Creamy, customizable, and packed with over 40g of protein per serving—this easy make-ahead breakfast is perfect for busy mornings.
Overnight oats are my favorite way to start the day, especially when things get hectic. They’re quick to prepare, super satisfying, and endlessly customizable. In the warmer months, I swap my usual warm oatmeal for these chilled, creamy oats that deliver a refreshing bite with a big boost of protein—over 40 grams per serving!
With just a few wholesome ingredients—rolled oats, protein powder, milk, chia seeds, and Greek yogurt—you can prep this healthy breakfast in 5 minutes. And the best part? There are over 10 delicious flavor combos to keep your mornings exciting all week long.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Protein-Packed – Over 40g of protein per serving to fuel your day.
- Wholesome & Healthy – Made with simple, nourishing ingredients.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 5 minutes.
- Customizable – Use your favorite milk, protein powder, and mix-ins.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a batch for the whole week.
- Flavor Variety – Apple pie, banana bread, PB&J, and more!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Base Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk you prefer)
- ¼ cup plain or vanilla Greek yogurt (use a dairy-free alternative to make it vegan)
- ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
- 1 scoop vanilla or unflavored protein powder (whey, pea, or plant-based)
- ½ tablespoon chia seeds
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping & Flavor Ideas:
- Fresh or dried fruit, nut butter, cinnamon, coconut, apples, berries—you name it!
How to Make High-Protein Overnight Oats
Step 1 – Combine Ingredients:
In a mason jar or sealed container, stir together all base ingredients until well combined. Make sure the oats are fully submerged in milk. Add a splash more if needed.
Step 2 – Choose a Flavor:
Pick your favorite flavor combo from below and mix those ingredients in with the base.
Step 3 – Chill Overnight:
Seal your jar or container and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight. In the morning, stir and top with extra milk and toppings if desired.
Expert Tips for Success
- Mix Well: Fully dissolve the protein powder to prevent clumps.
- Adjust Liquid: If the mixture looks dry, add a bit more milk.
- Stir Before Serving: Overnight oats thicken—stir and loosen with milk in the morning.
- Use Any Protein: Whey, pea, or plant-based protein powders all work well.
- Flavor Variety: Prep different flavors to avoid getting bored!
Flavor Variations
🍎 Apple Pie
¼–⅓ cup diced apples + 1–2 tbsp maple syrup or honey + 1 tsp cinnamon + pecans for topping
🍌 Banana Bread
½ mashed ripe banana + 1 tsp cinnamon + chocolate chips + banana slices on top
🥜 Peanut Butter & Jelly
1–2 tbsp peanut butter + ¼ cup fresh strawberries (or jam) + extra ¼ cup almond milk
🍑 Peaches ’n Cream
¼ diced peach + 1–2 tbsp maple syrup + 1 tsp cinnamon + extra ¼ cup almond milk
🎃 Pumpkin Spice Latte
¼ cup pumpkin purée + 1–2 tbsp maple syrup or honey + ¾ tsp pumpkin spice + chocolate chips
🥥 Coconut Bliss
1–2 tbsp shredded coconut + sliced banana for topping
🥜 Almond Butter
Swap peanut butter for almond butter for a rich, smooth flavor
🍓 Berry Bliss
Add fresh or frozen berries for a sweet, fruity version
🌻 Sun Butter & Jelly
Use sunflower seed butter if nut-free + diced fruit or jam
FAQs
What type of oats work best?
Old-fashioned rolled oats are ideal for texture. Quick oats are softer, and steel-cut oats are not recommended.
Can I use any protein powder?
Yes—whey, pea, or other plant-based protein powders all work. Stick to vanilla or unflavored for versatility.
Are overnight oats healthy?
Definitely! These are high in protein and fiber, naturally gluten-free, and full of healthy fats to keep you full and energized.
Can I heat overnight oats?
Yes. While delicious cold, they can be microwaved for 30–60 seconds if you prefer them warm.
Can I freeze overnight oats?
Yes! Freeze in single portions and thaw overnight in the fridge. Add fresh toppings before serving.
How long do they last in the fridge?
Overnight oats stay fresh for up to 5 days—perfect for meal prepping a week’s worth of breakfast.