Banana Cinnamon Overnight Oats are a yummy and easy breakfast! Made with rolled oats, ripe bananas, and a dash of cinnamon, they are creamy and sweet. Just mix and chill overnight!
I love waking up to a tasty breakfast that’s ready to go! Plus, you can customize it with toppings like nuts or yogurt. It’s a great way to start the day with energy! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are the base of the recipe. If you don’t have rolled oats, you can use quick oats, but the texture will be softer. Steel-cut oats can be used, but they require longer soaking.
Liquid: Any milk works here! I recommend almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option. You could even use yogurt instead of milk if you’re looking for extra creaminess.
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and protein. If you’re dairy-free, try coconut yogurt or omit it altogether. You can also use regular yogurt, but this will be less thick.
Banana: Ripe bananas are sweeter and softer, making them ideal for this dish. If bananas aren’t on hand, you could use applesauce or another fruit puree for sweetness.
Cinnamon: A fantastic flavor booster! If you’re not a fan of cinnamon, vanilla extract could be a nice alternative.
How Do I Ensure My Overnight Oats Are Creamy and Delicious?
Getting the right creamy texture is key for perfect overnight oats! Follow these steps for great results:
- Mix all dry ingredients together first. This helps cinnamon and chia seeds distribute evenly.
- When adding wet ingredients, be careful not to overmix; just combine until moistened.
- Let the oats and chia seeds soak overnight. This gives them time to absorb the milk and soften.
- In the morning, if the mixture feels thick, add a little more milk to reach your ideal consistency.
- Top with fresh banana slices and a sprinkle of cinnamon to make it pretty and appetizing!
Banana Cinnamon Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy, e.g., almond, oat)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- 1 ripe banana, sliced (plus a few extra slices for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for texture and nutrition)
- A pinch of salt
- Granola or nuts (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time. For the best results, refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours. It’s a quick and make-ahead breakfast perfect for busy mornings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl or a mason jar, combine the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt (if you’re using it), chia seeds, ground cinnamon, and honey or maple syrup if you want it a little sweeter. Add a pinch of salt and stir well to make sure everything is evenly mixed.
2. Adding the Banana:
Take your ripe banana and slice it up. Set aside a few slices for later decoration on top. Add the remaining banana slices to the oat mixture and gently mash them with a fork to help blend the flavor throughout.
3. Preparing for Refrigeration:
If you’re using a jar, arrange some banana slices against the inside of the jar for a pretty presentation. Seal the jar tightly or cover your bowl with a lid or plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
4. Chilling Time:
Place the jar or bowl in the refrigerator and let it chill overnight, or for at least 4 hours. This helps the oats absorb all the milk and flavors.
5. Serving Your Overnight Oats:
The next morning, take your oats out of the fridge. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything up again. If the mixture looks a little thick, add a splash of milk to your desired consistency.
6. Topping It Off:
Top your oats with the reserved banana slices and a sprinkle of cinnamon. If you like a bit of crunch, add some granola or nuts on top.
7. Enjoy!
Grab your spoon and dig into your delicious, creamy Banana Cinnamon Overnight Oats! Enjoy this nutritious breakfast that’s ready when you are!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats, but keep in mind they will absorb liquid faster and result in a softer texture. Reduce the soaking time to about 2-3 hours, or adjust according to your preference.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make it vegan, simply use a plant-based milk (like almond, soy, or oat) and skip the Greek yogurt, or replace it with a non-dairy yogurt alternative. Sweeten it with maple syrup instead of honey.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, and add a splash of milk if it’s too thick.
Can I Add Other Fruits or Flavors to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in berries, apple chunks, or even nut butter for extra flavor. Vanilla extract or a dash of cocoa powder can add another layer of deliciousness, too!
