Banana Cinnamon Overnight Oats are a fantastic start to your day! With creamy oats, sweet banana, and a dash of cinnamon, they’re like a breakfast hug in a bowl.
I love preparing these the night before. Just mix everything in a jar, pop it in the fridge, and breakfast is ready to go! Plus, who can resist that delicious banana flavor? 🍌
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: These oats are ideal because they soak up the liquid overnight while still maintaining some texture. If you’re out of rolled oats, quick oats will work, but they will have a mushier consistency.
Chia Seeds: They not only add some health benefits but also help thicken the oats. If you’re not a fan of chia seeds, you can omit them, but I suggest adding some flaxseeds or even using extra oats instead.
Milk: You can use any milk you prefer, whether it’s cow’s milk, almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. For a creamier texture, try using whole or coconut milk. Unsweetened versions are great to keep it healthier.
Banana: Ripe bananas are naturally sweet and full of flavor! If you need a substitute, you can use unsweetened applesauce or a spoonful of nut butter for that creamy sweetness.
Cinnamon: This spice adds warmth and flavor. If you love experimenting, try adding nutmeg or a dash of pumpkin spice for a different twist!
How Do You Get the Perfect Consistency for Overnight Oats?
The key to achieving the right texture is all about the soaking time and liquid-to-oat ratio. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Mix your oats and liquid in a 1:1 ratio. For every cup of oats, use one cup of liquid.
- Keep in mind that oats and chia seeds will absorb more liquid the longer they soak. So, if you prefer a thicker texture, stick to the original soaking time!
- If the mixture is too thick in the morning, simply stir in a little more milk until you reach your desired creaminess.
Don’t hesitate to adjust based on your personal preference. Enjoy making this breakfast your own! 🥣
Banana Cinnamon Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 ripe banana, mashed (plus extra banana slices for topping)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, and then you’ll let it chill in the fridge overnight (or at least 4 hours). So, you can wake up to a delicious and nutritious breakfast without any fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a medium mixing bowl or directly in a jar, combine the rolled oats and chia seeds. This will be the foundation of your overnight oats!
2. Add the Liquid and Flavor:
Next, pour in the milk of your choice. Then, add the mashed banana, ground cinnamon, honey or maple syrup if you like it a bit sweeter, the vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. This creates a yummy flavor mixture.
3. Combine Everything:
Stir everything together really well, making sure the oats are fully coated with the liquid and flavors. This ensures every bite is delicious!
4. Chill Overnight:
Cover the bowl or jar with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight (or for at least 4 hours). This allows the oats and chia seeds to soak up the tasty mixture and soften up.
5. Stir and Adjust:
In the morning, give your oats a good stir. If they’re too thick for your liking, just add a little splash of milk to thin them out to your preferred consistency.
6. Add Your Toppings:
Slice some fresh bananas and place them on top of your oats. Add a light sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor and a beautiful presentation!
7. Enjoy Your Breakfast:
Serve your delicious Banana Cinnamon Overnight Oats right away and dig in! It’s a quick and yummy breakfast that’s good for you too!
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 create a softer texture. For best results, reduce the soaking time to about 30 minutes to an hour to achieve a good balance.
How to Make This Recipe Vegan?
Simply substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Use any plant-based milk like almond, oat, or coconut milk to keep it completely vegan!
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. You can add nuts, seeds, berries, or shredded coconut on top. Fresh fruits like strawberries or blueberries work beautifully too!
How Long Do Leftovers Last?
The leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give them a good stir before serving and add a splash of milk if needed to adjust the consistency.
