Peanut Butter and Jelly Overnight Oats are a simple and delicious way to start your day. Creamy oats soak up the flavors of peanut butter and a touch of sweet jelly, making a breakfast that feels familiar and comforting. It’s like having your favorite sandwich in a healthy, easy-to-eat bowl.
I love how easy these oats are to prepare the night before and then just grab and go in the morning. It saves so much time, and you don’t have to think twice about breakfast. Plus, mixing peanut butter and jelly with oats adds a satisfying creaminess and a burst of fruity sweetness that keeps me happy until lunchtime.
My favorite way to enjoy this is by topping it with some fresh berries or a few banana slices for an extra bit of freshness. Sometimes a sprinkle of chopped nuts adds a nice crunch too. It’s such a fun, no-fuss way to enjoy breakfast that reminds me of childhood snacks but with a grown-up twist!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These give the oats their signature chewy texture after soaking. If you want a smoother texture, try quick oats, but avoid steel-cut oats as they need longer soaking.
Milk: Any milk works here—dairy or plant-based like almond, oat, or soy. I often use almond milk for a light, nutty flavor that pairs well with peanut butter.
Peanut Butter: Creamy or chunky, both work great. If you prefer, swap peanut butter for almond or cashew butter for a different nut taste. Just make sure it’s smooth enough to drizzle nicely.
Fruit Jelly or Jam: Classic strawberry or raspberry jelly keeps the familiar flavor. You can also use fresh fruit preserves or mashed berries for a more natural option.
Chia Seeds: They add a nice texture and help thicken the oats. If you don’t have them, you can skip or replace with ground flaxseed for similar benefits.
How Do You Get Creamy, Not Messy Overnight Oats?
The secret to creamy overnight oats is the soak time and mixing well. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix oats, milk, and chia seeds thoroughly so each oat has moisture.
- Add yogurt for extra creaminess and protein, but it’s optional.
- Let them sit in the fridge at least 4-6 hours or overnight to let the oats absorb liquid fully.
- If the oats are too thick in the morning, stir in a splash of milk to loosen them up.
- For neat layers of peanut butter and jelly, add these just before serving to keep their texture and flavor bright.
This slow soaking is what makes overnight oats so easy and tasty while keeping the right texture. I find prepping these the night before saves time and makes mornings easier and tastier!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium mixing bowl or jar – I like using a jar because it’s easy to stir and then store in the fridge.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the right amounts of oats, milk, and toppings.
- Spoon or stirrer – for mixing the ingredients well and layering the jelly, berries, and peanut butter.
- Refrigerator – to let the oats soak and develop flavor overnight.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use almond or cashew butter instead of peanut butter for a different nutty flavor.
- Swap raspberries for sliced bananas, blueberries, or chopped strawberries for variety.
- Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts or shredded coconut on top for crunch and texture.
- Mix in a teaspoon of cocoa powder or a dash of cinnamon to add warmth and richness.
How to Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond or oat milk)
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1½ tablespoons peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
- 2 tablespoons fruit jelly or jam (strawberry, raspberry, or your choice)
- ¼ cup fresh or frozen raspberries (or mixed berries)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
- Additional chia seeds for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to put together. Then, it’s best to refrigerate it overnight or at least 4 to 6 hours so the oats soak up all the flavors and get nice and creamy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
Start by combining the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt if using, and chia seeds in a medium bowl or jar. Stir everything together well to make sure the oats start soaking evenly.
2. Sweeten and Prepare to Layer:
If you want your oats a little sweeter, add honey or maple syrup and mix again. Then transfer the oat mixture into your serving jar or container.
3. Add Jelly and Fruit Layers:
Spread a layer of your favorite fruit jelly or jam on top of the oats. Next, spoon fresh or thawed raspberries over the jelly layer for a lovely fruity touch.
4. Top with Peanut Butter and Chia:
Drizzle peanut butter on top of the berries. If it’s too thick to drizzle, gently warm it in the microwave for a few seconds to soften. Finish with a sprinkle of chia seeds if you like a little crunch.
5. Refrigerate and Serve:
Cover your jar or container with a lid or plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge overnight or for at least 4-6 hours. In the morning, give it a gentle stir if you prefer or enjoy the layered look as is! Add a splash more milk if you want it thinner. Serve chilled and enjoy your healthy, tasty breakfast!
Can I Use Frozen Berries Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Frozen berries work great. Just thaw them slightly before layering to avoid extra liquid, or add them frozen if you prefer a chilled, thicker texture in the morning.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and substitute Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative such as coconut or soy yogurt. Make sure your peanut butter and jelly are also vegan-friendly.
How Long Can I Store Overnight Oats?
Overnight oats keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before eating, and add a splash of milk if it’s too thick.
Can I Prepare Multiple Servings at Once?
Yes! You can easily double or triple the ingredients and store in separate jars for grab-and-go breakfasts throughout the week.