Brown Sugar Overnight Oats
A cozy, make-ahead breakfast featuring nutty toasted oats, creamy chia seeds, and the warm sweetness of maple and brown sugar. The perfect, effortless start to any busy morning.
Equipment
- Small skillet
- 16-ounce mason jar with lid
Ingredients
Overnight Oats Base:
- ½ cup old fashioned rolled oats
- ¾ to 1 cup low-fat milk, or dairy-free milk
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
Maple Brown Sugar:
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon light brown sugar
Instructions
Toast the Oats
- Set a small dry skillet over medium heat and add the old fashioned rolled oats. Stir frequently for 3 to 5 minutes, until they are lightly golden and smell nutty. Remove from the heat immediately.
Build the Jar
- Spoon the toasted oats into a 16-ounce mason jar. Pour in the milk and add the chia seeds, then stir to combine.
- Add the maple syrup and light brown sugar. Stir again, mixing thoroughly to ensure the sugar dissolves and there are no clumps of chia seeds.
Chill Overnight
- Seal the jar tightly and place it in the refrigerator overnight, or for at least 5 hours. This allows the oats to soften and the mixture to thicken.
Stir and Serve
- The next morning, give the oats a good stir to loosen the texture. Enjoy them cold directly from the jar, or warm them in the microwave for about 1 minute, stirring halfway through, for a creamier consistency.
Notes
Texture Tip: For thicker, pudding-like oats, use ¾ cup of milk. For a looser, creamier consistency, use the full 1 cup.
Storage: Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If the oats become too thick, stir in a splash of milk before serving.
Serving Suggestion: Top with sliced bananas, berries, toasted nuts, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added texture and flavor.
Oat Choice: Always use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best creamy yet chewy texture. Quick oats can become mushy, and steel-cut oats will remain too firm.
Nutrition information is estimated based on common ingredients and serving sizes and may vary.