Overnight Steel Cut Oats are the perfect make-ahead breakfast for busy mornings. Unlike traditional oats that need to be cooked on the stove, steel cut oats can be soaked overnight to create a creamy, hearty breakfast that’s ready to eat as soon as you wake up. The oats absorb the liquid, softening overnight to a tender, chewy texture without any stovetop fuss. This recipe allows you to customize your oats with a variety of toppings such as fresh fruit, nuts, seeds, and sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. Not only are these oats packed with fiber and nutrients, but they also provide long-lasting energy to keep you full throughout the morning. Prep them the night before, and you’ll have a nutritious, delicious breakfast waiting for you when you rise.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup steel cut oats
- 3 cups milk (dairy or plant-based like almond, oat, or coconut milk)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for added fiber)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (optional, for sweetness)
Toppings (optional):
- Fresh fruit (berries, banana slices, apple chunks, etc.)
- Nuts and seeds (almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds, chia seeds)
- Nut butter (peanut, almond, cashew)
- Yogurt (Greek or plant-based)
- A drizzle of maple syrup or honey
- Ground flaxseed or hemp hearts (for added nutrition)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Oats:
- In a medium bowl or large jar, combine the steel cut oats, milk, chia seeds (if using), cinnamon, vanilla extract, salt, and sweetener (if using). Stir everything together until well mixed.
- Refrigerate Overnight:
- Cover the bowl or jar with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 8 hours. The oats will absorb the liquid and soften as they sit.
- In the Morning:
- In the morning, give the oats a good stir. If the oats are too thick for your liking, add a splash of milk or water to loosen them up to your desired consistency.
- Add Toppings and Serve:
- Top your oats with your favorite toppings. Fresh fruit, a dollop of yogurt, a sprinkle of nuts, or a drizzle of nut butter all work wonderfully. You can also add a bit more sweetener if needed.
- Enjoy:
- Your creamy, hearty steel cut oats are ready to enjoy! They can be eaten cold straight from the fridge, or you can warm them up in the microwave or on the stove for a few minutes.
