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Bowl of brown sugar overnight oats topped with fresh fruit and nuts

Brown Sugar Overnight Oats

This Brown Sugar Overnight Oats recipe is a nourishing, gluten-free breakfast option that combines rolled oats, chia seeds, mashed banana, and brown sugar for natural sweetness, providing a comforting start to your day.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 8 hours
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Essentials
  • 2 cups rolled oats (certified gluten-free) Look for the 'certified gluten-free' label.
  • 4 tablespoons chia seeds Adds fiber and helps thicken the oats.
  • 3-4 tablespoons brown sugar Adjust sweetness to taste.
  • 1 cup mashed banana About 2 ripe bananas.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Use gluten-free vanilla extract.
  • 1 pinch salt Balances sweetness.
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional) Pairs beautifully with banana and brown sugar.
  • 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based) Choose unsweetened to control sugar.
Optional Add-ons
  • Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla) For creaminess and extra protein.
  • Nut butter (peanut, almond, cashew) Swirl for flavor and protein.
  • Protein powder (gluten-free) To increase protein content.
  • Seeds (pumpkin, hemp) For added crunch.
  • Unsweetened cocoa powder For a chocolate twist.
  • Zest (orange or lemon) Brightens flavor.
  • Toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts For texture.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large mixing bowl or a 1-quart jar, combine the rolled oats and chia seeds. Stir to ensure the chia seeds are evenly distributed.
  2. Mix in the brown sugar, salt, and optional cinnamon. Taste the mixture to adjust sweetness.
  3. In a small bowl, mash the ripe bananas until mostly smooth, leaving some small chunks for texture.
  4. Add the mashed bananas, vanilla extract, and milk to the oat-chia mixture. Stir well to combine.
Refrigeration
  1. Transfer the mixture into individual jars or a single airtight container. Cover tightly.
  2. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, to allow the oats and chia seeds to absorb the liquid.
Serving
  1. When ready to eat, stir the oats. If too thick, add a splash of milk. Add optional toppings such as fresh fruit, nuts, or yogurt before serving.

Notes

For the best gluten-free experience, always check labels on packaged ingredients and use dedicated utensils to prevent cross-contamination.