Just remember to adjust the amount of toppings depending on how many servings you plan to create; adding them all in advance could lead to soggy oats by midweek.

Scaling and Variations

This recipe scales beautifully if you're cooking for more people or want a larger batch for the week. Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need. Keep in mind that if you plan to scale significantly, using a larger bowl or container for initial mixing will help avoid spillage. You can easily make this vegan by substituting Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt, and selecting maple syrup or agave in place of honey.

For a protein boost, consider stirring in some protein powder or using a higher-protein milk alternative like soy or pea milk. Likewise, if you're looking to cut back on sugar, use unsweetened nut milk and omit honey altogether; the natural sweetness of the peanut butter and any added fruits can provide ample flavor without needing extra sweeteners.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your Overnight Oats end up too watery, ensure you have the right oat-to-liquid ratio. If you've combined the ingredients and they seem overly runny, simply add a touch more oats, letting them sit for an extra hour to absorb the excess moisture. Conversely, if your oats are too thick, stir in a bit of milk to reach your desired consistency before serving.

When replacing ingredients, be cautious of flavors and textures. For instance, if using flavored yogurt, it may add sweetness but could change the overall taste of your oats in unexpected ways. Be prepared to adjust the quantities of other sweeteners based on what yogurt you opt for, to achieve the perfect balance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make overnight oats vegan?

Absolutely! Just use plant-based yogurt and milk alternatives.

→ How long will overnight oats last in the fridge?

They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making them great for meal prep!

→ Can I freeze overnight oats?

Yes, you can freeze overnight oats. Just make sure to leave out any toppings, which can be added fresh after thawing.

→ What other mix-ins can I add?

You can add fruits, nuts, seeds, or even cocoa powder for a chocolatey version!