Morning Glow Overnight Oats

Ingredients

Base Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup rolled oats – These absorb liquid and swell overnight, creating a creamy, soft texture.
• 1/2 cup milk – You can use dairy milk or any non-dairy alternative like almond, soy, or oat milk for a vegan option.
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt (optional) – Adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor, perfect for a probiotic boost.
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds – These expand when soaked and help thicken the mixture, providing fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup – Sweetens the base; you can adjust this to your taste preference.

Optional Toppings:

• Sliced banana – Adds natural sweetness and a creamy texture.
• Fresh berries (e.g., raspberries, blueberries) – Offers antioxidants, tartness, and a pop of color.
• Chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts, pecans) – Adds crunch, healthy fats, and protein.
• Sprinkle of chia seeds – For added fiber, texture, and a nutrient boost.
• Drizzle of honey – For extra sweetness, if preferred.

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Construction

1. Prepare the Base:
   • In a small jar or container, combine rolled oats, milk, yogurt (if using), chia seeds, and sweetener.
   • Stir well to ensure that the chia seeds are evenly distributed, and the mixture is thoroughly mixed.
2. Chill Overnight:
   • Cover the jar with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the fridge.
   • Allow it to chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the oats and chia seeds to absorb the liquid and soften, creating a creamy texture.
3. Add Toppings:
   • In the morning, give the oats a quick stir. Add any desired toppings like sliced banana, fresh berries, chopped nuts, and an extra drizzle of honey or syrup if you like.
4. Serve:
   • Enjoy your overnight oats straight from the jar, cold, or you can warm them up slightly if you prefer them warm.

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Variations

1. Chocolate Peanut Butter:
   • Add 1 tablespoon of peanut butter and 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder to the base. Top with chopped peanuts and a few dark chocolate chips.
2. Apple Cinnamon:
   • Add 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon and chopped apple to the base. You can also sprinkle some extra cinnamon on top after stirring in the morning.
3. Tropical Coconut:
   • Add shredded coconut and pineapple chunks for a tropical flavor. Top with extra coconut flakes and a drizzle of honey.
4. Matcha Green Tea:
   • Mix in 1 teaspoon of matcha powder into the base before chilling. Top with coconut flakes, berries, or a drizzle of honey.
5. Pumpkin Spice:
   • Add 2 tablespoons of pumpkin puree and 1/2 teaspoon of pumpkin spice. Top with a handful of granola or walnuts.

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Tips

1. Adjusting Sweetness: You can use agave nectar, stevia, or even mashed banana as a natural sweetener instead of honey or maple syrup.
2. For a Thicker Texture: Add a little more chia seeds or reduce the liquid slightly.
3. Vegan-Friendly: Skip the yogurt or use a plant-based alternative (like coconut yogurt) to make it completely vegan.
4. Make a Big Batch: This recipe can be easily doubled or tripled for meal prepping. Just divide the mixture into separate jars for an easy grab-and-go breakfast throughout the week.
5. Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom, or add vanilla extract for added flavor.
6. Storage: Overnight oats can last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator, so you can prep several jars at once.

Enjoy the variety and flexibility of overnight oats!