Creamy, rich, and naturally sweet, these Peanut Butter Overnight Oats are one of my favorite make-ahead breakfasts. They’re incredibly easy to throw together in just five minutes, and by morning, I’ve got a filling, protein-packed meal waiting in the fridge. Whether I’m rushing out the door or taking it slow, this recipe is a go-to for both flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
½ cup rolled oats
⅔ cup milk of choice (almond, oat, dairy, etc.)
2 tablespoons natural peanut butter
1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Optional toppings: sliced banana, chopped peanuts, chia seeds, or dark chocolate chips
Directions
I add the oats, milk, peanut butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to a mason jar or airtight container.
I stir everything together until it’s fully combined and the peanut butter is well mixed in.
I seal the container and place it in the refrigerator overnight, or for at least 4 hours.
In the morning, I give it a good stir. If the oats are too thick, I add a splash of milk to loosen them up.
Then I add my favorite toppings—usually some banana slices and a sprinkle of chopped peanuts or chocolate chips.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 1 serving.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Chill time: at least 4 hours (or overnight)
Total time: about 5 minutes active + chill
Calories: 320 kcal per serving
Variations
I sometimes swap the peanut butter for almond or cashew butter for a different flavor.
To make it extra chocolatey, I stir in a teaspoon of unsweetened cocoa powder.
If I want to boost the protein even more, I mix in a scoop of vanilla or chocolate protein powder.
For a fruity twist, I add diced strawberries or blueberries before refrigerating.
To keep it nut-free, I use sunflower seed butter and skip the chopped peanuts on top.
Storage/Reheating
I keep my overnight oats in the fridge for up to 4 days. I make a few jars at once to stay ahead of busy mornings. There’s no need to reheat—just grab a jar, give it a stir, and dig in. If I prefer it warm, I microwave it for 30–60 seconds, adding a splash of milk if needed.
FAQs
What kind of oats should I use for overnight oats?
I use rolled oats because they give the best texture—soft but not mushy. I avoid instant oats (too mushy) and steel-cut oats (too chewy unless pre-cooked).
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, I use almond, oat, or soy milk to make it completely dairy-free. Just make sure to choose an unsweetened variety if I want to control the sweetness.
Can I add yogurt to make it creamier?
Absolutely. I sometimes add a few spoonfuls of Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt to the mix for extra creaminess and protein.
Are these oats sweet enough without maple syrup or honey?
For a less sweet version, I skip the sweetener or reduce the amount. The banana or chocolate chips on top often add enough sweetness for me.
Can I double or triple the recipe?
Yes, I often batch-prep a few servings at once. I just multiply the ingredients and divide them into separate containers for grab-and-go breakfasts all week.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Overnight Oats are one of my favorite ways to start the day. They’re quick, nourishing, and endlessly adaptable to whatever I’m craving. Whether I want a healthy breakfast or a snack to fuel me through the day, this recipe always delivers.
📖 Recipe:
Peanut Butter Overnight Oats
- Total Time: 5 minutes active, plus at least 4 hours chill
- Yield: 1 serving
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy and protein-packed, these peanut butter overnight oats are an easy, make-ahead breakfast perfect for busy mornings. Naturally sweetened and customizable with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
½ cup rolled oats
⅔ cup milk of choice (almond, oat, dairy, etc.)
2 tablespoons natural peanut butter
1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Optional toppings: sliced banana, chopped peanuts, chia seeds, or dark chocolate chips
Instructions
- Add oats, milk, peanut butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt to a mason jar or airtight container.
- Stir everything together until fully combined and smooth.
- Seal the container and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours.
- In the morning, stir the oats. Add a splash of milk if the mixture is too thick.
- Add desired toppings such as banana slices, chopped peanuts, or chocolate chips.
Notes
Use rolled oats for the best texture—avoid instant or steel-cut oats.
Make it dairy-free by using almond, oat, or soy milk.
Add yogurt for a creamier texture and more protein.
For a chocolatey twist, stir in 1 teaspoon cocoa powder.
Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. No reheating needed.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 jar
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
