Overnight Oats With Water (No Milk or Yogurt)

Ingredients

• 40 g (½ cup)rolled oats
• 180 ml (¾ cup)water
• 12 g (1 tablespoon)chia seeds
• 16 g (1 tablespoon)natural peanut butter
• 5–10 ml (1–2 teaspoons)pure maple syrup or your preferred sweetener

Instructions

1. 1

   Mix the ingredients

   Put the rolled oats, water, chia seeds, peanut butter and maple syrup in a jar or bowl, then mix them together.

2. 2

   Chill overnight

   Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Stir before serving and add your favourite toppings.

What are overnight oats?

Overnight oats are rolled oats soaked in liquid in the fridge rather than cooked on the hob. The method is a simple take on the make-ahead oat breakfasts popularised by Swiss Bircher muesli, though this version uses water and no yoghurt or milk.

Chia seeds thicken the mixture as it rests, while peanut butter adds richness. It is a useful option when you want breakfast ready with little morning preparation.

Nutrition and macros by portion

The nutrition label shows one serving as written: 327 calories, 11g protein, 41g carbs, 15g fat.

The oats and maple syrup provide most of the carbohydrates, while peanut butter contributes much of the fat and some protein. Oats, chia and peanut butter all contribute protein; pair the jar with fruit for a more varied breakfast.

Why use water?

Water lets the oats and chia soften without adding dairy or another milk alternative. The peanut butter brings a creamy texture and a nutty flavour to the otherwise mild base.

Use the stated amount for a spoonable consistency; you can adjust it after chilling if you prefer looser oats.

Mix thoroughly

Chia seeds: stir them through the oats and water so they do not gather in a clump at the bottom.

Peanut butter: mix until it is distributed through the jar. If it is firm, a few extra stirs help break it up.

Give it time to set

Chill: the oats need at least 4 hours in the fridge, with overnight chilling offering a convenient make-ahead option.

Texture: the mixture should be softened and thickened when ready. Stir it before serving to redistribute the chia and peanut butter.

Sweeten to taste

Maple syrup: start with 1 teaspoon for a lightly sweet bowl, or use up to 2 teaspoons. You can also choose another sweetener, as the recipe allows.

Toppings: add them just before eating for contrast. Fresh or dried fruit, seeds or chopped nuts can all work, though they are not included in the ingredient list.

Serve it as breakfast

Eat the oats cold straight from the jar, or transfer them to a bowl. For a more substantial meal, serve them alongside fruit or another breakfast item.

Recipe notes & tips

• Use a jar with enough room to stir the mixture without spilling.
• Stir well after adding the chia seeds to help them hydrate evenly.
• Taste after chilling before adding more sweetener.
• If the oats seem too thick, stir in a little water before serving.
• Add crunchy toppings just before eating to keep their texture.

Variations

• Add banana: Mash a little ripe banana into the mixture for natural sweetness.
• Use another nut butter: Swap in almond or cashew butter for a different flavour.
• Add cinnamon: Stir in a pinch before chilling for a warm spice note.
• Top with berries: Add fresh berries just before serving for a fruity contrast.
• Try cocoa: Mix in a little cocoa powder for a chocolate-flavoured bowl.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Skipping the stir: Chia can settle or clump; mix the ingredients thoroughly before chilling.
• Eating too soon: The oats need at least 4 hours to soften, so give them enough time.
• Adding too much liquid: Pour in extra water gradually after chilling until the texture suits you.
• Expecting cooked-oat texture: These oats soften in the fridge but remain distinct rather than becoming porridge.
• Adding crunchy toppings early: They can lose their crunch while refrigerated; add them at serving time.

How to store

Keep covered in the fridge and eat within 2 days for the best texture. Stir before serving; these oats are intended to be eaten cold, but you can warm them gently if preferred.

Frequently asked questions