Overnight Oatmeal

5 from 1 vote

This recipe can be made and refrigerated overnight or hot from the pot early in the morning. The refrigerator option can easily be heated before serving, too. Experiment with the dry ingredients, but keep the liquid quantities the same for ultimate absorption. Be sure to use regular oats, not instant or quick oats.

Course: Breakfast

Servings:

Calories: 241kcal

Author: Good Dinner Mom

Ingredients

2 cups rolled oats, not instant or quick cooking
2 Tablespoons chia seeds
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon, more or less as desired
2 Tablespoons shredded coconut, preferably unsweetened
2 Tablespoons pure maple syrup
1- 14 oz. can coconut milk, lite or regular
1 cup unsweetened almond milk
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Garnishes:

Strawberries, blueberries, mangos or other fruit of choice
Almonds, walnuts or hazelnuts
Sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds or flax
Additional coconut mini chocolate chips
Additional coconut milk, maple syrup or cream

Cook's Note:

The ingredients above are for a vegan option. Feel free to substitute the coconut and almond milk for regular whole milk. However the coconut and almond milk add a fabulous flavor to the oatmeal.

Instructions

For Overnight Oats:

In a large container with a tight-fitting lid, add 2 cups rolled oats, 2 Tablespoons chia seeds, ¼ teaspoon cinnamon, 2 Tablespoons coconut, 2 Tablespoons syrup, 14 ounces coconut milk, 1 cup almond milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla and stir well. Seal and place in the refrigerator overnight, or at least for 6 hours.

For the hot, quick version:

In a medium sauce pan, add everything EXCEPT the vanilla extract, heat over medium-high heat.
Bring to a full boil, then reduce heat and simmer 15 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally until oatmeal has thickened and the liquid has been mostly absorbed.
Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Divide between four bowls and top with garnishes, as desired.

For heating the overnight oatmeal:

Using your preferred method, either:
Place oatmeal in a medium sauce pan and heat over low heat, stirring occasionally until oatmeal is to desired temperature. If oatmeal becomes too dry, add more coconut milk till desired consistency is reached. Don't add too much because you want it thick and you can always add more milk during garnish. Or,
Place oatmeal in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 30 second intervals until desired heat is reached.

Nutrition