Start your day with these creamy, flavorful Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats—a breakfast that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Packed with fiber-rich oats, plant-based protein from peanut butter, and natural sweetness from bananas, this easy-to-make meal supports energy and fullness all morning.
Quick to prep, fridge-friendly, and perfect for meal planning, it’s a wholesome option for busy mornings.
Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 whisk
- 3 small jars or airtight containers
Ingredients
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup milk of choice almond, regular, or kefir
- 1 ripe banana mashed (⅓–½ cup)
- 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon flax meal or chia seeds or ½ tablespoon each
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of fine salt
- Optional toppings: sliced banana extra peanut butter, chopped nuts
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients and measure them carefully. Peel and mash a ripe banana until smooth, and ensure your peanut butter is creamy for easy mixing. Choose your preferred milk—dairy or plant-based—and have your oats, flax or chia seeds, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt ready. Having everything prepped in advance makes the process seamless.
- Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed banana, peanut butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Use a whisk to blend these ingredients until smooth and creamy. This ensures the banana and peanut butter fully integrate, creating a rich, flavorful base that will coat the oats evenly.
- Add Oats and Seeds: Stir in the rolled oats along with your choice of flax meal or chia seeds. These ingredients provide fiber and structure to the overnight oats. Mix thoroughly so every oat is coated with the banana and peanut butter mixture, allowing the seeds to absorb some moisture for a soft, creamy texture after refrigeration.
- Incorporate the Milk: Gradually pour in your chosen milk while stirring continuously. Make sure the mixture is well combined, with no dry patches of oats. The milk will soften the oats overnight and help create a creamy, pudding-like consistency. Adjust slightly if needed—if the mixture seems too thick, add a splash more milk.
- Divide into Containers: Spoon the oat mixture evenly into three jars or airtight containers. Leave a little space at the top to allow the oats to expand slightly as they absorb the liquid. Using individual containers makes serving easy, perfect for meal prep, and keeps the oats fresh for several days in the refrigerator.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Seal the containers tightly with lids and place them in the refrigerator. Let the oats sit for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight, so the flavors meld together and the oats soften fully. The chilling process also thickens the mixture and enhances the creamy texture.
- Add Toppings Before Serving: When ready to enjoy, remove a jar from the fridge and add your favorite toppings. Consider sliced bananas, a drizzle of peanut butter, or chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor. Stir gently if desired, or leave the toppings layered on top for a visually appealing presentation.
- Serve and Enjoy: Grab a spoon and enjoy your nutritious, high-protein, fiber-rich breakfast straight from the jar, or transfer it to a bowl. These overnight oats are filling, flavorful, and perfect for a busy morning, giving you sustained energy and a delicious start to your day.
Notes
- Use ripe bananas for natural sweetness and smooth texture.
- Rolled oats are recommended for a creamy consistency; quick oats may become mushy.
- Customize protein by adding a scoop of protein powder or Greek yogurt.
- Adjust milk quantity to reach your preferred thickness—more milk for creamier oats.
- Optional toppings like nuts, seeds, or dark chocolate chips enhance texture and flavor.
- For a dairy-free version, choose almond, soy, or oat milk.
- Maple syrup can be replaced with honey or agave for a natural sweetener.
Chef’s Secrets: Maximize Creaminess And Flavor
To make the creamiest, most flavorful overnight oats, always start with ripe bananas and creamy peanut butter.
Mashing the banana thoroughly before combining ensures even sweetness and smooth texture throughout.
For extra richness, stir in a small spoonful of yogurt or a splash of milk after mixing the base.
Letting the oats rest overnight allows the flavors to meld and the oats to soften, creating a naturally thick, pudding-like consistency.
Small tweaks, like a pinch of salt or a dash of cinnamon, can elevate the flavor without overpowering the natural sweetness of the banana.
Serving Suggestions: Creative Ways To Enjoy
These overnight oats are highly versatile and can be enjoyed straight from the jar for convenience or served in a bowl for a more traditional breakfast experience.
Top with sliced bananas, a swirl of peanut butter, granola, or toasted nuts for crunch.
Fresh berries or a sprinkle of cacao nibs add color and flavor.
Pair with a hot cup of coffee or a smoothie for a balanced morning meal.
You can even serve them chilled as a quick snack or light dessert.
Storage Tips: Keep Oats Fresh Longer
Overnight oats store best in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.
For optimal texture, do not add fresh toppings until serving time, as fruits or nuts may soften or become soggy.
If your oats thicken too much after refrigeration, stir in a splash of milk or water to reach the desired consistency.
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture can change when thawed, but pre-portioning jars for the week makes mornings effortless and reduces food waste.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Simply use a plant-based milk like almond, oat, or soy milk. Ensure your peanut butter is also vegan-friendly. Maple syrup is a great sweetener for a fully plant-based version.
2. Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Quick oats can work, but they will absorb liquid faster and may become mushy. Rolled oats provide the best texture, remaining creamy yet slightly chewy after refrigeration.
3. How do I make it extra high in protein?
Add a scoop of protein powder when mixing the base, or stir in Greek yogurt for additional protein and creaminess. Peanut butter itself also contributes plant-based protein.
4. Can I prepare this for the entire week?
Yes! These oats store well for up to 4–5 days in the fridge. Pre-portion into jars or containers for easy grab-and-go breakfasts throughout the week.
5. What are some topping ideas?
Fresh banana slices, chopped nuts, seeds, granola, berries, or a drizzle of chocolate or peanut butter all work beautifully. Add toppings just before eating to maintain texture and freshness.
