Is overnight oats actually healthy?

It depends on what you put into the overnight oats. This overnight oats recipe is healthy. It’s rich in fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals from the oats and fruit, while chia seeds and walnuts provide omega-3s and additional fiber. Unlike recipes with added sugars or artificial sweeteners, this one uses natural sweetness from berries, bananas, and optional dates to keep it nutritious.

Is overnight oats with yogurt good for you?

Yes! Overnight oats with yogurt are a great way to start your day. The oats provide fiber and slow-digesting carbs, while yogurt adds probiotics, protein, and creaminess. When combined with healthy fats like nut butter and fresh fruits, it's a balanced and satisfying meal.

What not to add in overnight oats?

Avoid ingredients that may not hold up well overnight, such as crispy toppings or ingredients that spoil quickly. Stay away from too much added sugar, overly processed toppings, or anything you're allergic to. It's best to add crunchy items like granola or nuts just before serving to preserve texture.

Overnight Oats Parfait with Caramelized Bananas

Description

Try this overnight oats parfait with caramelized bananas and peanut butter for a delicious and healthy breakfast option any day of the week.

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 cup rolled oats
1 cup unsweetened almond milk
2 Tablespoons chia seeds
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon vanilla bean powder (or 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract)
2 ripe bananas
1 1/2 to 2 Tablespoons pure maple syrup, divided (depending on taste preferences)
1/2 batch (or 1 cup) homemade soy yogurt
1 Tablespoon chopped walnuts (or pecans)

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Instructions

Prepare the Oat Mixture

In a small or medium bowl, mix a cup of rolled oats, chia seeds (or flax seeds), a cup of almond milk, half of the maple syrup, cinnamon, and vanilla bean powder (or vanilla extract). Stir until everything is well combined. At this point, you can give it a taste and adjust it by adding a bit more cinnamon, maple syrup, or vanilla to your liking. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes so the flavors combine and develop a chewy texture.

Caramelize the Bananas

Slice the bananas in half and then split them in half again. Using a small spoon or brush, coat the banana slices, split side up, with a thin layer of maple syrup. Place bananas on parchment paper and put them in the air fryer at 400°F for 9 to 11 minutes or until golden and caramelized. Set aside to cool to room temperature.

If you don't have an air fryer, you can caramelize the bananas in a skillet over medium heat on the stovetop with a tablespoon of avocado oil, a neutral oil, low in saturated fat compared to coconut oil. Saute for 6 to 8 minutes until golden brown and caramelized.

Assemble the Parfait

A 16 oz mason jar works great as yogurt parfait jars for easy transport. Start with the bottom of your mason jar:

Spoon in a quarter of the oat mixture.
Add two pieces of caramelized bananas to the top of the oat layer.
Drizzle some peanut butter or almond butter.
Add a yogurt layer using soy yogurt or your preferred plain plant-based yogurt.
Repeat the layers, ending with chopped walnuts (or pecans) on top of the yogurt layer.
Optional: Add a fruit layer with fresh fruits of your choice or shredded coconut flakes.

Chill and Enjoy!

Technically, you can eat this overnight oats parfait immediately. For best results, allow the oats to chill in the fridge for at least two hours, ideally overnight. Leftovers keep well in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Notes

Equipment: Use a mixing bowl to prep your oats efficiently. We recommend an air fryer to caramelize the bananas, but you can use a skillet if you do not have an air fryer.
Protein Boost: For extra protein, opt for plant-based Greek yogurt or add more homemade soy yogurt.
No Fuss Breakfast Prep: The convenient mason jar is the key! Make multiple jars at once for easy weekday grab-and-go breakfasts.
Make it Fancy: If you're preparing this for brunch (not meal prepping for the work week), use a clear yogurt bowl so you can see the layers.
Flavor Bomb: Dust the top of the oatmeal with cinnamon.
Meal Prep: Keep overnight oats parfait in an air-tight container, like a mason jar, in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American