Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Brown Sugar Overnight Oats are a cozy, hearty breakfast perfect for busy mornings or as a meal prep option. The natural sweetness from ripe bananas, rich brown sugar, and a touch of cinnamon create a comforting flavor that is perfect to enjoy any time of day. Plus, with the ease of making them the night before, it’s an ideal breakfast to grab and go.
Here are a few reasons why you’ll love this recipe:
- No yogurt needed: The oats get their creamy texture from mashed bananas, so no dairy or yogurt is required.
- Cozy, comforting flavors: Brown sugar, cinnamon, and banana come together for a deliciously warm and sweet breakfast.
- Meal prep-friendly: Make a batch and enjoy it throughout the week—great for busy mornings.
- Simple ingredients: Most ingredients are pantry staples, making this an easy recipe to put together.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious oats:
- 2 cups rolled oats – Old-fashioned oats work best for texture.
- 4 tbsp chia seeds – Help thicken the oats and add protein + fiber.
- 3–4 tbsp brown sugar – Adds rich, molasses-like sweetness.
- 1 cup mashed banana – About 2 ripe bananas for natural creaminess and flavor.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Optional, but adds a lovely depth.
- 1 pinch salt – Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- ¼ tsp cinnamon – Or more, if you love that warm spice.
- 2 cups milk – Use any dairy or non-dairy milk you like!
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, stir together oats, chia seeds, brown sugar, mashed banana, cinnamon, salt, and milk until well combined.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Serve: Before serving, top with sliced bananas, granola, or a drizzle of maple syrup for extra flavor.
Servings and Timing
This recipe yields about 4 servings.
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Chill time: At least 4 hours, preferably overnight
- Total time: Approximately 4 hours 10 minutes (including chilling time)
Variations
- Sweeten it up: Add a sprinkle of brown sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup before serving for extra sweetness.
- Upgrade the toppings: Try caramelized bananas, nuts, or a spoonful of peanut butter or almond butter.
- Flavor twist: Add a handful of dried fruit or fresh berries for a fruity boost. You can also stir in a spoonful of nut butter for a richer flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Fridge: Store in airtight containers for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
- Reheating: If you prefer warm oats, simply microwave them for a few seconds until heated through. Add a splash of milk if they’ve thickened too much.
FAQs
Do I have to eat overnight oats cold?
Not at all! You can warm them up in the microwave if you prefer a hot breakfast.
Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
Steel-cut oats can be used, but they need a longer soaking time and will have a chewier texture compared to rolled oats.
What are chia seeds good for?
Chia seeds are packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats, which help thicken the oats and keep you feeling full longer.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Just substitute the milk with any non-dairy milk of your choice, such as almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk.
How can I make the oats sweeter?
If you like your oats sweeter, feel free to add more brown sugar, maple syrup, or even a dash of honey.
Can I make this recipe without bananas?
Bananas add natural creaminess and sweetness, but you can substitute with unsweetened applesauce or a different fruit puree if you prefer.
How can I make these oats more filling?
Add nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans, or top with nut butter for added protein and healthy fats.
Can I make these oats in individual servings?
Absolutely! You can portion the oats into mason jars or small containers for easy grab-and-go breakfasts.
Can I use a different spice instead of cinnamon?
Yes! Feel free to use nutmeg, cardamom, or a pumpkin spice blend for a different flavor profile.
How long do overnight oats last in the fridge?
These oats will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days, making them a great option for meal prep.
Conclusion
Brown Sugar Overnight Oats are a simple yet delicious breakfast that is both comforting and nutritious. With their naturally sweet flavor and creamy texture, they’re a perfect meal prep option for busy mornings. You can make them ahead of time and store them in the fridge for several days, making it easy to enjoy a wholesome breakfast anytime. Whether you enjoy them as is or customize them with toppings, these oats will quickly become a breakfast favorite!
Brown Sugar Overnight Oats (No Yogurt Needed!)
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Brown Sugar Overnight Oats are a naturally sweetened, creamy breakfast that combines the richness of brown sugar, cinnamon, and ripe bananas. Easy to make ahead and customizable, these oats offer a comforting, fuss-free meal that’s perfect for busy mornings.
Ingredients
2 cups rolled oats – Old-fashioned oats work best for texture.
4 tbsp chia seeds – Help thicken the oats and add protein + fiber.
3–4 tbsp brown sugar – Adds rich, molasses-like sweetness.
1 cup mashed banana – About 2 ripe bananas for natural creaminess and flavor.
1 tsp vanilla extract – Optional, but adds a lovely depth.
1 pinch salt – Balances and enhances all the flavors.
¼ tsp cinnamon – Or more, if you love that warm spice.
2 cups milk – Use any dairy or non-dairy milk you like!
Instructions
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, stir together oats, chia seeds, brown sugar, mashed banana, cinnamon, salt, and milk until well combined.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Serve: Before serving, top with sliced bananas, granola, or a drizzle of maple syrup for extra flavor.
Notes
For added sweetness, sprinkle extra brown sugar or drizzle maple syrup before serving.
Try topping with caramelized bananas, nuts, or nut butter for a richer taste.
For a fruity boost, add dried fruit or fresh berries to the oats.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approx. 230 kcal
- Sugar: Varies based on sweetness preference
- Sodium: Varies
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: Varies
- Unsaturated Fat: Varies
- Trans Fat: Varies
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: Varies
