Breakfast made the night before: oats soften slowly in milk and yogurt while you sleep, turning creamy without any cooking. Chia seeds thicken the mixture a little more, but they are optional.

Frozen berries are the easy route. Spoon them on top before chilling and they thaw overnight, releasing their juices into the oats.

The recipe

Berry maple overnight oats

2 servings · 10 minutes + overnight chilling total · Metric measurements

Ingredients

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Method

  1. Mix the baseStir the oats, milk, yogurt, chia seeds if using, maple syrup and salt in a bowl or jug until evenly combined.
  2. Divide into jarsSpoon into two jars or lidded containers. Top with the berries.
  3. Chill overnightCover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight. Keep the oats chilled at 4°C / 40°F or below.
  4. ServeStir, loosen with a splash of milk if you like, and add extra maple syrup and berries on top.

Small details that help

  • Use rolled oats, not instant oats. Instant oats turn mushy by morning.
  • If the mixture is too thick in the morning, stir in milk a spoonful at a time.
  • Make two or three jars at once. They keep covered in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Swaps and variations

Use a dairy-free yogurt and milk for a dairy-free version. Swap the berries for grated apple with a pinch of cinnamon, or use honey instead of maple syrup.

What to serve with it

Eat cold straight from the jar, topped with chopped nuts, seeds or an extra spoonful of yogurt.

Storage and reheating

Keep refrigerated at 4°C / 40°F or below and eat within 2 days. Use milk and yogurt within their use-by dates, and do not leave the jars out of the fridge for more than 2 hours.

Food-safety reference: safe cooking and reheating temperatures. Refrigerate perishable food within 2 hours, or 1 hour above 32°C / 90°F. Keep the refrigerator at 4°C / 40°F or below.

Common questions

Can I warm it up?

Yes. Warm it gently in a saucepan or the microwave, adding a splash of milk, and stir until just heated through. Add fresh berries after warming.

How far ahead can I make it?

Up to 2 days ahead, kept covered in the fridge. After that the oats lose their texture and the fruit softens too much.

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