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Banana Bread Overnight Oats taste just like a slice of fresh-out-of-the-oven banana bread. Sweetened with mashed banana and maple syrup, and studded with walnuts and chocolate chips, enjoy these banana overnight oats as a wholesome, make-ahead breakfast.
This post is in partnership with Sprouts Farmers Market and Silk. I have been compensated for my time commitment, however all opinions are my own.
Why You’ll Love these Banana Bread Overnight Oats
The better question is what’s NOT to love about a creamy bowl of oats that channel the decadence of fresh banana bread? With warmer weather on the horizon, I’m much more inclined to open the fridge than preheat the oven when it comes to breakfast. These banana overnight oats are cooling, creamy, and packed with good-for-you nutrients.
I’m teaming up with Silk® to share this recipe, because Silk® Original Oatmilk is my new go-to for smoothies, cereals, and of course, overnight oats. It’s ultra smooth and creamy, and tastes decadent enough to dunk a cookie into. Plus, it’s free from dairy, gluten, nuts, soy, carrageenan, cholesterol, and artificial colors & flavors. It’s also verified by the Non-GMO Project’s product verification program. (Look for the new vibrant purple packaging!)
To make overnight oats, simply stir together the ingredients, and then let them sit in the refrigerator while you sleep. That’s it! Overnight, the oatmeal softens and thickens into a pudding-like consistency that will have you jumping out of your bed to enjoy it.
Overnight oats are also portable, so you can easily grab a container on your way out the door.
Recipe Ingredients and Substitutions:
- Old-fashioned Rolled Oats: While old-fashioned oats work best, you can use quick-cooking oats in a pinch. Just avoid using steel-cut oats, which require cooking and therefore will not sufficiently soften overnight.
- Silk® Original Oatmilk: The creaminess of this oatmilk is truly what sets these overnight oats apart from all others. You can just taste the decadence with every bite, yet feel good about what you’re eating first thing in the morning. Plus, this oatmilk has 50% more calcium than dairy milk!
- Banana: Mashed banana naturally sweetens the oats, as well as contributes to their creamy consistency. You need one small ripe banana, which should be spotted with brown as an indicator of ripeness.
- Seeds: Chia, flax, or hemp seeds add a nutritional boost (omega-3 fatty acids and protein). If you do add chia or flax, stick to 1 Tbsp for every 1 cup of oats, and increase the oatmilk by 1/4 cup.
- Protein Powder: Also optional, however it does give the oats more staying power. My favorite plant-based protein powder is Bob’s Red Mill–It contains chia and probiotics, and is likely sweetened with monk fruit. You can also add 1 scoop of unflavored collagen powder.
- Maple Syrup: This is the BEST sweetener for overnight oats because it mixes well, and a little goes a long way. Plus, the flavor profile bodes well for the banana bread experience.
- Add-Ins: While totally optional, I love adding some extra texture to these banana overnight oats. For example, chopped walnuts, mini chocolate chips, or cacao nibs.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Mash banana
Peel banana and place in a bowl. Use a fork or a potato masher to thoroughly mash banana until it appears smooth and almost purred. Transfer banana to a mason jar or glass jar with a lid.
Step 2: Add remainder of ingredients and refrigerate
To the mashed banana, add oats, Silk® Original Oatmilk, chia seeds, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, and protein powder and/or collagen (if using); stir well to combine. If using, stir in the chopped walnuts and mini chocolate chips.
Cover and refrigerate oats overnight.
Step 3: Enjoy!
Remove oats from the fridge and dig in!
FAQs and Expert Tips
What is the Ratio for Overnight Oats?
The best starting ratio for overnight oats is 1 cup of liquid for every 1 cup of oats. The caveat, however, is if you add other dry ingredients or seeds to the mix. For example, this recipe calls for chia seeds and/or protein powder, which will require more liquid for soaking (about 1/4 cup).
If you like your overnight oats really thick, definitely start with the 1:1 ratio. However, if they’re TOO thick the next morning, you can always mix in extra milk as needed. No need to perfect the recipe the night before!
Do you Eat Overnight Oats Hot or Cold?
Overnight oats are meant to be eaten cold, however, if you prefer them warm, you always have the option to heat them up. Because they soak overnight, they are plenty soft to enjoy cold right out of the refrigerator. I suggest just serving them alongside a hot mug of coffee so you have the best of both worlds.
Can you Use Quick-Cooking Oats for Overnight Oats?
In short, yes–you absolutely can use quick-cooking oats in place of old-fashioned oats. The benefit to using quick oats is that the oats soften up in roughly half the time. These banana overnight oats only need about 2 hours of soaking with quick oats, however they can still be enjoyed the next day.
Are Overnight Oats Healthy?
This recipe for overnight oats is rich in fiber from whole-grains, heart-healthy fats from chia seeds and walnuts, and potassium from banana. It’s also a good source of protein with the addition of a plant-based protein powder or collagen. This combination of nutrients is sure to keep you full and fueled for hours.
More Overnight Oat Recipes to Try:
Chocolate Peanut Butter Overnight Oats
Vanilla Maple Almond Butter Overnight Oats
High Protein Brownie Batter Overnight Oats
Give this recipe a try for a wholesome, satisfying start to busy mornings. And be sure to snap a pic and tag #dishingouthealth on Instagram so I can see your beautiful creations. Also, follow along on Facebook and Pinterest for the latest recipe updates!
Banana Bread Overnight Oats
Equipment
- Glass Jar with a Lid
Ingredients
- 1 small (or 1/2 large) extra-ripe banana
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 1/4 cups Silk® Original Oatmilk
- 2 tsp. chia seeds
- 2 tsp. maple syrup
- 3/4 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp. salt
- Pinch of nutmeg
- 2 Tbsp. plant-based protein powder or collagen peptides
- 2 Tbsp. finely chopped walnuts
- 1 Tbsp. mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Peel banana and place in a bowl. Use a fork or a potato masher to thoroughly mash banana until it appears smooth and pureed. Transfer banana to a mason jar or glass jar with a fitted lid.Add oats, Silk® Original Oatmilk, chia seeds, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, and protein powder and/or collagen; stir well to combine. Stir in the chopped walnuts and mini chocolate chips.
- Cover and refrigerate oats overnight (or at least 6 to 8 hours). Uncover, add toppings of choice, and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
I calculate these values by hand to ensure accuracy, however expect up to a 10% variable depending on food brands.
This is great. Have tried a few different overnight oats recipes and like this one the best, thanks. Will try some of your dinners.
Hi Marc – I’m so glad you enjoyed this one! Thank you so much for taking the time to leave a review.