If you need a quick, healthy breakfast you can prepare the night before, Jamie Oliver’s Overnight Oats are a perfect choice. This no-cook recipe is creamy, nourishing, and packed with natural flavor—ideal for busy mornings or easy starts to the day. Just a few minutes of prep, and you’ll have a delicious jar ready when you wake up.

In true Jamie Oliver style, the recipe is fresh, flexible, and fuss-free. Rolled oats soak overnight in your preferred milk—dairy or plant-based—becoming soft and creamy by morning. Mix in honey, yogurt, or a splash of vanilla for extra richness, then add your favorite toppings like berries, chopped nuts, or a spoonful of nut butter.

Great for workdays, school mornings, or post-workout fuel, these overnight oats make breakfast simple and satisfying. No cooking, no waiting—just grab and enjoy.

What are Jamie Oliver’s Overnight Oats?

Jamie Oliver’s Overnight Oats are made by soaking rolled oats in milk or a dairy-free alternative overnight, allowing them to soften and absorb flavors without the need for cooking. This cold, porridge-style breakfast becomes creamy and satisfying by morning. Jamie typically adds fruit, nuts, seeds, or yogurt for variety and nutrition, making it easy to tailor to your preferences.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

No cooking needed – Just mix and refrigerate
Perfect for meal prep – Make several portions ahead
Highly customizable – Sweet, fruity, or nutty toppings
Nutritious and filling – Great source of fiber and energy
Ideal for all ages – Kid-friendly and adult-approved
Takes just 5 minutes to prepare – A time-saving win

Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver’s Overnight Oats

Rolled oats – 100g (1 cup)
Milk (or plant-based milk) – 200ml (¾ cup + 1 tbsp)
Greek yogurt – 2 tablespoons (optional for creaminess)
Honey or maple syrup – 1 tablespoon
Chia seeds – 1 teaspoon (optional for texture and nutrients)
Fresh fruit – a handful (e.g. berries, banana slices, grated apple)
Nuts or seeds – 1 tablespoon (e.g. almonds, sunflower seeds)
Cinnamon or vanilla – a pinch (optional for flavor)

Equipment Needed

Bowl or jar with lid
Spoon for mixing
Measuring cups or a kitchen scale
Refrigerator

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver’s Overnight Oats

Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients

Add oats, milk, and yogurt (if using) to a bowl or jar.
Stir in honey, chia seeds, and a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla for extra flavor.
Mix thoroughly to ensure oats are fully coated.

Step 2: Add Fruit and Nuts

Stir in grated apple, mashed banana, or berries at this stage or save them for topping in the morning.
Add chopped nuts or seeds if you like crunch.

Step 3: Cover and Refrigerate

Cover the jar or bowl with a lid or cling film.
Refrigerate overnight (or at least 6 hours).

Step 4: Serve

Give it a quick stir in the morning.
Top with more fruit, a drizzle of honey, or a dollop of yogurt.
Serve chilled or let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes if preferred.

What Goes Well With Jamie Oliver’s Overnight Oats

Sliced bananas and peanut butter – Creamy and filling combo
Fresh berries and yogurt – A classic mix
Stewed apples or pears with cinnamon – Warm, autumnal flavor
Coconut flakes and mango – A tropical twist
Chopped almonds and dark chocolate shavings – Dessert-like option
Pumpkin puree and nutmeg – Great for fall
Dried fruit like raisins or cranberries – Adds sweetness and chew

Expert Tips for Making the Best Jamie Oliver Overnight Oats

Use old-fashioned rolled oats – Not instant, for best texture
Add yogurt for creaminess – Greek yogurt works especially well
Don’t overdo the liquid – Keep the ratio close to 1:2 oats to liquid
Add chia seeds – They soak up liquid and add protein
Use seasonal fruits – Keeps it fresh and affordable
Prep in individual jars – For grab-and-go convenience
Make multiple servings at once – Saves time during the week

Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver’s Overnight Oats

Chocolate Banana – Add cocoa powder and mashed banana
Apple Pie – Add grated apple, cinnamon, and chopped walnuts
Berry Coconut – Use coconut milk and top with mixed berries
Mocha Oats – Add instant coffee and cocoa powder
Protein Boost – Mix in a scoop of protein powder
Savory Oats – Use plain yogurt, herbs, and grated cucumber for a twist
Vegan Version – Use plant-based milk and skip the yogurt, or use coconut yogurt

Best Practices to Store Jamie Oliver’s Overnight Oats

Refrigerate in an airtight container – Keeps fresh and safe
Store for up to 3–4 days – Ideal for meal prepping
Keep toppings separate – Prevent sogginess (especially nuts or fresh fruit)
Label jars by flavor – Helps organize batch prep
Stir before serving – To redistribute ingredients evenly

Best Practices to Reheat or Serve Jamie Oliver’s Overnight Oats

Typically served cold – Right from the fridge
To serve warm: Microwave for 30–60 seconds, stirring halfway
Let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes – If you prefer it not too cold
Add fresh toppings before eating – Keeps the texture and color fresh

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Overnight Oats Healthier?

Skip added sugar – Use mashed banana or dates for natural sweetness
Use low-fat or non-dairy yogurt – Reduces calories and fat
Add flaxseed or chia seeds – For omega-3 and fiber
Use unsweetened almond or oat milk – Keeps sugar low
Add berries instead of dried fruit – Less sugar, more hydration
Use cinnamon or vanilla extract for flavor – Without extra calories

Nutrition Value (per serving, base recipe without toppings):

Calories: 280
Protein: 8g
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 50mg

FAQs

Do I need to cook the oats for overnight oats?

No, overnight oats require no cooking. The oats soften by soaking in milk or yogurt overnight, creating a creamy texture by morning.

Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats for overnight oats?

Yes, but the texture will be much softer and mushier. Rolled oats are recommended for a better, slightly chewy consistency.

How long should overnight oats soak before eating?

Let them soak for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight. This gives the oats time to absorb liquid and soften properly.

Can I make overnight oats without yogurt?

Yes, you can skip the yogurt and use more milk or a plant-based alternative. The oats will still soften, though the final texture will be slightly less creamy.

Final Words

This Jamie Oliver Overnight Oats is the ultimate balance of convenience and nutrition. With endless flavor combinations, make-ahead flexibility, and a short prep time, it’s a breakfast that fits any lifestyle.