Description
Banana Chia Overnight Oats with Warm Syrup. This make-ahead breakfast is creamy, healthy, sweet, and ridiculously easy to prepare. Oh, and did I mention it tastes like banana bread in a bowl? With a prep time of just 5 minutes (yes, really!), this oatmeal parfait is an easy way to start your day.
Ingredients
2 bananas, mashed
1 cup old-fashioned rolled oatmeal
2-3 teaspoons chia seeds
1 cup milk of choice (for a vegan option I would recommend unsweetened almond milk)
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt)
1 teaspoon maple syrup (plus 2 teaspoons for garnish)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
pinch of salt
pinch of cinnamon
Instructions
In a medium-sized bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Stir in the oats, chia seeds, almond milk, yogurt, maple syrup, vanilla extract, almond extract, sea salt, and cinnamon (if using). Mix well.
Cover the bowl or divide the mixture into individual jars. Pop it in the fridge and let it chill for at least 6 hours, or overnight.
In the morning, gently warm the maple syrup in a small saucepan or microwave.
Give your oats a quick stir and spoon into bowls or glasses. Drizzle the warm maple syrup over the top and enjoy your ready-to-eat oatmeal.
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Notes
Mash Bananas Thoroughly: For the smoothest texture, make sure your bananas are mashed completely. Overripe bananas work best because they’re naturally sweeter and softer.
Choose the Right Oats: Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best consistency. Quick oats can turn mushy, and steel-cut oats won’t soften enough overnight.
Don’t Skip the Chia Seeds: These tiny seeds are the secret to thickening your oats and adding a boost of omega-3s and fiber. Make sure to mix them evenly to avoid clumps.
Warm the Syrup Just Right: Slightly warmed maple syrup adds a cozy, luxurious touch. Don’t overheat it—lukewarm is perfect for drizzling.
Experiment with Milk Options: While almond milk keeps it light, you can try coconut milk for a creamier texture or oat milk for extra flavor.
Re-stir Before Serving: Chia seeds can cause the mixture to settle overnight, so give your oats a quick stir in the morning to redistribute everything.
Keep It Dairy-Free: Substitute Greek yogurt with coconut or almond yogurt for a vegan-friendly version.
Refrigeration: Store the prepared oats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, as chia seeds may settle.
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American