Peanut Butter and Jelly Overnight Oats Recipe
If you’re looking for a breakfast that’s both comforting and super easy, you’re going to absolutely love this Peanut Butter and Jelly Overnight Oats Recipe. It hits that nostalgic note of PB&J but in a creamy, wholesome bowl that’s ready and waiting when you wake up—no morning rush stress here! Trust me, once you try this, it quickly becomes a staple in your routine.
Why This Recipe Works
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples you likely have, making it quick to whip up any time.
- No-Cook Convenience: Letting oats soak overnight softens them perfectly with no morning effort.
- Balanced Flavor & Texture: Creamy peanut butter meets sweet jelly with hearty oats and chia seeds for nutrition.
- Customizable: Easy to tweak with your favorite nut butters, milk alternatives, or jam flavors.
Ingredients & Why They Work
The magic of this Peanut Butter and Jelly Overnight Oats Recipe lies in the harmony of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and wholesome ingredients coming together effortlessly. Here’s a little breakdown on the star players and some tips to get you the best results.
- Plain Greek Yogurt: Adds creaminess and tang plus a protein boost to keep you full longer.
- Almond Milk: Keeps it dairy-light and adds a slightly nutty background flavor.
- Peanut Butter: The heart of the recipe—go for natural peanut butter with no added sugar for a rich, authentic taste.
- Honey: Gives natural sweetness without overpowering the peanut butter or jelly.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash brings warmth and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- Old Fashioned Oats: These soak up liquid overnight for a creamy texture while retaining just enough bite.
- Chia Seeds: Nutrient powerhouses that also thicken the oats for a pudding-like consistency.
- Jelly or Jam: The fruity sweet contrast to peanut butter — strawberry or grape are classic, but go with what you love.
Tweak to Your Taste
One of my favorite things about this Peanut Butter and Jelly Overnight Oats Recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. I’ve switched out the jelly for fresh fruit compote or swapped peanut butter for almond butter if I’m feeling a little fancy — you can totally play around with flavors.
- Go Nut-Free: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter and use maple syrup instead of honey if you prefer.
- Extra Creamy: Adding a spoonful of cream cheese or mascarpone mixed with the yogurt makes it super indulgent, especially on lazy weekends.
- Mix It In or Layer It: I love swirling the jelly in the morning to keep the pretty layers, but mixing it in before refrigerating makes for even flavor throughout.
- Add Crunch: Sprinkle chopped peanuts or granola just before eating for an awesome texture contrast.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Overnight Oats Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Creamy Base
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and combining your Greek yogurt, almond milk, peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract. I like to soften the peanut butter first by microwaving it for about 15 seconds—it makes it easier to stir evenly so you don’t end up with peanut butter clumps in one bite. Stir until all smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Fold in Your Oats and Seeds
Next, toss in the old fashioned oats and chia seeds. These are going to soak up all that lovely liquid overnight and thicken the mixture nicely. Give everything a good stir—don’t forget those chia seeds or your oats might turn out a little thin. This step sets the texture, so be thorough.
Step 3: Chill Out Overnight
Transfer the mixture into an airtight container or individual jars. Pop it in your fridge and let it work its magic for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight. This is where the oats soften and flavors meld perfectly—no need to rush!
Step 4: Swirl in That Jelly
When you’re ready to eat, give the oats a good stir and swirl in the jelly or jam. I like to use a spoon to create pretty streaks of fruit flavor on the top—it feels like a little indulgent treat. You can also toss in some extra peanut butter on top, sprinkle chopped peanuts, or add fresh berries for an extra pop of color and freshness.
Pro Tips for Making Peanut Butter and Jelly Overnight Oats Recipe
- Soften Your Peanut Butter: Microwaving makes it blend smoother, so you get those creamy swirls instead of chunks.
- Use Airtight Containers: Keeps the oats fresh overnight and locks in flavors better.
- Don’t Skip Chia Seeds: They thicken the oats naturally without added thickeners, plus they boost nutrition.
- Adjust Milk for Texture: If you prefer thicker oats, use less milk; add more for a creamier, looser consistency.
How to Serve Peanut Butter and Jelly Overnight Oats Recipe
Garnishes
Personally, I love topping mine with chopped peanuts for crunch and a drizzle of extra peanut butter for richness. Some fresh berries or sliced banana add a juicy freshness that pairs beautifully with the nutty flavors. Sometimes, a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few chocolate chips sneak their way in — no one’s complaining!
Side Dishes
This recipe stands strong on its own, but if you’re craving a heartier breakfast, pairing it with a boiled egg or a slice of toast with butter rounds things out well. A cup of your favorite coffee or tea makes it feel like a complete morning ritual too.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunch with friends, I’ve served these overnight oats in cute mason jars layered with alternating swirls of peanut butter and jelly before refrigeration — they look gorgeous plated with fresh mint leaves on top. You could even top with some crushed granola bars or toasted coconut for a fancy twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover overnight oats can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep them in a sealed container, and if they firm up too much, stir in a splash of almond milk before serving to bring back that perfect creamy consistency.
Freezing
I don’t recommend freezing this particular Peanut Butter and Jelly Overnight Oats Recipe because the texture can change once thawed—chia seeds tend to gel more and jelly may separate, which isn’t as pleasant. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a couple of days refrigerated.
Reheating
If you prefer warm oats, heat your chilled overnight oats gently in the microwave for 30-45 seconds, then stir well. Adding a splash of almond milk before warming helps loosen the texture. Otherwise, eating them cold is refreshing and just as delicious!
FAQs
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Can I use other nut butters instead of peanut butter?
Absolutely! Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter all work wonderfully in this recipe. Just keep in mind the flavor will shift slightly, but the creamy texture remains delightful.
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Is it necessary to use Greek yogurt?
Greek yogurt adds protein and creaminess, but you can substitute with regular yogurt or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt if you prefer. Texture and flavor will be a bit different, yet still tasty!
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Can I prepare individual servings instead of a big batch?
Yes! Using individual jars or containers is a great way to portion out your overnight oats, ideal for busy mornings or meal prepping for the week.
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How long can I keep the overnight oats in the fridge?
Your oats will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days refrigerated. Beyond that, the texture may change and the oats can become soggy.
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Can I add protein powder to this recipe?
Definitely! Mixing in a scoop of your favorite protein powder with the wet ingredients gives an extra protein kick, perfect if you eat this for a post-workout breakfast.
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Butter and Jelly Overnight Oats Recipe is one of those rare breakfasts that feels like a treat but is incredibly simple and good for you. I keep coming back to it because it wakes me up with a smile and fuels my day without any fuss. Give it a go—you might find it becomes your new favorite easy morning ritual, too.
Print
Peanut Butter and Jelly Overnight Oats Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and satisfying Peanut Butter & Jelly Overnight Oats recipe combining Greek yogurt, almond milk, peanut butter, honey, oats, and chia seeds. Perfect for a quick, nutritious breakfast that you prepare the night before and enjoy chilled the next morning with swirls of your favorite jelly and optional toppings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 1/4 cup almond milk
- 1/4 cup + 1 tbsp peanut butter
- 3 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups old fashioned oats
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1/3 cup jelly or jam
Instructions
- Combine wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, almond milk, peanut butter, honey, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
- Add dry ingredients: Add the old fashioned oats and chia seeds to the wet mixture. Stir everything together to evenly combine all ingredients.
- Refrigerate overnight: Transfer the mixture to an airtight container. Cover and place it in the refrigerator overnight, or for at least a few hours, to allow the oats and chia seeds to soak and soften.
- Add jelly and toppings: In the morning, swirl the jelly or jam into the oat mixture. Optionally, top with additional peanut butter, chopped peanuts, and fresh berries for extra texture and flavor before serving. Alternatively, you can mix the jelly in before refrigerating.
- Serve and enjoy: Enjoy your chilled Peanut Butter & Jelly Overnight Oats as a quick, delicious, and nutritious breakfast.
Notes
- You can substitute almond milk with any other milk of your choice such as cow’s milk or soy milk.
- Using smooth or crunchy peanut butter is a matter of preference and will change the texture slightly.
- For a vegan version, replace Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use maple syrup instead of honey.
- The oats and chia seeds can be adjusted based on your desired thickness; more liquid will result in a thinner consistency.
- Adding fresh berries or sliced bananas as toppings enhances the flavor and nutritional value.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg