Overnight Oats without Yogurt

Overnight Oats without Yogurt can still be thick, creamy, and just as delicious. This dairy-free recipe uses a spoonful of nut butter to add richness and create the perfect texture. Made with simple ingredients, it's easy to customize and perfect for a quick, make-ahead breakfast you can grab straight from the fridge.

If you've ever been worried that skipping yogurt would make overnight oats thin or watery, this combination ensures they turn out just as creamy.

As the oats soak, they absorb liquid and soften while still maintaining a hearty texture.

Chia seeds help thicken the mixture, while nut or seed butter adds richness and creates a smooth, creamy consistency similar to yogurt.

Ingredients

Here's what you'll need to make this recipe, along with a few simple notes to help you get the best texture and flavor.

Old-Fashioned Oats: Use rolled oats for the best texture. They soften overnight while staying thick and chewy, unlike quick oats which can become mushy.

Plant-Based Milk: Any plant-based milk works, but thicker options like oat or soy milk will give you a creamier result.

Chia Seeds: Chia seeds absorb liquid as they soak, helping thicken the oats and create a more pudding-like texture.

Nut Butter: Peanut butter or almond butter work especially well, but any nut or seed butter can be used.

How to Make This Recipe

I've tested this recipe without yogurt multiple ways, and this combination consistently gives the creamiest results.

Step 1: Add the old-fashioned oats to a jar or container with a lid.

Step 2: Add the plant-based milk, chia seeds, nut butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.

Step 3: Stir to combine and seal the lid on the jar or container. Place it in the refrigerator and let it sit overnight. 

Step 4: Next day, add any desired toppings and enjoy!

Topping Ideas

There are endless ways to customize this simple overnight oats recipe with your favorite toppings.

• Fresh Fruit: Fresh berries, sliced bananas, diced apples, and chopped mango are delicious options to top off oats with.
• If you want to use frozen fruit as a topping, try my Overnight Oats With Frozen Fruit.
• Dried Fruits: Try raisins, cranberries, apricots, or dates.
• Granola: Homemade blueberry granola is delicious and adds crunch! Shredded coconut or coconut flakes would be great as well.
• Chocolate: Dark chocolate chips or cocoa powder are wonderful options for a chocolaty twist.
• Jam or Fruit Preserves: Blackberry and strawberry are my favorites!

Substitutions & Variations

If you're skipping yogurt, these ingredients help create a thick, creamy texture:

• Nut butter: Adds richness and helps mimic the creaminess of yogurt
• Chia seeds: Absorb liquid and naturally thicken the oats
• Mashed banana: Adds natural sweetness and a soft texture
• Coconut milk: A richer option for extra creaminess

If you want to skip chia seeds, check out my Overnight Oats Without Chia Seeds recipe.

If you prefer not to use nut butter, you can substitute with ¼ cup of mashed banana, pumpkin purée, applesauce, or canned coconut milk. For best results, reduce the milk by ¼ cup.

Tips & Tricks

Adjust the liquid for creaminess: Without yogurt, you may need a little extra plant-based milk or water.

Let the oats soak long enough: For the best texture, refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal.

Add toppings just before serving: For the best texture and flavor, wait to add toppings like fruit or granola until right before eating.

Storage

Store your overnight oats in an airtight jar or container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

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