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Home ยป Recipes ยป Breakfast

Protein Overnight Oats

Ayeh author bio picture
BY Ayeh Manfre ยท UPDATED: Jan 26, 25 ยท PUBLISHED: Apr 12, 24 ยท 2 Comments
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These Protein Overnight Oats are a game changer and perfect for busy mornings. Made in minutes with 4 ingredients packed with 28 grams of protein! Here I share 8 of my favorite flavor combinations to try ๐Ÿ™‚

Protein overnight oats with 3 flavors

I love eating overnight oats for breakfast. It's what I eat on most mornings as they are healthy, easy to make and keep me full throughout the morning, not to mention delicious! Here with this protein overnight oats recipe, you can get all the same benefits with added protein too. You get 28 grams of protein per serve which keeps you energized!

You can also switch up the flavors and toppings to keep things fun and new so that you don't get bored of the same taste. Here I've included 8 flavor variations to try!

The best part about these high protein overnight oats, is that its great for meal prep which saves so much time. Make it the night before, and its ready to eat in the morning. You can also make a big batch if you prefer, which keeps in the fridge for days. If you love overnight oats, check out my classic overnight oats and my tiramisu overnight oats which is like a healthy dessert for brekkie.

When it comes to toppings, the options are endless! From fruits such as bananas and berries to nuts, nut butters or even granola for some crunch, which is a personal favorite . I recommend to add the toppings in the morning before serving to keep it fresh.

Some other high protein breakfast ideas to try are my Greek yogurt pancakes, easy protein granola and crispy feta eggs.

Table of Contents
  • Why you'll love this recipe
  • Protein Overnight Oats without Protein Powder
  • Ingredients and Substitutions
  • Toppings and Additional Ingredients
  • How to make Protein Overnight Oats
  • Tips and Tricks
  • Storage Instructions
  • FAQs
  • More Oatmeal Recipes
  • More Protein Breakfasts
  • Recipe
  • Comments

Why you'll love this recipe

  • Quick & Easy: Easy steps prepared in minutes using 4 ingredients 
  • Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber and nutrients to keep you energized and satiated throughout your morning 
  • Meal Prep: Just a few minutes of prep the night before and you've got breakfast for the week!
  • Customizable: Endless possibilities to mix and match with different flavors and toppings such as granola, nut butters, fruits and nuts

Protein Overnight Oats without Protein Powder

I've used vegan protein powder for the protein boost in this recipe. If however you prefer not to use protein powder, thats totally fine too! Instead, you can use Greek yogurt which is deliciously creamy, and packed with protein, calcium and probiotics for your gut health. I've also included this recipe in the recipe card notes below

Chocolate flavor with strawberries and choc chips

Ingredients and Substitutions

  • Traditional rolled oats, also known as old fashioned oats are the base for the overnight oats. It's best not to use quick oats or steel cut oats as this will change the overall texture. If needed, you can also purchase certified gluten-free oats
  • Protein powder is added for the protein boost. I usually vary between chocolate or vanilla protein powder depending on the flavor I'm making. If you prefer to make it without protein powder, I also have a variation in the notes of the recipe card using Greek yogurt
  • Milk of choice for the liquid portion. I always prefer dairy-free milk, my favorites are almond milk or oat milk. Coconut milk or soy milk are also yummy options too. You can substitute with water if needed which will be lighter however less creamy also
  • Chia seeds are filled with fibre, nutrients and omega 3 along with added protein. They absorb the liquid after soaking and expand becoming chewy and soft which adds to the yummy texture. Substitute with ground flaxseeds which are also wonderful for the body

Toppings and Additional Ingredients

I've included 8 flavor variations to try in my recipe card below! You can also add one or more of these additional ingredients to the base of the oatmeal mixture or for toppings before serving.

  • Fruits including bananas, berries, apples, kiwi fruit
  • Granola
  • Yogurt including dairy-free yogurt
  • Mini chocolate chips or cacao powder
  • Cinnamon or vanilla extract
  • Added sweetener such as maple syrup, agave or a drizzle of honey
  • Nuts including almonds, walnuts, pecans , peanuts or others
  • Nut butters such as peanut butter, almond butter or a seed butter to keep nut-free
3 flavors with toppings of protein overnight oats

How to make Protein Overnight Oats

Kick start your morning with this delicious protein overnight oats. Follow my simple steps below.

Add rolled oats, chia seeds and protein powder in a mason jar or cup  

Mix together to combine

Add milk and stir well (ensure there are no clumps)

Place lid or plastic wrap and put in the fridge overnight or for 4hrs minimum

Classic flavor with strawberries and granola toppings

Tips and Tricks

  1. Oats have different absorption levels. So start with the liquid in the recipe then add additional if needed upon serving to your desired consistency
  2. Protein powders usually add sufficient sweetness so I prefer not to add any additional sweetener. If you like it sweeter, feel free to add maple syrup, agave or honey
  3. Add toppings just before eating, this way they stay fresh with the right textures
  4. Make a big batch by doubling or tripling the recipe so you can have enough for the week in either mason jars or one large container. The longer the oats are kept, the thicker the consistency will become. So just add a splash of milk or water upon serving

Storage Instructions

  • Store in an airtight container or mason jar in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also use a glass or bowl covered with plastic wrap
  • They are best enjoyed cold, however if you prefer you can warm them up in the microwave for 30-60 seconds
Close up to show texture of overnight oats

FAQs

How healthy are overnight oats?

Overnight oats are a nutritious choice for breakfast as they are packed with fiber, protein and nutrients to keep you fuelled throughout your morning. Ensure to add nutritious additions and toppings such as fresh fruit, natural sweeteners and nut butters for an extra boost

Can I put protein in overnight oats?

Yes you sure can! Here Iโ€™ve made high protein overnight oats including protein powder. You will need slightly more liquid than usual to ensure you have the right consistency as the protein will thicken the texture

How to make protein overnight oats without protein powder?

Rather than protein powder, you can add extra protein to your overnight oats with greek yogurt which provides probiotics, calcium and makes it extra creamy. Natural nut butter, nuts and seeds will also add more protein

Close up of spoon in a chocolate overnight oats

More Oatmeal Recipes

Looking for more recipes like this?

  • Easy overnight oats in glass jars topped with granola and strawberries
    Overnight Oats
  • Healthy breakfast cookies on baking paper
    Breakfast Cookies
  • Stack of Oat Flour Pancakes with pieces on a fork
    Oat Flour Pancakes
  • Healthy granola bars with 4 ingredients and drizzled with chocolate
    Healthy Granola Bars

More Protein Breakfasts

These are some of my favorites:

  • Stack of Greek yogurt pancakes topped with fresh berries, maple syrup and icing sugar
    Greek Yogurt Pancakes
  • Protein bagels made with 2 ingredients greek yogurt and wheat flour
    Protein Bagels
  • Crispy feta fried eggs served on a tortilla with smashed avocado
    Crispy Feta Fried Eggs
  • Persian Omelette in a pan with bread on the side
    Persian Omelette

I love seeing your creations and remakes, so be sure to rate the recipe, comment and share your Protein Overnight Oats photo on Instagram so I can share the love!

Recipe

3 flavors of protein overnight oats with toppings

Protein Overnight Oats (28 grams Protein only 4 Ingredients)

5 from 1 vote
These Protein Overnight Oats are a game changer and perfect for busy mornings. Made in minutes with only 4 ingredients packed with 28 grams of protein! Here I share 8 of my favorite flavor combinations to try
Author: Ayeh Manfre
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Servings: 1
Calories: 396kcal
Print
Prep Time5 minutes mins
Cook Time0 minutes mins
Resting Time4 hours hrs
Total Time4 hours hrs 5 minutes mins

Ingredients 

Base Recipe - See notes for flavor variations

  • ยฝ cup old fashioned rolled oats
  • ยพ cup milk of choice- I prefer oat milk or almond milk
  • 2 teaspoons chia seeds
  • 2 tablespoons vanilla or chocolate protein powder - see notes below for *without protein powder

Optional Toppings

  • Berries, granola, fruits, peanut butter or other nut butter, honey/agave, nuts, mini chocolate chips

Instructions

  • To a mason jar, glass or cup add the rolled oats, chia seeds and protein powder and mix together
  • Add the milk and stir well to combine. Ensure there are no clumps or any powder left at the bottom
  • Place the lid on or cover with plastic wrap and put in the fridge overnight or for a minimum of 4 hours
  • When ready to eat, check the consistency with a spoon. If it's too thick, add a splash of milk or water to thin out to your liking
    Add favorite toppings such as berries, granola or nuts and enjoy your delicious Protein Overnight Oats!
โญ๏ธ Final Step! Would love if you left a rating and comment to let me know how it went. Your feedback helps inspire others and means alot โค๏ธ

Notes

Flavor Variations:
Without Protein Powder
Add ยผ cup of plain greek yogurt and reduce the milk to ยฝ a cup. Add a dash of vanilla extract and a spoon of your preferred sweetener, eg honey or maple syrup. Top with banana and dollop of peanut butter or almond butter.
*Protein amount will depend on yogurt and additional ingredientsย 
Classic Vanilla
Use vanilla protein powder with an optional dash of vanilla extract and sweetener if you like it sweeter. Top with berries and granolaย 
Chocolate
Use chocolate protein powder, and if you like it extra rich, add a teaspoon of cacao powder. Top with mini chocolate chips or cacao nibs and strawberries
Peanut Butter
Use vanilla protein powder and 1 tablespoon of natural peanut butter to the mixture. Top with peanuts and dollop of peanut butter
Berry
Use vanilla protein powder and a handful of your favorite berries such as raspberries, blueberries, strawberries or a combination. Chop or mash the berries and stir through the mixture. Top with extra berries and granola
Banana Bread
Use vanilla protein powder and mash ยฝ a ripe banana. Add to the mixture along with a few chopped walnuts and ยฝ teaspoon of cinnamon. Top with banana and drizzle of honey
Tiramisu
Use vanilla protein powder and a shot of espresso coffee or teaspoon of instant coffee and vanilla extract to the mixture. Top with a layer of greek yogurt and dusting of cacao powder upon serving. Full recipe here for the base
Chocolate Peanut Butter
Use chocolate protein powder and 1 tablespoon of natural peanut butter to the mixture. For extra richness add a teaspoon of cacao powder. Top with peanuts and drizzle of peanut butter

Nutrition

Calories: 396kcal | Carbohydrates: 54g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 57mg | Sodium: 161mg | Potassium: 383mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 16g | Vitamin A: 373IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 474mg | Iron: 4mg
Keywords: healthy, high protein, meal prep, quick

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Comments

    5 from 1 vote (1 rating without comment)

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  1. kirstie says

    September 17, 2024 at 8:52 pm

    What protein powder do you use

    Reply
    • Ayeh Manfre says

      October 09, 2024 at 7:15 pm

      I use an organic vegan protein powder, and try to choose one with minimal ingredients ๐Ÿ™‚

      Reply
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Hey everyone! I love creating easy everyday recipes with a healthy twist that anyone can make. I will show you that you can eat delicious food, using wholesome ingredients that make you feel good from the inside out!

About Me โ†’

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