Vanilla Overnight Oats

Healthy vanilla overnight oats are vegan, gluten-free, and easy to make! This meal prep breakfast idea is made in 5 minutes and it’s super convenient for busy mornings. The simple recipe uses pantry staples like rolled oats, chia seeds, dairy-free yogurt, and maple syrup. You can include all sorts of add-ins and toppings, like protein powder and almond butter. It’s creamy, sweet, and tastes like vanilla pudding!

When it comes to the great chocolate vs vanilla debate, I have always been on team chocolate. However, these vanilla overnight oats definitely give my Chocolate Overnight Oats a run for their money!

This recipe is nearly identical to my Basic Overnight Oats, but I wanted to create a separate post for all of the vanilla lovers out there. The key difference here is that we’re using more vanilla extract and vanilla-flavored ingredients (like vanilla almond milk or vanilla yogurt) for a richer flavor.

Although it tastes like you’re eating dessert for breakfast, this oatmeal recipe is nutritious, hearty, and made with just 5 minutes of prep time. We’ll start by adding rolled oats, chia seeds, vanilla yogurt, and a few other ingredients to a mason jar. After stirring them together, we’ll store the jar inside the refrigerator overnight. The end result? Creamy oats that are instantly ready to eat in the morning!

You can further customize the flavor by adding your favorite mix-ins and toppings, like nut butter, protein powder, and chocolate chips. With infinite ways to enjoy these oats, you’ll want to make them again and again. (And never grow tired of them!)

These vanilla overnight oats are:

• Vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free
• Quick, effortless, and easy to make
• A healthy meal prep breakfast recipe
• Creamy, hearty, nourishing, and satisfying
• Reminiscent of vanilla pudding
• Great for kids and busy families
• Customizable with endless toppings and add-ins

Ingredients in vanilla overnight oats

• Oats: Use rolled oats for this recipe. They have gone through a steaming and rolling process, which makes them great for soaking and enjoying raw. Do not use other varieties like steel cut or instant oats.
• Milk: You can use any type of milk, whether it is regular milk or dairy-free milk. I highly recommend unsweetened vanilla almond milk or vanilla oat milk for the best flavor.
• Vanilla yogurt: This ingredient is optional, but it helps create a thicker and creamier texture. You can use vanilla non-dairy yogurt or regular vanilla yogurt.
• Maple syrup: In order to make these oats without refined sugar, we will naturally sweeten them with real maple syrup. Other options include honey, agave nectar, and coconut sugar.
• Chia seeds: Chia seeds are a great addition to overnight oatmeal because they also absorb liquid while soaking. This makes the consistency extra creamy. Additionally, they are rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
• Vanilla extract: Add a splash of pure vanilla extract to deepen the vanilla flavor.
• Cinnamon: This anti-inflammatory spice is commonly added to oatmeal recipes. It brings warm flavor and complements the vanilla.
• Salt: Add a pinch of salt to enhance the taste of all other ingredients.

How to make vanilla overnight oats with chia seeds

For the full ingredient measurements and step-by-step instructions, scroll down to view the recipe card at the bottom of the page.

First, add rolled oats, vanilla milk, vanilla yogurt, maple syrup, chia seeds, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt to a jar. Mix the ingredients together, then seal with a lid.

Next, store the oats in the refrigerator overnight or at least 4 hours.

The next morning (or whenever you are ready to eat), remove the lid and stir the oats. If desired, add a splash of milk to thin the consistency.

Enjoy the oats directly out of the jar or transfer them to a bowl. Add any toppings of your choosing, like fresh fruit, nut butter, and granola. Enjoy!

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Are overnight oats healthy for you?

Absolutely! There are several amazing benefits of overnight oats. For starters, this breakfast is made with healthy ingredients (just like regular cooked oatmeal). The soaking process helps break down starches and reduces phytic acid, which helps your body efficiently use the nutrients. Additionally, overnight oats are high fiber, great for heart health, and may improve digestion.

Can I put vanilla extract in my oatmeal?

Of course! This recipe uses a teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. For an even richer flavor, I recommend using vanilla almond milk and vanilla yogurt.

Can I add protein powder to overnight oats?

Yes, you can easily make this a high protein overnight oats recipe by including a scoop of protein powder. Feel free to use a basic unflavored protein powder or any fun flavor, like cake batter or cookies and cream protein.

Are overnight oats good for weight loss?

Overnight oatmeal can promote weight loss because it’s low calorie and high in fiber. Also, since oatmeal is a slow-digesting carbohydrate, it can help you feel full and satisfied for several hours. It’s certainly a more satiating option than fast-digesting carbs, like cereal and pastries.

Can I heat up overnight oats?

Yes. Although they are meant to be eaten cold from the refrigerator, you can microwave the overnight oats for 1-2 minutes and enjoy them warm.

What can I add to overnight oats?

One of the best things about overnight oats is how versatile and customizable they are! When it comes to add-ins and toppings, there are endless ways to enjoy this creamy breakfast.

Add-ins and boosters to include:

• Protein powder
• Nut butter
• Maca powder
• Cocoa or cacao
• Cinnamon or pumpkin spice
• Matcha powder

Toppings for serving:

• Fresh fruit
• Nut butter
• Granola
• Nuts and seeds
• Chocolate chips (I use stevia-sweetened chocolate chips for no sugar!)
• Maple syrup
• Coconut flakes or shredded coconut
• Raisins or dried berries

How to store vanilla overnight oats with yogurt

Overnight oats are best enjoyed within 24 hours. However, you can keep them stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Be sure they are tightly sealed in a jar with a lid.

More healthy overnight oats recipes

• Chocolate Overnight Oats
• Peanut Butter Overnight Oats
• Banana Overnight Oats
• Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats
• Cookie Dough Overnight Oats

If you try these Vanilla Overnight Oats, please let me know your thoughts by leaving a rating and comment below! Ready for more? Subscribe to my newsletter or follow along on Instagram and YouTube!

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