Gluten-Free Classic Overnight Oats
Gluten-Free Classic overnight oats made simple! This recipe with granola takes 5 minutes to prep for a nourishing, creamy breakfast that’s ready when you wake up.
You know what changed my mornings completely? Discovering that I could make breakfast while I slept. Seriously, classic overnight oats became my secret weapon when juggling busy mornings with my gluten-free lifestyle.
There’s something magical about waking up to a breakfast that’s already waiting for you in the fridge. No frantic morning cooking, no skipping meals because you’re rushing out the door—just grab your jar and go.
These granola overnight oats are as easy as they come, and they taste like creamy, dreamy comfort in a jar. Plus, they’re endlessly customizable, which means you’ll never get bored with this gluten-free breakfast staple.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Gluten-free rolled oats | 1/2 cup |
| Milk of choice | 3/4 cup |
| Chia seeds | 1 tablespoon |
| Cinnamon | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Vanilla extract (optional) | Splash |
| Topping Ideas | |
| Nut butter | To taste |
| Gluten-free granola | To taste |
| Coconut flakes | To taste |
| Fresh fruit | To taste |
Instructions
Step 1: Grab your favorite jar or airtight container—I love using mason jars because they’re the perfect single-serving size. Add your gluten-free rolled oats, milk, chia seeds, cinnamon, and that splash of vanilla if you’re using it (trust me, the vanilla makes everything better).
Step 2: Give everything a good stir with a spoon, making sure those chia seeds don’t clump together at the bottom. The mixture will look pretty liquidy at this point, but don’t worry—that’s exactly what you want for creamy overnight oats with granola.
Step 3: Pop the lid on your container and tuck it into the fridge for at least 2-3 hours, though overnight is ideal. The oats will absorb all that liquid and transform into a thick, pudding-like texture that’s as soft as morning clouds. When you’re ready to eat, just add your favorite toppings and dig in!
Substitutions
Milk Options: Any milk works beautifully in these classic overnight oats. Almond milk gives a subtle nutty flavor, oat milk creates extra creaminess, and coconut milk adds tropical richness. Even regular dairy milk works perfectly if you’re not avoiding it.
Chia Seed Alternatives: Don’t have chia seeds on hand? Ground flaxseed works just as well at a 1:1 ratio. Both add thickness and a nutritional boost to your granola overnight oats without changing the flavor.
Sweetener Additions: If you prefer sweeter overnight oats, stir in a teaspoon of maple syrup, honey, or your favorite sweetener before refrigerating. You can also add mashed banana for natural sweetness and extra creaminess.
Oat Varieties: Make sure you’re using certified gluten-free rolled oats or old-fashioned oats. Steel-cut oats won’t work for this recipe since they need cooking, and quick oats will turn mushy instead of achieving that perfect chewy texture.
Troubleshooting
Too Thick? If your overnight oats granola turns out thicker than you’d like, just stir in an extra splash of milk in the morning. The oats continue absorbing liquid as they sit, so this is totally normal and easy to fix.
Too Runny? This usually means you didn’t let them sit long enough or used too much liquid. Pop them back in the fridge for another hour or two, or stir in an extra tablespoon of oats to absorb the excess moisture.
Oats Are Hard or Chewy in a Bad Way? Your gluten-free rolled oats might need more soaking time, especially if you’re using particularly thick-cut varieties. Well… I’ve found that some brands just need a solid 8 hours to fully soften, so give them the full overnight treatment.
Separated or Watery on Top? Just give everything a good stir before eating. According to Harvard’s nutrition research on whole grains, this separation is completely normal and doesn’t affect the nutritional value of your breakfast at all.
Storage and Meal Prep
These classic overnight oats keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 5 days, making them perfect for meal prep Sunday sessions. I usually make 3-4 jars at once so I’m set for most of the week without thinking about breakfast.
Store them in individual containers with tight-fitting lids so you can grab and go each morning. Add your granola and fresh toppings right before eating to keep everything crunchy and fresh—nobody wants soggy overnight oats with granola!
Serving Suggestions
Man, oh man, the topping possibilities are endless with these overnight oats granola bowls! My go-to combo is a dollop of almond butter, a handful of my favorite gluten-free granola, fresh berries, and a drizzle of honey.
For a protein boost, stir in a scoop of your favorite protein powder before refrigerating or top with Greek yogurt in the morning. You can also create a peanut butter cup version by mixing in cocoa powder and topping with peanut butter and chocolate chips.
Variations
Berry Bliss: Stir in 2 tablespoons of berry jam or mashed berries before refrigerating for naturally sweet and fruity granola overnight oats. Top with fresh berries and a sprinkle of coconut flakes in the morning.
Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Add 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder and a touch of maple syrup to create chocolate overnight oats that taste like dessert for breakfast. Kids absolutely love this version!
Apple Cinnamon: Mix in 1/4 cup of diced apples and an extra pinch of cinnamon for a fall-inspired breakfast that tastes like apple pie. This variation is perfect for Thanksgiving morning when you want something special but easy.
Tropical Escape: Use coconut milk, add shredded coconut to the base, and top with pineapple, mango, and macadamia nuts. It’s like a vacation in a jar, and my favorite summer variation of these classic overnight oats.
Savory Option: Yes, really! Skip the cinnamon and vanilla, use vegetable broth instead of milk, and top with avocado, everything bagel seasoning, and a soft-boiled egg. It sounds wild but tastes incredible if you’re tired of sweet breakfasts.
Gluten-Free Classic Overnight Oats FAQ
Can I make overnight oats without chia seeds?
Absolutely! While chia seeds help thicken these granola overnight oats and add extra nutrition, they’re not essential. Your oats will still soften beautifully overnight—they’ll just be slightly less thick and creamy.
How long do overnight oats need to soak?
A minimum of 2-3 hours will work in a pinch, but overnight (6-8 hours) is ideal for the best texture. The gluten-free rolled oats need time to fully absorb the liquid and soften into that perfect creamy consistency we’re after.
What’s the best milk for overnight oats with granola?
Honestly, use whatever milk you love or have on hand! Creamier options like oat milk or coconut milk create richer classic overnight oats, while almond milk keeps things lighter. There’s no wrong choice here.
What makes oats gluten-free?
Oats are naturally gluten-free, but they’re often contaminated during processing with wheat, barley, or rye. Always choose certified gluten-free oats for your overnight oats with granola to ensure they’re safe. The Celiac Disease Foundation provides detailed guidance on selecting safe gluten-free grains.
Can I eat overnight oats warm?
You bet! Just microwave your overnight oats granola for 30-60 seconds if you prefer a warm breakfast. The texture changes slightly—less pudding-like and more like traditional oatmeal—but it’s equally delicious.
Want more effortless gluten-free breakfast ideas? Try these wholesome oatmeal apple pancakes for weekend mornings or this nourishing vanilla millet porridge when you want something warm and comforting. Both are just as simple and family-friendly as these classic overnight oats!
Gluten-Free Classic Overnight Oats
Equipment
- Mason jar or airtight container
- Spoon
Ingredients
- ½ cup gluten-free rolled oats
- ¾ cup milk of choice almond, oat, coconut, or dairy
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 splash vanilla extract optional
Topping Ideas
- nut butter to taste
- gluten-free granola to taste
- coconut flakes to taste
- fresh fruit to taste
Instructions
- Grab your favorite jar or airtight container—I love using mason jars because they’re the perfect single-serving size. Add your gluten-free rolled oats, milk, chia seeds, cinnamon, and that splash of vanilla if you’re using it (trust me, the vanilla makes everything better).
- Give everything a good stir with a spoon, making sure those chia seeds don’t clump together at the bottom. The mixture will look pretty liquidy at this point, but don’t worry—that’s exactly what you want for creamy overnight oats with granola.
- Pop the lid on your container and tuck it into the fridge for at least 2-3 hours, though overnight is ideal. The oats will absorb all that liquid and transform into a thick, pudding-like texture that’s as soft as morning clouds. When you’re ready to eat, just add your favorite toppings and dig in!
