Wake up to a refreshing and nourishing breakfast with these Overnight Oats with Raspberry Chia. This delightful blend pairs creamy oats with a tangy raspberry chia compote, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will energize your mornings.
Whether you’re rushing to work or enjoying a slow weekend brunch, this make-ahead dish ensures a wholesome start, complete with fresh fruits and a crunchy nut topping for an added burst of flavor and nutrition.
- Minimal prep with no cooking required, perfect for busy mornings.
- High in fiber and protein to keep you full and satisfied until lunch.
- Versatile ingredients allowing easy customization to your taste preferences.
Ingredients
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: Provides a hearty, chewy texture and rich fiber content to fuel your day.
- Milk (dairy or plant-based): Adds creaminess and moisture to soften the oats overnight.
- Plain Greek yogurt or dairy-free alternative: Creates a thick, creamy base rich in protein and probiotics for digestion.
- Honey or maple syrup: Naturally sweetens the oats without overpowering the fresh flavors.
- Pure vanilla extract: Enhances the overall aroma with a subtle, warm sweetness.
- Pinch of salt: Balances flavor and brings out the natural sweetness in other ingredients.
- Fresh or frozen raspberries: Adds tangy brightness and antioxidant benefits for a healthy boost.
- Chia seeds: Provides omega-3s, thickens the compote, and adds a pleasant crunch.
- Water: Hydrates chia seeds to create the perfect chia gel texture.
- Fresh raspberries for garnish: Offers vibrant color and fresh flavor to finish the dish beautifully.
- Sliced almonds or granola: Adds crunch and nutty depth, complementing the creamy oats perfectly.
Instructions
- Mix the oat base
In a medium bowl, combine rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir thoroughly until well blended to ensure every oat is coated for maximum creaminess after soaking.
- Prepare the raspberry chia compote
Using a separate bowl, gently mash the fresh or frozen raspberries with a fork. Mix in chia seeds, water, and a drizzle of honey if desired. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb liquid and thicken into a jam-like consistency.
- Layer the ingredients
Divide half of the oat mixture evenly between two mason jars or airtight containers. Spoon a layer of the thickened raspberry chia compote over the oats, then top with the remaining oat mixture. This layering creates a beautiful swirl of flavors and colors.
- Refrigerate overnight
Seal the containers with lids and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. This resting period softens the oats and allows the flavors to meld, making for a deliciously creamy and flavorful breakfast.
- Serve with garnishes
Before eating, gently stir the contents to blend layers slightly. Top with fresh raspberries and a sprinkle of sliced almonds or granola for added texture and taste. Serve chilled for a refreshing experience.
- Adjust the sweetness to suit your taste by varying honey or maple syrup amounts.
- This recipe easily doubles or triples to cater for more servings and meal prep.
- Feel free to swap raspberries for other berries like strawberries or blueberries for variety.
Storage Tips
Store leftover overnight oats in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, consume within this period to enjoy fresh flavors and optimal creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of herbal tea or fresh fruit juice. Enhance with additional fresh fruit toppings or nut butters for a more indulgent breakfast treat.
- Use old-fashioned rolled oats rather than instant oats for superior texture after soaking.
- Allowing the chia mixture to sit is crucial for thickening; don’t skip this step.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute Greek yogurt with coconut or almond-based yogurt varieties.
FAQs
- Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
Quick oats absorb liquid faster but can become mushy overnight. Old-fashioned oats provide a better chewy texture.
- Is it possible to use frozen raspberries?
Yes, frozen raspberries work well and can be thawed or used directly to make the chia compote.
- Can I prepare this recipe without Greek yogurt?
Absolutely, you can omit yogurt or replace it with plant-based alternatives to keep the recipe dairy-free.
- How long can I store overnight oats?
Store in the fridge for up to 3 days for best freshness and texture.
- What are the benefits of chia seeds in this recipe?
Chia seeds add fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and help thicken the raspberry layer without added gelatin.
- Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, use plant-based milk, dairy-free yogurt, and maple syrup instead of honey to make it vegan-friendly.
- Can I use other nuts instead of almonds?
Yes, walnuts, pecans, or your preferred nut work great for added crunch and flavor.
Overnight Oats Raspberry Chia
Equipment
- 1 medium bowl
- 2 mason jars or containers
- 1 fork for mashing raspberries
Ingredients
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup milk dairy or plant-based
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or dairy-free alternative
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons water
- Fresh raspberries for garnish
- Sliced almonds or granola for topping
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix oats, milk, yogurt, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, mash raspberries with a fork, then stir in chia seeds, water, and honey if using. Let sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
- Divide half the oat mixture evenly between two jars or containers.
- Add a layer of the raspberry chia mixture on top of the oats.
- Top with the remaining oats and seal containers with lids.
- Refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, gently stir oats and top with fresh raspberries and sliced almonds or granola as desired.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness with more or less honey or syrup.
- Double ingredients to serve more people easily.
- Try different fruits like strawberries or blueberries.
