Name: Banana Coconut Overnight Oats
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: PT-480600H45M9S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk (or any milk of your choice); 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon chia seeds; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup; 1 banana, mashed; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut; 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional); Additional banana slices and coconut flakes for topping (optional)

Serving Tips:

Serving Size: This recipe yields two servings. You can easily adjust the quantity based on your needs by doubling or halving the ingredients.

Toppings: Customize your oats with a variety of toppings for added flavor and texture. Try fresh fruit, nuts, seeds, nut butter, or a sprinkle of granola.

Temperature: Enjoy these overnight oats cold straight from the fridge for a refreshing start to your day. If you prefer them warm, you can heat them in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring halfway through.

Portable Breakfast: If you’re on the go, transfer the oats to a mason jar or portable container with a lid. They make an excellent travel-friendly breakfast or snack.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store the prepared overnight oats in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days. This makes them perfect for meal prep, allowing you to make a batch ahead of time.

Separation: If the oats and liquids separate during storage, simply stir them together before serving.

Freezing: While overnight oats can be frozen, it’s best to do so without added toppings. Freeze in individual portions in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving, and add fresh toppings before eating.

Avoid Over-Mixing: When adding fresh fruit or nuts as toppings, add them right before serving to maintain their freshness and texture. Mixing them in too early can cause them to become soggy.

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FAQs:

Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats for overnight oats?

Yes, you can use instant oats, but the texture will be softer and less chewy compared to rolled oats. If you prefer a more porridge-like consistency, instant oats are a good option. Keep in mind that they may absorb liquid more quickly, so you might need to adjust the amount of milk or yogurt.

Can I make these Banana Coconut Overnight Oats dairy-free?

Absolutely! To make this recipe dairy-free, simply use a plant-based yogurt and milk. Coconut yogurt and almond milk are great options that complement the tropical flavors of the recipe. You can also use other plant-based options like soy or oat milk.

How can I make the overnight oats sweeter without using honey or maple syrup?

You can naturally sweeten the oats by adding more mashed banana or using other fruits like dates, applesauce, or dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries. A dash of cinnamon or a pinch of stevia can also add sweetness without additional sugar.

Can I add protein powder to my overnight oats?

Yes, you can add protein powder to your overnight oats to boost the protein content. Simply mix in a scoop of your favorite protein powder when combining the other ingredients. You may need to add a bit more liquid, as protein powder can thicken the mixture. Vanilla or unflavored protein powder works well with this recipe.