Save A creamy, nutritious breakfast featuring layers of oats, juicy fruit, and rich peanut butter, all prepared the night before for a quick and healthy start.
I first tried making these overnight oats jars on a busy weekday, and loved how easy it was to start my morning with something wholesome and filling. Layering the fruits and peanut butter makes each bite extra delicious.
Ingredients
- Rolled oats: 1 cup
- Milk (dairy or plant-based): 1 cup
- Plain yogurt (dairy or plant-based, optional): 1/2 cup
- Chia seeds: 2 teaspoons
- Honey or maple syrup: 2 teaspoons
- Fresh strawberries, sliced: 1/2 cup
- Banana, sliced: 1/2 cup
- Blueberries (or any mixed berries): 1/4 cup
- Natural peanut butter: 2 tablespoons
- Granola (optional): 2 tablespoons
- Chopped nuts (optional): 1 tablespoon
- Extra fruit (for garnish): as desired
Instructions
- Mix Oats Base:
- Combine rolled oats, milk, yogurt (if using), chia seeds, and honey or maple syrup in a medium bowl. Stir until evenly mixed.
- Layer and Assemble:
- Divide half of the oat mixture between two jars. Add sliced strawberries and bananas, then a spoonful of peanut butter to each jar.
- Finish Layers:
- Top with the remaining oat mixture. Add blueberries or mixed berries as the final fruit layer.
- Refrigerate Overnight:
- Cover jars and chill overnight (at least 6 hours).
- Serve:
- Stir gently in the morning and top with granola, chopped nuts, or extra fruit if desired. Enjoy chilled.
Save My kids love getting creative with toppings for these jars. It has become a fun weekly tradition to make them together before bedtime, choosing our favorite fruits and nut combinations.
Flavor Variations
Try adding a pinch of cinnamon, cocoa powder, or vanilla extract to the oats base for extra flavor. Swap out peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for a different taste.
Make Ahead Tips
Prep jars up to three days in advance and refrigerate until ready to eat. Keep granola or crunchy toppings separate until serving to maintain freshness.
Nutrition & Allergens
A typical serving contains about 370 calories, 13 g total fat, 48 g carbohydrates, and 12 g protein. Check oats and plant milk labels for gluten or nut traces if sensitive. Contains peanuts and possible tree nuts.
Save Enjoy these overnight oats jars straight from the fridge for a quick and nourishing start to your day. They make mornings happier and healthier—especially when shared with family.
Cooking Questions & Answers
- → Can dairy-free milk be used?
Yes, plant-based milks like almond or oat milk work well here, maintaining creaminess and flavor.
- → Is yogurt necessary in the mix?
Yogurt is optional; it adds extra creaminess but can be omitted for a lighter texture.
- → How long should the oats soak?
Soak the oats overnight or at least 6 hours to achieve a creamy, soft consistency.
- → Can other nut butters replace peanut butter?
Absolutely, almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter can be used for variety or allergy preferences.
- → What toppings enhance texture?
Granola, chopped nuts, or extra fresh fruit add crunch and flavor contrast to the creamy oats.