Avena Nocturna (Overnight Oats) is a no-cook breakfast made by soaking rolled oats in milk (dairy or plant-based) or water overnight.
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The oats soften into a creamy, fiber-rich meal packed with antioxidants and easy to customize with fruits, nuts, or spices.
This Avena Nocturna recipe uses rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, and a natural sweetener for a protein-rich, creamy breakfast that's simple to prep ahead.
Top with your favorite fruits, nuts, or mix-ins for a quick, energizing start to the day.
Ingredients You'll Need
Note: Full ingredients and amounts are listed in the recipe card below.
- Rolled Oats: The base of the recipe; they soften as they soak, creating a creamy texture.
- Milk: Helps the oats absorb liquid and soften without overpowering the flavor; use any milk of choice, dairy or non-dairy.
- Greek Yogurt: Adds creaminess and protein; substitute regular yogurt or dairy-free yogurt.
- Chia Seeds (optional): Thicken the oats and add fiber; use flaxseeds or omit if preferred.
- Maple Syrup: Naturally sweetens the oats; honey can be used instead.
- Cinnamon & Salt: Enhances overall flavor.
How to Make Avena Nocturna
Note: Full instructions are provided in the recipe card below.
- In a small jar or an airtight container, combine the oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds (if using), maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
- Seal the jar or container and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 4 hours, so the oats can absorb the liquid and soften.
- In the morning, stir the oats. If they're too thick, add a little extra milk to reach your preferred consistency. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy.
Hint: If your overnight oats are too thick, add a little extra milk to reach your preferred consistency, then top with your favorite toppings and enjoy.
Storage, Make Ahead, & Freezing
Storage: Store overnight oats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Make Ahead: Prepare a day ahead; mix, refrigerate overnight, and enjoy in the morning.
Freezing: Not recommended.
Camila's Tips & Variations
The Best Oats to Use: Old-fashioned rolled oats are the classic choice for overnight oats; they soften overnight while keeping a slight chew. Steel-cut oats take longer to soften, so soak for at least two nights. Instant or quick oats create a softer, pudding-like texture.
Overnight Oats Using Yogurt vs Milk: For creamier oats, use cow's milk, oat milk, or any plant-based milk, and add yogurt if desired. Use a 1:1 ratio of oats to milk, or a 2:2:1 ratio of oats:milk:yogurt, for extra creaminess and a protein-rich, ready-to-eat breakfast.
Customize Your Toppings: Stir in lighter fruits like berries the night before, and add heavier fruits such as banana slices in the morning.
Mix-ins can include chopped mango, pomegranate seeds, hazelnuts, chocolate, tahini, strawberries, freeze-dried berries, orange zest, or ground cardamom.
Save crunchy toppings like nuts or cereal for the morning to keep them crisp.
Apple Nut Overnight Oats: ½ cup oats, ½ cup milk, 2 tablespoon applesauce, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 1½ teaspoon chia seeds, pinch of cinnamon & salt; top with apples, pecans, or walnuts.
Peanut Butter Overnight Oats: ½ cup rolled oats, ⅔ cup milk, 1½ tablespoon peanut butter, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 1½ teaspoon chia seeds, pinch of salt; top with chopped peanuts.
Banana Overnight Oats: ½ cup oats, ½ cup milk, 2 tablespoon mashed banana, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 1½ teaspoon chia seeds, pinch of cinnamon & salt; serve with sliced bananas, walnuts, or chocolate chips.
Pumpkin Spice Overnight Oats: ½ cup oats, ½ cup milk, 2 tablespoon pumpkin purée, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, 1½ teaspoon chia seeds, pinch of pumpkin spice & salt; top with chopped pecans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my overnight oats too thick?
The oats absorbed too much liquid; stir in more milk before serving.
Why are my overnight oats watery?
Too much liquid was used; add more oats or chia seeds to thicken.
Can I make overnight oats without yogurt?
Yes, but the texture will be less creamy; add extra milk or chia seeds to compensate.
Love this Avena Nocturna recipe?
Make sure to check out our Avena con Leche (Oatmeal) recipe, a creamy and delicious breakfast option that's quick and easy to prepare.
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Recipe
Avena Nocturna
Equipment
- Small jar or airtight container
- Refrigerator
Ingredients
- ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- ½ cup milk (any kind)
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
- 1½ teaspoons chia seeds (optional)
- 2-3 teaspoons maple syrup or honey
- Pinch cinnamon
- Pinch kosher salt
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh or dried fruit
- Nuts or seeds
- Granola
- Shredded or toasted coconut
- Nut butter
- Apple butter or pumpkin butter
Instructions
- In a small jar or an airtight container, combine the oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds (if using), maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
- Seal the jar or container and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 4 hours, so the oats can absorb the liquid and soften.
- In the morning, stir the oats. If they're too thick, add a little extra milk to reach your preferred consistency. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate, calculated using standard data sources. Actual values may vary based on ingredient brands, preparation methods, and portion sizes. This information is for general reference only and should not be considered a substitute for professional dietary advice.
