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Banana Overnight Oats With Cinnamon – A Cozy, Make-Ahead Breakfast

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ripe banana, mashed (the spottier, the sweeter)
  • 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (not quick oats or steel-cut)
  • 1/2 cup milk of choice (dairy, almond, oat, soy, or coconut)
  • 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional but adds creaminess and protein)
  • 1–2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional)
  • Pinch of salt (balances sweetness)
  • Optional add-ins/toppings: chopped walnuts or pecans, chia seeds, peanut butter or almond butter, extra banana slices, cacao nibs, raisins, or a sprinkle of nutmeg.

Method
 

  1. Mash the banana: In a jar or bowl, mash the banana with a fork until mostly smooth. A few small chunks are fine.
  2. Add the wet ingredients: Stir in the milk, Greek yogurt, honey or maple syrup, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined.
  3. Add the dry ingredients: Stir in the oats and cinnamon. If using chia seeds for extra thickness, add 1–2 teaspoons now.
  4. Adjust sweetness and spice: Taste the mixture. Add a little more honey or cinnamon if you like it sweeter or spicier.
  5. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight. The oats will soften and thicken as they absorb the liquid.
  6. Stir and serve: In the morning, give it a good stir. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk. Top with banana slices, nuts, or a drizzle of nut butter.
  7. Take it to go: If you’re heading out, pack it in a lidded jar. Add toppings just before eating to keep them crisp.