Vanilla Overnight Oats Recipe
Introduction
Vanilla Overnight Oats are a quick, nutritious breakfast option that you can prepare the night before. Creamy and lightly sweetened, this dish combines oats with Greek yogurt and vanilla for a delicious start to your day.

Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup vanilla bean Greek yogurt
- 4 tablespoons chia seeds
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 pinch salt
- 3 to 4 tablespoons vanilla protein powder (optional but recommended)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a bowl, combine the rolled oats, chia seeds, Greek yogurt, milk, vanilla extract, salt, maple syrup, and vanilla protein powder if using.
- Step 2: Mix everything well until fully combined. Cover the bowl or divide the mixture into individual containers, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Step 3: When ready to eat, top the oats with granola, chopped fruit, or berries as desired and enjoy.
Tips & Variations
- Use almond, oat, or soy milk as a dairy-free alternative.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and flavor.
- Swap maple syrup with honey or agave syrup for a different sweetness profile.
- For creamier oats, stir in a spoonful of nut butter before serving.
- If you prefer a thinner consistency, add a splash of milk before eating.
Storage
Store the prepared overnight oats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, give it a good stir before serving. You can eat them cold or warm them slightly in the microwave if preferred.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
While rolled oats work best for overnight oats, you can use quick oats in a pinch. The texture may be softer and less chewy.
Is it necessary to add chia seeds?
Chia seeds help thicken the mixture and add extra fiber and omega-3s, but they can be omitted if you prefer a lighter texture.
PrintVanilla Overnight Oats Recipe
This Vanilla Overnight Oats recipe is a creamy, nutritious, and convenient breakfast option that combines rolled oats with vanilla bean Greek yogurt, chia seeds, and a hint of maple syrup. Prepared the night before, it offers a creamy texture and naturally sweet flavor, perfect for a quick and healthy start to your day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Overnight Oats Base
- 2 cups rolled oats
- 2 cups milk (any variety, dairy or plant-based)
- 1 cup vanilla bean Greek yogurt
- 4 tablespoons chia seeds
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 pinch salt
Optional Add-ins
- 3 to 4 tablespoons vanilla protein powder (optional but recommended)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the rolled oats, chia seeds, vanilla bean Greek yogurt, milk, vanilla extract, salt, maple syrup, and vanilla protein powder if using. This mixture forms the creamy base of your overnight oats.
- Mix Thoroughly: Stir all the ingredients together until they are well combined, ensuring that the oats and chia seeds are fully incorporated with the liquids and yogurt for even soaking.
- Refrigerate: Cover the bowl or portion the mixture into individual containers. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, though overnight is best, to allow the oats and chia seeds to absorb the liquid and soften, resulting in a pudding-like consistency.
- Serve and Enjoy: When ready to eat, give the oats a good stir. Top with your favorite granola, chopped fresh fruit, berries, or nuts to add crunch and extra flavor. Serve chilled and enjoy a healthy, satisfying breakfast.
Notes
- Use rolled oats rather than instant or steel-cut oats for the best texture.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup according to your taste.
- For dairy-free or vegan options, substitute milk and yogurt with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and coconut yogurt.
- Chia seeds help thicken the mixture and add fiber, but you can reduce the quantity if you prefer a looser consistency.
- Adding vanilla protein powder boosts the protein content making this ideal for a post-workout meal.
- Overnight oats can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: overnight oats, vanilla oats, healthy breakfast, chia seeds, Greek yogurt, protein breakfast, easy meal prep

