Can I use brown sugar for overnight oats?

Yes. Brown sugar blends well with oats and adds a warm molasses flavor.

What not to put in overnight oats?

Avoid crunchy toppings until serving. They get soggy if stored in the jar.

Yes. Just adjust to taste. You can pair it with fruit for balanced sweetness.

Mix oats with enough liquid to soak, add flavorings, cover, and chill for several hours before eating.

Creamy and lightly sweetened with ripe bananas and brown sugar, these overnight oats are perfect for a quick make-ahead breakfast.

Scale

2 cups rolled oats

4 tablespoons chia seeds

3–4 tablespoons brown sugar (light, regular, or dark)

1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 bananas)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

¼ teaspoon cinnamon or more

2 cups milk or non-dairy alternative (or water)

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1. Peel and mash ripe bananas until smooth.

2. In a large bowl, combine oats, chia seeds, brown sugar, mashed bananas, cinnamon, salt, and milk. Mix well.

3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

4. Stir before serving, then add your desired toppings such as sliced bananas, granola, maple syrup, or caramelized bananas.

Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture; quick oats soften too much.

Choose fully ripe bananas for natural sweetness.

Store without toppings in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

To freeze, portion into jars, freeze up to 2 months, and thaw overnight in the fridge.

Enjoy cold or warm in the microwave.