Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats
Highlighted under: Green Eating
I love starting my mornings with a hearty breakfast that keeps me full and satisfied, and Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats have become my go-to. This recipe combines creamy peanut butter with ripe bananas and hearty oats to create a deliciously nourishing meal that I can prep the night before. Not only is it super simple to make, but it also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, giving me the perfect blend of sweetness and protein to kickstart my day. It's a breakfast that I've grown to cherish!
As a busy person, I need breakfasts that are quick yet nutritious. When I first tried Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats, I was amazed at how simple it was to prepare while still being satisfying. I typically make a batch on Sunday night, ensuring I have a quick, healthy breakfast every weekday.
What sets this recipe apart is the way the oats soften overnight, absorbing all the flavors of the peanut butter and banana. I recommend using ripe bananas for the best sweetness and texture. Plus, you can adjust the peanut butter based on your personal preference—creamy or crunchy, it’s delicious either way!
You'll Love This Recipe Because
- Rich peanut butter flavor combined with sweet banana
- Hearty oats that keep you fueled throughout the morning
- Perfect for meal prep and effortlessly grab-and-go
Ingredient Insights
The combination of rolled oats and milk creates a creamy base that's not only delicious but also packed with fiber. This fiber-rich breakfast will help you feel satisfied longer, making it a solid choice for energy during the morning rush. You can use any variety of milk—dairy or plant-based—though almond milk adds a unique nutty flavor that complements the peanut butter beautifully.
Ripe bananas are not just for sweetness; they act as a natural binder, helping to achieve a smooth texture when combined. Choosing a banana that's just starting to brown will provide the best flavor and sweetness. If you're looking to cut sugar, substituting the honey with a sugar-free sweetener or omitting it altogether can be effective without sacrificing taste.
Preparation Tips
When mixing your ingredients, ensure that the peanut butter is thoroughly incorporated for an even distribution of flavor. A whisk works well, but using a fork can help break up any banana lumps for smoother oats. If your peanut butter is too thick, you may want to warm it slightly in the microwave to make mixing easier—approximately 10 to 15 seconds should suffice.
Storing your overnight oats in reusable jars not only preserves freshness but also makes for an eco-friendly option. Glass jars are ideal as they don't absorb odors and can be easily cleaned. When you place them in the fridge, it's a good idea to store them away from strong-smelling foods to prevent any flavor contamination.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
For the Overnight Oats
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Instructions:
Combine Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, milk, mashed banana, peanut butter, honey (if using), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Transfer to Containers
Divide the mixture evenly into two jars or containers with lids, sealing them tightly.
Chill Overnight
Place the jars in the refrigerator and let them chill overnight (or at least for 4 hours) to allow the oats to soften.
Serve
In the morning, give the oats a good stir, and enjoy them cold straight from the jar, or warm them up in the microwave for about 30 seconds if preferred.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to add toppings like sliced almonds, chocolate chips, or additional banana slices before serving for an extra delicious touch!
Serving Variations
While this recipe is delightful as is, adding toppings can elevate it further! Consider sprinkling some chopped nuts or seeds on top for an added crunch. A drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of yogurt can also enhance the creamy texture and bring additional flavor layers—perfect for those cozy weekend breakfasts.
Another excellent variation is to mix in chia seeds for an extra boost of nutrients. Adding a tablespoon of chia seeds not only increases the fiber content but also creates a thicker texture once it soaks overnight. You might even consider stirring in cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist that pairs beautifully with the peanut butter.
Storage and Meal Prep
Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats can be a lifesaver for busy mornings! They stay fresh in the fridge for up to five days, making them a perfect candidate for meal prep. Create a batch for the week on Sunday evening, and you'll have a nutritious breakfast ready to go each day. Just be sure to seal the jars tightly to keep them fresh.
If you need to scale this recipe up for a family or gathering, simply multiply the ingredients accordingly. This recipe can easily be tripled or quadrupled without changing the preparation method. Just ensure you have enough jars or containers to accommodate the increased volume!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but keep in mind that steel-cut oats require a longer soaking time. Consider soaking them for at least 8 hours.
→ Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can make several jars at once and keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days.
→ What can I substitute for peanut butter?
You can use any nut butter like almond or cashew butter, or even sunbutter if you have nut allergies.
→ Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, simply replace dairy milk with a plant-based alternative such as almond or soy milk.
Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats
I love starting my mornings with a hearty breakfast that keeps me full and satisfied, and Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats have become my go-to. This recipe combines creamy peanut butter with ripe bananas and hearty oats to create a deliciously nourishing meal that I can prep the night before. Not only is it super simple to make, but it also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, giving me the perfect blend of sweetness and protein to kickstart my day. It's a breakfast that I've grown to cherish!
What You'll Need
For the Overnight Oats
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, milk, mashed banana, peanut butter, honey (if using), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Divide the mixture evenly into two jars or containers with lids, sealing them tightly.
Place the jars in the refrigerator and let them chill overnight (or at least for 4 hours) to allow the oats to soften.
In the morning, give the oats a good stir, and enjoy them cold straight from the jar, or warm them up in the microwave for about 30 seconds if preferred.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to add toppings like sliced almonds, chocolate chips, or additional banana slices before serving for an extra delicious touch!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 135mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 60g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 12g