Confession: I’ve never been a big fan of overnight oats. And I could take or leave chia seeds because of how they swell up and get mushy and stick to my teeth and the inside of the blender. BUT, the first time I tried these Vanilla Bean Overnight Oats after developing them for a local fitness studio, I had two helpings and found myself scraping the bottom of the bowl. Who woulda thought. If you are even the tiniest bit into overnight oats, you may need to try these ASAP! They’re simple and creamy with the perfect amount of vanilla flavor. (And if you like chocolate better, check out my Dark Chocolate Almond version!)
Also! Can we talk about the whole concept of overnight oats in general?! Taking 5 minutes to pour a few things into a bowl or jar, sticking it in the fridge and having breakfast just ready and waiting for you in the morning?? I so wish I had invented overnight oats. (Who did by the way? Do we know?!?) Mornings around here can get crazy, so when I remember that I made a batch of these and have them waiting in the fridge, it’s like a little mental sigh of relief. Slice some strawberries and VOILA.
These are good plain/as is but how I love them best is with the strawberries as a topping. And a little drizzle of some extra honey. Maybe a blob of almond butter but not necessary. If you like more crunch, sprinkle on a little granola or chopped nuts. There are no rules here, just delicious bowls of creamy vanilla pudding (umm, I mean oatmeal).
As if you need any more reasons to try these, let’s hit the nutrition benefits real quick before you go: Oats are a plant-based protein source (6g per ½ cup dry) and provide fiber and potassium (i.e. long-lasting energy for workouts or meetings or chasing around small humans or all of the above). I use Siggi’s Icelandic vanilla yogurt (another 15g protein, plus probiotics), vanilla protein powder (protein will vary on brand but I use Garden of Life Organic Whey version, which you can buy in small packets if you want to try first), plus chia seeds for additional texture and Omega-3s. Add in some fruit for more antioxidants and you’re on your way to a good day! Or at least we’ve done what we can to get it started right…
Last note: you can eat these all in one sitting or save half for the next day – they’ll stay good in the fridge for an extra day or two as long as they’re covered tightly. No judgment either way.
And if you’re still not into overnight oats, check out my savory sweet potato cakes or banana oat chocolate chip pancakes!
These vanilla bean overnight oats are packed with fiber, potassium, and protein, taste amazing, and are ready and waiting for you in the morning!
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 5.3 oz container Icelandic or Greek vanilla yogurt (I use Siggi's brand)
- 1 Tbsp chia seeds
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (I use Garden of Life Organic Whey)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup almond milk (or milk of choice)
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Add all ingredients to a bowl or jar, stir well, cover tightly and refrigerate overnight (or at least 2 - 3 hours). Eat! Recommended toppings: sliced strawberries (my fave!), additional drizzle of honey, almond butter, chopped nuts.
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