If you’re searching for a breakfast that tastes just like a decadent treat but is wholesome, filling, and only takes five minutes to meal-prep, get ready to fall in love with Peanut Butter & Banana Overnight Oats. Creamy, nutty, and naturally sweet, this recipe is the kind of breakfast that makes waking up genuinely exciting. With hearty rolled oats, creamy peanut butter, ripe banana, a touch of spice, and five minutes of effort, you’ll be rewarded with a grab-and-go breakfast that’s as nourishing as it is crave-worthy. Trust me: Peanut Butter & Banana Overnight Oats are about to become your morning favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the most delightful things about Peanut Butter & Banana Overnight Oats is how simple the ingredient list is—each one brings its own unique flavor or texture, blending together for the most comforting jar of oats. Think pantry staples, but with an elevated twist that turns everyday oats into something special.
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: These provide the perfect chewy texture and soak up the flavors overnight for that creamy bite.
- Unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice): This keeps it light, dairy-free (if you want!), and adds subtle creaminess—use your favorite milk here.
- Ripe banana (mashed): Adds natural sweetness and makes every bite taste indulgent without added sugar.
- Peanut butter: The star ingredient for that signature nutty flavor and rich texture—natural peanut butter works best.
- Chia seeds: Not only do they thicken up the oats, but they also bring a boost of fiber and omega-3s.
- Vanilla extract: Just a splash rounds out the flavors and adds a bakery-fresh aroma.
- Ground cinnamon: Warm spice rounds out everything and brings cozy breakfast vibes.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the other flavors—don’t skip it!
- Banana slices and chopped peanuts (optional, for topping): Adds extra texture, color, and an irresistibly pretty finish.
How to Make Peanut Butter & Banana Overnight Oats
Step 1: Mash the Banana
Start by peeling half a ripe banana and mashing it thoroughly with a fork. The riper the banana, the sweeter your oats will be. Mash until mostly smooth so that it mixes evenly and infuses the entire jar with natural sweetness.
Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients
In a jar or lidded container, add your rolled oats, mashed banana, peanut butter, chia seeds, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Pour in the almond milk. Stir everything together really well, making sure the peanut butter doesn’t just sit on the bottom—a good stir makes all the difference in getting that creamy consistency.
Step 3: Refrigerate Overnight
Cover your jar tightly and pop it into the refrigerator. Give it at least 6 hours (or overnight), so the oats fully absorb the liquid and the chia seeds work their thickening magic. By morning, you’ll have Peanut Butter & Banana Overnight Oats that are soft, creamy, and ready to go.
Step 4: Add the Toppings and Enjoy
In the morning, give your oats one more good stir. If you prefer a looser consistency, add an extra splash of almond milk. Top generously with banana slices and a scattering of chopped peanuts, then grab a spoon and dig in!
How to Serve Peanut Butter & Banana Overnight Oats
Garnishes
The finishing touches take your Peanut Butter & Banana Overnight Oats from good to swoon-worthy. Try extra banana slices for creaminess, a sprinkle of chopped peanuts for crunch, or even a drizzle of honey or extra peanut butter for a touch of luxury. It’s all about making your breakfast feel a bit special, even on the busiest of mornings.
Side Dishes
You barely need a side with this hearty jar, but for a truly satisfying spread, pair your oats with a cup of hot coffee or tea, or toss in a handful of seasonal berries for a bright pop of color and flavor. If you’re feeling extra hungry, a hard-boiled egg or a yogurt parfait on the side amps up the protein power.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation isn’t just for dinner parties—you eat with your eyes first, even at breakfast! Try layering the ingredients in a glass for a parfait-style look, or serve the oats in small mason jars for an adorable, portable touch. Create a mini toppings bar for the family with various nuts, coconut flakes, and fruit so everyone can customize their own Peanut Butter & Banana Overnight Oats experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with extra Peanut Butter & Banana Overnight Oats, simply pop a lid on and refrigerate. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 3 days—just give them a good stir each morning. The flavor gets even better as the ingredients mingle.
Freezing
While overnight oats typically don’t freeze well due to texture changes, you can freeze the oat base (without banana or toppings) in individual portions. Thaw overnight in the fridge, and stir in fresh banana and toppings just before serving for the best texture.
Reheating
Peanut Butter & Banana Overnight Oats are designed to be eaten cold, but if you prefer them warm, microwave in a microwave-safe jar (just remove any metal lids or toppings first) for 30-60 seconds, stirring halfway through. Add a splash of milk to loosen them if needed, and top as you like.
FAQs
Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
Steel-cut oats are much heartier and don’t soften as much with the overnight soak, so the texture will be very chewy. For the classic creamy result, stick with old-fashioned rolled oats.
Is there a peanut-free version of Peanut Butter & Banana Overnight Oats?
Absolutely! Substitute the peanut butter with almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or even tahini for a nut-free alternative. Each swap brings its own flavor twist and works deliciously with banana.
How can I make these oats sweeter or less sweet?
If you love a sweeter breakfast, add a teaspoon of maple syrup or honey before refrigerating. For less sweetness, use a just-ripe banana and omit any syrups. Taste and adjust to your mood!
Are Peanut Butter & Banana Overnight Oats vegan?
They absolutely can be! Just be sure to use plant-based milk and natural peanut butter without added honey. This recipe is naturally dairy-free and vegetarian.
Can I make a big batch for meal prep?
Definitely! This recipe doubles, triples, or even quadruples easily. Mix everything in a big bowl, portion into individual jars, and you’ll have breakfast ready for several days.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to upgrade your mornings, there’s really nothing easier or more delicious than Peanut Butter & Banana Overnight Oats. Make a jar tonight and tomorrow’s breakfast will taste like a treat you don’t even have to wait in line for. Give it a try—your future self will thank you!
Print
Peanut Butter & Banana Overnight Oats Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes (plus overnight refrigeration)
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and nutritious, these Peanut Butter & Banana Overnight Oats are a perfect make-ahead breakfast option that will keep you satisfied and energized throughout the morning.
Ingredients
Rolled Oats:
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
Almond Milk:
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
Ripe Banana:
- 1/2 ripe banana (mashed)
Peanut Butter:
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter
Chia Seeds:
- 1 teaspoon chia seeds
Vanilla Extract:
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Ground Cinnamon:
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Salt:
- Pinch of salt
Toppings:
- Banana slices and chopped peanuts for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a jar, mix oats, almond milk, mashed banana, peanut butter, chia seeds, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well.
- Refrigerate: Cover and refrigerate overnight or for at least 6 hours.
- Serve: In the morning, stir, add more milk if desired, and top with banana slices and peanuts.
Notes
- For added sweetness, stir in maple syrup or honey.
- Use natural peanut butter for cleaner ingredients.
- Recipe can be doubled or tripled for meal prep.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 jar
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
