Techniques
Meal Prep
Skill
Beginner
1 min

How to make overnight oats by soaking them in the fridge

Mix oats with liquid and mix-ins, then refrigerate to let them set overnight for a ready-to-eat breakfast.

Combine oats with a liquid base (e.g., milk and/or yogurt) plus flavorings and add-ins, then mix well and refrigerate until set. By morning, the oats will have softened and thickened into a spoonable texture.

The short version

  • Refrigerate after mixing to let the oats set without cooking.
  • Chia seeds help thicken as they hydrate.
  • Mix thoroughly before chilling for an even texture.

What you need

  • container or bowl
  • refrigerator

How to do it

  1. 1

    Add oats to a container or bowl.

    Watch this step
  2. 2

    Add your liquid base (e.g., milk and/or Greek yogurt) plus sweetener and spices if using.

    Adjust liquid for your preferred thickness.

    Watch this step
  3. 3

    Add chia seeds and mix thoroughly.

    Mix well so chia doesn’t clump.

    Watch this step
  4. 4

    Stir in any add-ins (e.g., nuts).

    Add-ins can be mixed through before chilling.

    Watch this step
  5. 5

    Refrigerate until set (overnight).

    Leave to set in the fridge so it thickens properly.

    Watch this step

What goes wrong

Not mixing well before refrigerating

Stir thoroughly so chia and spices distribute evenly before chilling.

Why it works

Time in the fridge lets the oats and chia hydrate, absorbing liquid and thickening the mixture without cooking.

Put it to use

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