Banana Split Overnight Oats is a fun and tasty way to start your day! Packed with creamy oats, ripe bananas, and a touch of chocolate, it feels like dessert for breakfast!
I love making this the night before. Just mix everything up and let the fridge do the work. Plus, who wouldn’t want a breakfast that looks like a sundae? 🍌🍫
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are perfect for overnight oats since they soak up the liquid well without getting mushy. You can use quick oats, but they may become too mushy. Steel-cut oats can also work, but you might need to adjust the soaking time.
Milk: Any kind of milk works, whether it’s dairy, almond, oat, or soy. My go-to is almond milk for its light flavor. If you’re looking to avoid dairy, plant-based milks are a great choice!
Greek Yogurt: It adds creaminess and protein! If you want a dairy-free option, you can use coconut yogurt or leave it out entirely. It will still taste good without it.
Chia Seeds: These are optional, but they help make the oats thicker and add some extra fiber. If you don’t have them, you can skip them or use ground flaxseed instead.
Nut Butter: I love peanut butter for its rich flavor, but almond butter or sunflower seed butter are excellent alternatives. Just pick your favorite nut butter or whatever you have on hand!
How Do I Ensure My Overnight Oats Are Perfectly Creamy?
Making sure your oats have the right texture is key to a delicious breakfast. Here’s how to keep them creamy:
- Mix all liquid ingredients with the oats well before refrigerating. This ensures they absorb evenly.
- Consider adding some Greek yogurt for extra creaminess; just stir it in when mixing.
- Chia seeds can help absorb extra liquid, making everything thicker. If you use them, make sure to stir them in well.
- If your oats feel too thick in the morning, just add a splash of milk to get the right consistency.
With these tips in mind, you’re on your way to enjoying delicious, creamy overnight oats every time!
Banana Split Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for thickness)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ripe banana (sliced; half for mixing, half for topping)
- 4-5 fresh strawberries, sliced (half for mixing, half for topping)
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter or almond butter (or nut butter of choice)
- 1 tablespoon dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
- A pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is quick to prepare, taking about 10 minutes of prep time. Just mix everything together, and then let it chill in the fridge overnight (or at least 6 hours). In the morning, you’ll have a delicious, convenient breakfast ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients:
In a bowl or jar, mix together the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt (if using), chia seeds, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until everything is nicely combined.
2. Add Fruits:
Slice half of the banana and half of the strawberries. Gently fold them into the oat mixture, making sure to distribute them evenly.
3. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover the jar or bowl tightly with a lid or plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator overnight (or for at least 6 hours) so the oats can soak up the liquid and soften.
4. Stir and Adjust Consistency:
The next morning, take the oats out of the fridge and give them a good stir. If you find the mix is too thick for your liking, feel free to add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
5. Top Your Oats:
Slice the remaining banana and strawberries. Layer or arrange them on top of the soaked oats to make it look pretty!
6. Drizzle with Nut Butter:
Drizzle the peanut butter (or your chosen nut butter) over the top of the oats. For an easier drizzle, you can warm the peanut butter slightly in the microwave until it’s runnier.
7. Add Chocolate:
Finally, sprinkle the dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate over the top for that indulgent touch.
8. Time to Enjoy:
Dig in with a spoon and enjoy your creamy, fruity, and chocolatey breakfast. It’s like having a banana split but healthy!
This recipe brings together all the classic flavors of a banana split while giving you a nutritious, make-ahead breakfast option that’s perfect for busy mornings!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats, but keep in mind that they will absorb liquid faster and may yield a creamier texture. Just reduce the soaking time to about 4-5 hours instead of overnight if you choose to go with instant oats.
How to Store Leftover Overnight Oats?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give them a good stir before eating, and feel free to add a splash of milk if they’ve thickened too much.
Can I Substitute the Fruit?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches. Just keep in mind that some fruits, like apples, may need to be cooked slightly to soften them before mixing.
Is It Possible to Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, simply use plant-based milk and substitute dairy yogurt with coconut yogurt or omit it altogether. Also, use maple syrup instead of honey for a fully vegan option.
