These Brown Sugar Overnight Oats are a tasty way to start your day! Made with oats, milk, and a sprinkle of sweet brown sugar, they’re creamy and simple to prepare the night before.
I love waking up to a delicious breakfast waiting for me in the fridge. Plus, you can top them with fruit or nuts for extra yumminess. Who knew mornings could be so easy? 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are key for a creamy texture. Quick oats can work, but they may lead to a mushier result. If you need gluten-free options, check for certified gluten-free rolled oats.
Milk: You can use any milk you like! Dairy, almond, oat, or soy milk all work well. My personal favorite is almond milk for its light flavor. Just make sure it’s unsweetened if you’re watching sugar content.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a lovely caramel flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using maple syrup or honey instead, keeping in mind that you’ll need to adjust the liquid ratio slightly.
Yogurt: Adding yogurt gives a nice creaminess and tang. If you’re dairy-free, coconut or almond yogurt are great substitutes. You can skip it entirely if you prefer a lighter dish.
Chia Seeds: These are optional but provide a nutrition boost and extra thickness. If you don’t have chia seeds, you can use flaxseeds as a substitute, or leave them out if you prefer.
How Do I Get the Perfect Consistency for Overnight Oats?
Getting the right consistency in overnight oats is all about the liquid-to-oats ratio. The oats should absorb the liquid over time for a creamy texture. Here’s how to do it:
- For every 1 cup of rolled oats, use about 1.5 to 2 cups of liquid. This helps them soften without being too mushy.
- Mix the dry and wet ingredients thoroughly. This ensures the oats absorb moisture evenly.
- After refrigerating, give the mixture a good stir before serving. This helps achieve a smoother consistency.
- Feel free to adjust the liquid based on your preferences! If you like thicker oats, use less liquid. For a thinner texture, simply add more.
How to Make Brown Sugar Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds (optional)
- 1 banana, sliced (for topping)
- Granola (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and needs to chill in the refrigerator overnight or for at least 4 hours. It’s a quick and easy breakfast you can make ahead of time for your busy mornings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, pour in the rolled oats, chia seeds (if you’re using them), brown sugar, and salt. Use a spoon to give everything a good stir, mixing it all together until it’s combined nicely.
2. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, add the milk, yogurt (if you want extra creaminess), and vanilla extract. Use a whisk to mix them together until it’s smooth and well combined.
3. Combine Both Mixtures:
Now, pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir everything together until all the oats are evenly coated and you don’t see any dry patches. It should look like a thick, creamy mixture.
4. Portion Into Containers:
Grab some jars or containers with lids (this is perfect for meal prep!). Divide the oat mixture evenly among them. You want to make sure each jar is filled up nicely with the mix.
5. Refrigerate Overnight:
Seal the jars tightly and place them in the refrigerator. Let the oats soak overnight, or at least for 4 hours, so they can absorb all the liquid and become soft and delicious.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to dig in, take the jars out of the fridge. Top each serving with some sliced banana and a sprinkle of granola to add a nice crunch. You can enjoy the oats cold or warm them up in the microwave if you prefer a cozy breakfast!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
While you can use instant oats, keep in mind that they will absorb liquid much faster and may result in a mushier texture. If you choose to use instant oats, you can reduce the soaking time to about 2-3 hours or skip overnight soaking altogether.
What Non-Dairy Milk Works Best for This Recipe?
You can use any non-dairy milk, but almond, oat, and coconut milk are popular options due to their creamy textures. If you want to add a bit of flavor, try using flavored almond or coconut milk, which can complement the brown sugar nicely!
How to Store Leftover Oats?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as the oats may thicken. You can add a splash of milk to loosen it up if needed!
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. You might add fresh berries, nuts, or a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. Just remember to adjust the sweetness to your taste, especially if you add sweet toppings!
