If you’re looking for a nutritious, meal-prep breakfast that never gets boring, Classic Vanilla Overnight Oats is about to become your new obsession. This simple recipe blends creamy Greek yogurt, hearty oats, a touch of sweet maple syrup, and — of course — pure vanilla extract, creating a satisfying and wholesome start to any day. Each spoonful is indulgently creamy and beautifully balanced, while fresh fruit and crunchy nuts on top make every bowl both comforting and delicious. Classic Vanilla Overnight Oats is the perfect way to make healthy mornings taste like a treat.

Classic Vanilla Overnight Oats Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe pulls its weight — you won’t be wrestling with obscure pantry staples here! The combination below brings both flavor and texture, making Classic Vanilla Overnight Oats an irresistible staple in your breakfast rotation.

Old-fashioned rolled oats: These create the ideal creamy-yet-toothy base; avoid quick oats for best texture.
Unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice): Adds moisture without overpowering flavor, so your vanilla and oats shine through.
Plain Greek yogurt: Brings body, creaminess, and a nice protein boost that keeps you satisfied longer.
Chia seeds: Provide fiber and help thicken the oats to that pudding-like texture everyone loves.
Pure maple syrup or honey: A natural sweetener that adds just the right touch of richness; adjust to taste.
Pure vanilla extract: This star ingredient brings warmth and classic flavor to the oats.
Pinch of salt: It may seem small, but this brings all the flavors into harmony and keeps the oats from tasting flat.
Fresh fruit and nuts for topping (optional): These add color, flavor, and crunch for a breakfast that always feels special.

How to Make Classic Vanilla Overnight Oats

Step 1: Gather and Measure Your Ingredients

Start by assembling all the ingredients on your kitchen counter. Grab a medium bowl or a large jar, your measuring cups, and spoons. Getting everything set up before you start mixing saves you time in the long run and ensures that you don’t forget any key components of these Classic Vanilla Overnight Oats.

Step 2: Combine Oats, Milk, and Yogurt

Pour the rolled oats into your bowl or jar, then add the almond milk and Greek yogurt. Give this trio a good stir. You want to make sure the oats are completely coated — this is what creates the creamy consistency overnight.

Step 3: Add Chia Seeds, Sweetener, and Vanilla

Sprinkle in the chia seeds, drizzle the maple syrup or honey, and pour in the pure vanilla extract. The chia seeds will soak up liquid as the oats chill, turning everything into a perfectly thickened breakfast treat. Don’t forget the pinch of salt; it truly brings out the best in the oats’ flavor.

Step 4: Mix Thoroughly and Cover

Use a spoon or spatula to stir everything together until you see no streaks of yogurt or dry oats. If you’re using a jar, screw on the lid tightly. For bowls, cover securely with plastic wrap or a reusable lid, so your Classic Vanilla Overnight Oats stay fresh and absorb all that creamy flavor as they rest in the fridge.

Step 5: Refrigerate Overnight

Pop your oats into the fridge and let them chill for at least four hours, but overnight is ideal. This resting time allows the oats to soften and the flavors to meld, turning even the simplest breakfast into something extraordinary come morning.

Step 6: Stir, Adjust, and Top

In the morning, give your oats a good stir. If they’re thicker than you’d like, add a splash of milk until you hit your preferred consistency. Then comes the fun part — load up your Classic Vanilla Overnight Oats with fresh fruit, a sprinkle of nuts, or anything else you love before digging in.

How to Serve Classic Vanilla Overnight Oats

Garnishes

The toppings make all the difference when serving Classic Vanilla Overnight Oats. Try sliced fresh berries, bananas, toasted coconut flakes, or a handful of your favorite nuts for added crunch. You can even drizzle on a little extra maple syrup or a spoonful of nut butter for an extra splash of flavor.

Side Dishes

Pairing your overnight oats with a side of hot coffee, a smoothie, or even some crisp apple slices will round out your breakfast perfectly. If you’re sharing a brunch spread, these oats are delicious alongside mini frittatas or a simple fruit salad.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Classic Vanilla Overnight Oats in individual mason jars for an easy on-the-go breakfast or layer oats and fruit in clear glasses for a pretty parfait that’s brunch-ready. For family breakfasts, set up a toppings bar so everyone can customize their own bowl.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Classic Vanilla Overnight Oats are wonderfully meal-prep friendly. Store leftovers in a sealed jar or airtight container in the fridge, and they’ll stay creamy and fresh for up to three days. Just give the oats a good stir before each serving — the texture may even improve on day two!

Freezing

While you can technically freeze overnight oats, the texture might change slightly due to the yogurt and chia seeds. If you need to freeze them, use freezer-safe jars and leave a little room for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before eating for the best result.

Reheating

Although Classic Vanilla Overnight Oats are traditionally served cold, you can gently warm them if you like a cozy breakfast. Use the microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring in between, until they reach your desired temperature. Add a splash of milk to keep them creamy.

FAQs

Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?

Steel-cut oats require a much longer soak and will stay quite chewy. For classic overnight oats texture, stick to old-fashioned rolled oats, but you can experiment with steel-cut if you prefer a denser, chewier bowl.

Is it possible to make Classic Vanilla Overnight Oats dairy free?

Absolutely! Swap in your favorite non-dairy yogurt alternative (like coconut or almond yogurt) and use a plant-based milk. The oats will remain just as creamy and delicious.

How do I adjust the sweetness?

This recipe is very forgiving. Start with the recommended amount of maple syrup or honey and taste after mixing. Add more if you love things a tad sweeter, or reduce for a more subtly flavored bowl.

Can I double or triple the recipe for meal prep?

Yes, make a big batch by simply multiplying the ingredients accordingly. Portion out into separate jars or containers so each serving is ready to grab and go each morning.

What can I use instead of chia seeds?

If you don’t have chia seeds on hand, try ground flaxseed for similar thickening power and a nutritional boost. You can also skip them altogether, but the oats will be a little looser in texture.

Final Thoughts

Breakfast has never been easier or more delicious than with Classic Vanilla Overnight Oats. If you’ve never tried making your oats ahead, now’s the time! This is one feel-good recipe you’ll come back to week after week, so gather your favorite toppings and let mornings become a little brighter and a whole lot tastier.

Classic Vanilla Overnight Oats Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 16 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 5 minutes (plus overnight chilling)
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Start your day right with these delicious Classic Vanilla Overnight Oats. Creamy, nutritious, and customizable, these oats are a perfect make-ahead breakfast option for busy mornings.

Ingredients

Scale

Oats:

1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats

Liquid:

1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)

Yogurt:

1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

Additional:

1 tablespoon chia seeds
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup or honey
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Fresh fruit and nuts for topping (optional)

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Instructions

Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl or jar, mix together oats, almond milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt.
Refrigerate: Cover and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours.
Enjoy: In the morning, stir well, adjust consistency with milk if needed, and top with fruit, nuts, or other toppings.