Peanut Butter and Jelly Overnight Oats are the perfect way to start your morning with a creamy, delicious twist on a classic sandwich. This breakfast combines the smooth nuttiness of peanut butter with the sweet, fruity burst of jelly, all soaked into soft, hearty oats. It’s like having your favorite childhood treat ready to eat, but in a healthy, filling way that saves you time.
I love making these the night before because it means I wake up to something ready and waiting for me in the fridge. The oats get nice and tender, and the flavors have a chance to mingle, making each bite a tasty little surprise. Sometimes I like to swirl a bit more jelly on top right before eating, just to keep that fresh jammy goodness shining through.
This recipe is great if you’re rushing out the door or just want a no-fuss breakfast you can eat with a spoon or take on the go. I often pair it with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of milk—it feels like a cozy, simple treat that’s both satisfying and refreshing. Plus, it’s super easy to customize with your favorite nut butters or jam flavors!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are best for overnight oats because they soak up liquid well but keep a nice texture. If you want something quicker, instant oats work, but the texture will be softer.
Milk: Any milk works here — dairy or plant-based like almond, oat, or soy. I like almond milk for a light taste and creaminess without added calories.
Peanut Butter: Use smooth or crunchy, depending on your texture preference. You can swap peanut butter with almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter for a different nutty flavor or to keep it nut-free.
Berries (Raspberries or Strawberries): Fresh or frozen berries both work. You can also try other fruits like blueberries or blackberries or even fruit preserves if you’re in a hurry.
Sweetener: Honey or maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness. You can skip it or use dates or stevia if you want to reduce sugar.
How Do I Make Overnight Oats Creamy Without Cooking?
The magic of overnight oats is soaking, not cooking. Here’s how to get creamy oats every time:
- Use enough liquid — usually a 1:1 ratio of oats to milk works well.
- Mix in Greek yogurt for extra creaminess and protein.
- Add chia seeds to thicken and give a nice gel-like texture.
- Stir the oats and liquids well before refrigerating to combine everything evenly.
- Let the mixture sit in the fridge for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for softness.
If the oats seem too thick in the morning, just stir in a little extra milk to loosen them up. You can eat them cold or warm them quickly in the microwave if you prefer.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Jar or airtight container – I like using a jar because it’s easy to mix, store, and grab on busy mornings.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helps get the right balance of ingredients, especially for the oats and liquids.
- Fork or spoon – for mashing berries and mixing the ingredients well.
- Optional: small whisk or stir stick – for mixing the yogurt and liquids smoothly if needed.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap berries for sliced bananas or blueberries to change the fruity flavor.
- Mix in a spoonful of cocoa powder or cinnamon for a warm, rich taste.
- Add a handful of chopped nuts or granola on top before serving for crunch and extra texture.
- Use different nut butters like almond or cashew for variety or to suit allergies and preferences.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond, oat, or soy)
- 1/4 cup plain or vanilla Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for texture and nutrition)
- 1-2 tablespoons peanut butter, plus extra for drizzling
- 1/3 cup fresh or frozen raspberries (or strawberries, or mixed berries)
- 1-2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 5-10 minutes to prepare, plus 4-6 hours (or overnight) to chill in the refrigerator. The resting time allows the oats to soak up the flavors and become soft and creamy, so it’s best to prepare it the night before.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients
In a bowl or jar, combine the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt (if using), chia seeds, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir these ingredients well to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
2. Add the Peanut Butter
Stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons of peanut butter into the oat mixture. You can swirl it gently for a marbled look or mix thoroughly if you prefer an even peanut flavor throughout.
3. Prepare the Berries
Lightly mash the raspberries with a fork to create a jam-like texture, or leave them whole if you like bursts of whole berries. Layer these over the oat mixture in your jar or bowl.
4. Refrigerate Overnight
Seal the jar or cover the bowl and place it in the fridge for at least 4-6 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the oats to soften and soak up the flavors.
5. Serve and Enjoy
The next morning, give the oats a gentle stir and add a drizzle of peanut butter on top. You can also add extra fresh berries or a sprinkle of chia seeds for texture. Enjoy your delicious overnight oats cold, or warm them briefly if you prefer.
Can I Use Frozen Berries Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen berries work great and can be added straight from the freezer. They’ll thaw while the oats soak overnight and add a nice fruity flavor.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! Use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and swap Greek yogurt for a dairy-free yogurt or simply skip it. Make sure your peanut butter and sweetener are vegan-friendly, too.
How Long Can I Store Overnight Oats?
Store the oats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Give them a good stir before eating, and add a splash of milk if they’ve thickened too much.
Can I Prepare Overnight Oats Without Chia Seeds?
Definitely! Chia seeds add extra texture and nutrition but are optional. Your oats will still soak up the liquid and get creamy without them.