Overnight oats made with coconut milk are a nutritious, make-ahead breakfast you can enjoy cold or warm. Full-fat coconut milk, chia seeds, and vanilla create a silky, creamy texture that keeps you satisfied longer than plain oatmeal. Prepare single jars for a grab-and-go meal or make several jars for the week.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Meal prep friendly: Make one or many jars ahead of time for healthy breakfasts throughout the week.
- No cooking required: The jar method takes minutes to assemble and sets in the fridge overnight—ready to eat the next morning.
- Choose full-fat coconut milk: Full-fat canned coconut milk delivers richer flavor and better value than “light” canned versions; you can dilute it yourself if desired.
- Customizable: Top with fresh fruit, nut butter, toasted coconut, extra milk, or yogurt to suit your taste.
Ingredients
Basic pantry ingredients are all you need for this make-ahead breakfast:
- Oats: Use whole rolled oats (not quick oats or steel-cut oats) for the best texture.
- Chia seeds: These help thicken the oats and add protein, fiber, and omega-3s.
- Full-fat canned coconut milk: Stir until smooth before measuring.
- Cardamom: Ground cardamom pairs beautifully with vanilla and maple syrup; optional but recommended.
How to make (step-by-step photos)
Combine the ingredients in a lidded jar, chill overnight to thicken, and enjoy cold or gently warmed the next morning.
The recipe card below includes full ingredient amounts and instructions.
Recipe videos
Watch these short videos to see the simple assembly and how to enjoy the oats hot if you prefer.
Toppings ideas
- Tropical: Raspberries, mango, and toasted coconut.
- Blueberry Dream: Blueberries, almond butter, and sliced almonds.
- Chunky Monkey: Bananas, peanut butter, and cacao nibs or chopped chocolate.
- Apple Crumble: Applesauce, cinnamon, and granola.
- PB&J: Strawberries or strawberry jam paired with peanut butter.
Frequently asked questions
This recipe is formulated using full-fat coconut milk plus water. Light canned coconut milk is typically diluted full-fat milk and tends to be less flavorful. If you must use light coconut milk, use it to replace both the full-fat coconut milk and the water in the recipe so the coconut flavor is not lost.
It’s best to add toppings after the oats have set, as some toppings may sink into the mixture while it thickens. For meal-prepped jars, add toppings after the first night for the best presentation.
For food safety and quality, keep overnight oats refrigerated and enjoy within 3 to 4 days.
Love this recipe? Please leave a 5-star review below!
📖 Recipe
Overnight Oats with Coconut Milk
Ingredients
- ½ cup rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- ½ cup water
- â…“ cup full-fat coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)
Instructions
-
Combine: In a lidded jar or container, add oats, chia seeds, water, stirred coconut milk, maple syrup, vanilla, and cardamom if using. Stir until evenly mixed. Cover and refrigerate overnight (at least 6 hours).
-
Enjoy: Eat cold straight from the jar, or warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add toppings just before serving.
Notes
- Oats: Use whole rolled oats for the best texture.
- Coconut milk: Stir canned full-fat coconut milk until smooth before measuring. If separated, whisk to combine; warming slightly helps. “Light” coconut milk is simply watered-down full-fat coconut milk and often lacks flavor.
- Warm variation: When heating, add a splash of extra coconut milk or other milk to loosen the texture if desired.
- Toppings: Fresh fruit, nut butters, toasted coconut, chopped nuts, dried fruit, or extra coconut milk are all delicious additions.
- Storage: Refrigerate prepared oats for up to 3 to 4 days.
Nutrition
|
Carbohydrates: 48 g
|
Protein: 9 g
Let us know by leaving a rating below and tag us on Instagram!