This Overnight Steel Cut Oats recipe is a game-changer for busy mornings, offering a healthy, no-cook breakfast that’s both delicious and nourishing.
What makes it special is its simplicity—you only need 5 minutes of prep time, and the fridge does the rest.
Steel cut oats are a fantastic source of fiber, supporting digestion and providing long-lasting energy throughout the day.
Paired with almond milk and Greek yogurt, this recipe delivers plant-based protein with minimal saturated fat, making it a heart-healthy choice.
The natural sweetness of maple syrup keeps it refined sugar-free, while cinnamon adds antioxidants and a cozy flavor boost.
Perfect for meal prep, these oats are ready to grab and go, keeping you full and fueled without the morning hassle.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Ball Wide-Mouth Mason Jars (16 oz)
Ideal for mixing, storing, and serving overnight oats. Their airtight lids keep your oats fresh for days, making meal prep a breeze.
OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Measuring Cups
Ensure precise measurements of oats, milk, and spices for perfectly balanced flavor and texture every time.
OXO Good Grips Silicone Spatula
Perfect for scraping every last bit of yogurt or syrup into your jar, reducing waste and making cleanup effortless.
Pyrex Glass Mixing Bowl (1-Qt)
Great for combining ingredients before portioning into jars. Durable and microwave-safe, it’s a versatile must-have for many kitchen tasks.
Cuisipro Mini Whisk
Helps blend oats, milk, and flavorings evenly, preventing clumps and ensuring a creamy, smooth texture.
Overnight Steel-Cut Oats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Your Base: In a medium-sized mixing bowl or jar, add the steel cut oats. These oats will slowly soften overnight, creating a chewy yet creamy texture without cooking.
- Add Liquids and Creaminess: Pour the almond milk over the oats, followed by Greek yogurt if using. This combination gives the oats a smooth, rich consistency and adds a boost of protein to keep you full longer.
- Sweeten and Spice: Stir in the maple syrup and sprinkle in the cinnamon. These ingredients bring natural sweetness and comforting flavor without the need for refined sugar.
- Mix Thoroughly: Using a small whisk or spoon, stir until all ingredients are well combined, making sure the oats are fully coated with the liquid. This ensures even softening overnight.
- Seal and Refrigerate: Transfer the mixture into an airtight mason jar or container. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 12 hours or overnight to allow the oats to soak, soften, and develop flavor.
- Stir and Serve: In the morning, give the oats a quick stir before eating. Enjoy them cold, or briefly warm them in the microwave if you prefer a cozy breakfast. Top with fresh fruit, nuts, or seeds for added crunch and nutrition.
Notes
- Texture Tip: Steel cut oats will stay slightly chewy compared to rolled oats, making this recipe heartier and more filling.
- Dairy-Free Option: Skip the Greek yogurt or replace it with a plant-based alternative for a completely vegan version.
- Sweetness Adjustments: You can substitute honey, agave, or a few drops of liquid stevia for a different flavor profile.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe keeps well for up to 4–5 days in the fridge, making it ideal for prepping multiple breakfasts ahead of time.
- Flavor Variations: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract, a handful of berries, or a spoonful of nut butter to customize your oats.
Chef’s Top Secrets For Success
Creating perfect overnight steel cut oats is all about the balance between soaking time and ingredient ratios. The key is to use enough liquid to soften the oats fully without turning them into mush.
Opt for unsweetened almond milk or any plant-based milk to keep the flavor light and allow the oats’ natural nuttiness to shine.
Adding Greek yogurt not only thickens the mixture but also contributes a subtle tang and protein boost—just be sure to mix it in thoroughly to avoid lumps.
For extra creaminess, try stirring the oats halfway through the soaking process.
Lastly, don’t rush the soaking time—allow a minimum of 12 hours for the oats to soften properly; overnight is best.
This slow soak replicates the effect of cooking, providing a satisfying texture that’s tender yet chewy.
Creative Serving Suggestions To Try
Overnight steel cut oats are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of toppings and mix-ins.
Start with fresh fruit such as berries, sliced bananas, or diced apples to add natural sweetness and a refreshing contrast.
Nuts and seeds like almonds, walnuts, or chia seeds add a delightful crunch and healthy fats.
Drizzle a little extra maple syrup or a spoonful of nut butter for added richness.
For a cozy twist, sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes or dark chocolate shavings. If you like a bit of zest, a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile.
These oats can be enjoyed cold right from the fridge or gently warmed for a comforting start to your day.
Best Storage Practices And Tips
This overnight oats recipe is a meal prep superstar because it keeps well in the fridge for several days.
Store your oats in airtight containers or mason jars to preserve freshness and prevent odors from other foods in the refrigerator.
Properly stored, the oats remain safe and tasty for up to 4–5 days.
Avoid freezing the mixture, as the texture may become grainy when thawed.
If you want to prep multiple servings at once, portion them into single-serve jars for grab-and-go convenience.
Before eating, simply stir the oats to redistribute any separated liquid.
If desired, reheat briefly in the microwave or enjoy cold as a refreshing breakfast or snack.
Common Questions Answered Clearly
1. Can I use rolled oats instead?
Yes, rolled oats work well for overnight oats and soak up liquid faster, resulting in a softer texture. However, steel cut oats give a heartier chew and nuttier flavor.
2. Is Greek yogurt necessary?
Greek yogurt is optional but recommended for extra creaminess and protein. You can omit it or substitute with a plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free version.
3. How sweet is this recipe?
The recipe uses maple syrup for natural sweetness, but you can adjust the amount or substitute with honey, agave, or a sugar-free sweetener to suit your taste.
4. Can I prepare this without refrigeration?
No, the oats must be refrigerated during soaking to soften properly and prevent bacterial growth.
5. How do I make this recipe vegan?
Use plant-based milk and skip the Greek yogurt or replace it with a vegan yogurt alternative to keep it fully vegan-friendly.
This recipe has been adapted and simplified from the original version by jaroflemons. We’ve refined the steps for a smoother cooking experience and added helpful notes, nutrition insights, and essential kitchen tools to make it even easier for home cooks.
Jessica T. Brown is the founder of KitchenHush.com, a platform born out of her deep love for cooking and the quiet joy found in the kitchen. From a young age, Jessica discovered that the kitchen wasn’t just a place to prepare meals—it was a space for connection, creativity, and comfort. Inspired by those early memories, she created Kitchen Hush to share that experience with home cooks everywhere.