Print

Budget-Friendly Banana Overnight Oats Recipe

banana overnight oats recipe - featured image

An easy, cheap, and nutritious breakfast that combines ripe banana, rolled oats, and pantry staples for a creamy, naturally sweet start to your day.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (90g) rolled oats
  • 1 large ripe banana, mashed
  • 1 cup (240ml) milk (dairy or plant-based)
  • Β½ cup (120g) Greek yogurt (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • Β½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ΒΌ teaspoon cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Mash the banana in a medium bowl using a fork until mostly smooth with a few small lumps remain (about 2 minutes).
  2. Add rolled oats and chia seeds to the bowl and stir to combine evenly.
  3. Pour in milk and Greek yogurt if using. Add vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, and honey or maple syrup if desired. Stir until fully combined.
  4. Spoon the mixture into a mason jar or airtight container and seal tightly.
  5. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, ideally 8-10 hours, to allow oats and chia seeds to soften.
  6. Serve cold or warm. Stir before eating. Optionally top with fresh banana slices, nuts, or nut butter. To warm, microwave for 30-60 seconds, adding a splash of milk if too thick.

Notes

Use rolled oats for best texture; steel-cut oats won’t soften enough overnight. Mash banana by hand for rustic texture. Chia seeds are essential for thickening and texture. Use ripe bananas with brown spots for natural sweetness. Refrigerate oats for at least 6 hours, up to 24 hours for deeper texture. Store in fridge up to 3 days. Microwave to warm if preferred, adding milk if too thick. Vegan version: substitute Greek yogurt with plant-based yogurt and honey with maple syrup.

Nutrition

Keywords: banana overnight oats, easy breakfast, budget-friendly breakfast, nutritious breakfast, overnight oats recipe, healthy breakfast, quick breakfast