Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• ✓Tastes just like a classic PB&J sandwich!
• ✓Perfect for meal prep – make a batch for the week.
• ✓Packed with 18g of protein and 12g of fiber to keep you full.
• ✓Completely customizable with your favorite nut butters, jams, and milks.

Equipment You’ll Need

• ✓Two 16-ounce jars with lids (mason jars work great)
• ✓Measuring cups and spoons
• ✓A small mixing bowl
• ✓Spoon or whisk

Ingredients

• ✓1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (use certified gluten-free if needed)
• ✓1 cup milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy like almond or oat milk)
• ✓1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess and protein)
• ✓2 tbsp chia seeds
• ✓2 tbsp creamy or crunchy peanut butter, plus more for topping
• ✓1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional, adjust to taste)
• ✓1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• ✓Pinch of salt
• ✓4 tbsp strawberry or raspberry jam/preserves
• ✓For topping: fresh berries, crushed peanuts

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, chia seeds, and salt. Whisk to combine.
2. Add the milk, Greek yogurt (if using), 2 tablespoons of peanut butter, maple syrup (if using), and vanilla extract to the bowl.
3. Stir everything together until well-combined and there are no clumps of peanut butter or dry spots.
4. Divide the oat mixture evenly between your two jars.
5. Seal the jars with their lids and place them in the refrigerator to set for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight (8 hours is ideal).
6. In the morning, give the oats a quick stir. Top each jar with 2 tablespoons of jam, an extra drizzle of peanut butter, a sprinkle of crushed peanuts, and fresh berries before serving.

Expert Cooking Tips

• ✓Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best chewy texture. Instant oats will become mushy, and steel-cut oats won’t soften enough.
• ✓Stir the mixture thoroughly before refrigerating to ensure the chia seeds are evenly distributed and don’t clump at the bottom.
• ✓For a beautiful layered or swirled effect, wait to add the jam until the morning just before you plan to eat it.

Substitutions and Variations

Feel free to get creative! You can swap peanut butter for almond butter, cashew butter, or a seed butter like sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option. Any type of milk works, from whole milk to oat, soy, or coconut milk. Your favorite jam flavor will be delicious, or you can use fresh mashed berries for a lower-sugar alternative. Agave nectar can be used in place of maple syrup or honey.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

The most common mistake is using the wrong type of oats; stick to rolled oats for the perfect consistency. Another pitfall is not letting the oats chill long enough. They need at least 4 hours for the chia seeds and oats to absorb the liquid and create that signature creamy, pudding-like texture. Finally, don’t forget the pinch of salt! It enhances all the other flavors and balances the sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

These PB&J overnight oats are a complete meal in a jar! Serve them chilled, straight from the fridge. For extra texture and flavor, add toppings right before eating. We love a sprinkle of crunchy granola, fresh sliced strawberries or raspberries, a few banana slices, or a dusting of cinnamon. Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or tea for the perfect start to your day.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Overnight oats are perfect for meal prep. Store them in airtight jars in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The oats will continue to soften over time, so they’ll be creamiest on days 1 and 2. It’s best to add toppings just before serving to keep them from getting soggy. We do not recommend freezing this recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! To make it vegan, simply use a plant-based milk (like almond, soy, or oat milk), a dairy-free yogurt (or omit it entirely), and use maple syrup instead of honey as your sweetener.

My oats seem too thick or too thin. How can I fix it?

The consistency can vary depending on your ingredients (especially the type of yogurt and protein powder, if added). If it’s too thick in the morning, stir in a splash more milk until it reaches your desired consistency. If it seems too thin, you can add another teaspoon of chia seeds, stir, and let it sit for another 30 minutes.

Conclusion

There you have it – a simple, delicious, and healthy breakfast that brings back the best childhood memories. These Peanut Butter and Jelly Overnight Oats are a game-changer for busy mornings and a recipe you’ll find yourself making week after week. We hope you love them as much as we do!