Overnight Oats without Yogurt

Ingredients

• 180 g (2 cups)rolled oats
• 480 ml (2 cups)milk
• 48 g (4 tablespoons)chia seeds
• 10 ml (2 teaspoons)vanilla extract
• 30–45 ml (2–3 tablespoons)maple syrup
• 1 pinchsalt
• 32 g (4 tablespoons)vanilla protein powder
• 32 g (2 tablespoons)peanut butter

Instructions

1. 1

   Combine ingredients

   Put the rolled oats, chia seeds, milk, vanilla extract, salt, maple syrup, vanilla protein powder and peanut butter in a bowl.

2. 2

   Mix and chill

   Stir until everything is well combined. Cover the bowl, or divide the mixture between individual containers, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

3. 3

   Add toppings

   When ready to eat, top with granola, chopped fruit or berries, if you like, and enjoy.

What are overnight oats?

Overnight oats are rolled oats softened in liquid in the fridge rather than cooked on the hob. This American-style breakfast is convenient to prepare ahead and serve cold.

Here, chia seeds help thicken the milk, while vanilla protein powder and peanut butter add flavour and richness without yoghurt.

Nutrition and macros by portion

The nutrition label shows one serving as written: 405 calories, 22g protein, 50g carbs, 14g fat.

The oats and maple syrup provide most of the carbohydrates, while peanut butter contributes much of the fat. Milk, protein powder, oats and chia seeds all contribute protein. Serve with fruit for a fresh contrast, or choose a modest amount of granola if you want extra crunch.

Why these ingredients work

Rolled oats: they soften during chilling but keep some chew, giving the mixture its hearty texture.

Chia and protein powder: the seeds absorb liquid and help the oats set, while protein powder makes the mixture more substantial. Stir thoroughly so the powder is evenly distributed.

Getting the texture right

Mix well: scrape around the bottom and sides of the bowl so no dry oats, protein powder or peanut butter are left in clumps.

Chill fully: the oats need at least 4 hours in the fridge, with an overnight rest preferred. The mixture will become thicker as the oats and chia seeds absorb the milk.

Sweetness and flavour

Maple syrup: use 2 tablespoons for a less sweet result or up to 3 tablespoons for more sweetness. The vanilla extract and vanilla protein powder also contribute to the flavour.

Peanut butter: mixing it through gives the oats a nutty note. If it is firm, stir patiently until it is incorporated rather than leaving a large lump.

Make-ahead portions

Individual containers: divide the mixture before chilling if you want ready-to-eat portions. This also makes it easy to add different toppings to each serving.

Timing: the hands-on method is brief, but allow at least 4 hours for chilling; overnight is the preferred option. Add toppings when serving so they stay distinct from the oats.

Toppings and serving ideas

Fruit: chopped fruit or berries bring freshness and a soft contrast to the chewy oats. Granola adds crunch if you want a more textured topping.

For a fuller breakfast, serve alongside a piece of fruit or another topping you enjoy. Add toppings just before eating.

Recipe notes & tips

• Use a lidded container if you are portioning the mixture for several breakfasts.
• Stir carefully around the base of the bowl to incorporate the protein powder.
• Choose the lower or higher amount of maple syrup to suit your preferred sweetness.
• Give the mixture the full chilling time so the oats and chia seeds can absorb the milk.
• Add granola, fruit or berries just before eating for a clearer contrast in texture.

Variations

• Berry topping: add fresh or frozen berries when serving.
• Fruit topping: scatter chopped fruit over the oats just before eating.
• Crunchy finish: add granola at the table to keep it crisp.
• Less sweet: use 2 tablespoons of maple syrup.
• More peanut flavour: swirl a little extra peanut butter through the oats before chilling.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Uneven mixing: stir thoroughly so the protein powder and peanut butter are distributed throughout.
• Short chilling: leave the mixture in the fridge for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
• Dry powder clumps: scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl as you mix.
• Adding granola too early: scatter it over the oats just before serving so it retains its crunch.
• Too much sweetness: start with 2 tablespoons of maple syrup and use up to 3 if preferred.

How to store

Keep the covered oats refrigerated and eat them within 3 days for best texture. Serve cold; stir before eating and add toppings at the time of serving.

Frequently asked questions