Overnight Oats with Water (No Milk Needed!)

These Overnight Oats with Water are simple, quick, and perfect for an easy meal prepped breakfast. Made with rolled oats and water, they soak overnight to become soft and creamy. No milk needed! You can enjoy them straight from the fridge or warm them up for a cozy morning meal.

This overnight oats recipe is made with water instead of milk, making it simple, filling, and completely customizable. 

It's perfect for busy mornings when you need a grab-and-go breakfast or a quick snack. 

Ingredients

While milk naturally adds creaminess, using water doesn't mean your oats have to be bland.

This simple, affordable method still makes a satisfying and flavorful breakfast. Add your favorite toppings like nuts, fruit, or a sprinkle of cinnamon!

Old-Fashioned Oats: I highly recommend using Old-Fashioned Oats(Rolled Oats) instead of quick-cooking oats. Quick oats will be thinner and have a mushy consistency which is not ideal.

Chia Seeds: When soaked, chia seeds absorb liquid and help the oats thicken overnight, giving them a creamy texture.

Water: Even without milk, these overnight oats stay creamy and flavorful when made with water.

Plant-Based Yogurt: Adding a spoonful of plant-based yogurt, like coconut, soy, or almond, can make your oats creamier and add a touch of flavor.

Maple Syrup: Just a tablespoon for sweetness!

Vanilla Extract: Vanilla adds a lot of flavor to the oats! You can also add cinnamon, nutmeg, or even pumpkin pie spice for some additional flavor.

Helpful Equipment

One of the best things about these overnight oats with water is how simple they are to make. No special equipment needed! 

Jars or containers are perfect for prepping individual servings and storing them in the fridge.

How to Make This Recipe

Surprisingly, overnight oats can still be creamy and delicious by using water!

Step 1: Add the old-fashioned oats, water, vegan yogurt, chia seeds, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt into a jar that has a lid.

Step 2: Stir well to combine and seal the lid tight. Place in the fridge overnight.

The next morning, remove the lid and stir well.

Add any desired toppings and enjoy tasty simple overnight oats!

Toppings

Even with just water, these overnight oats can be packed with flavor and texture. Here are some easy ways to customize it:

• Fruits: Chopped dates, sliced banana, diced apple, and berries are great toppings.
• Want to add frozen fruit? Try my Overnight Oats With Frozen Fruit.
• Nuts & Seeds: Chopped almonds, walnuts, pecans, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds add crunch!
• Optional Creaminess: Stir in a spoonful of nut butter!

Tips: Mix and match toppings based on what you have on hand. Layer fruit on top or fold it in. Either way, you'll end up with a delicious breakfast!

Substitutions

Maple Syrup: Agave syrup is a great replacement for maple syrup.

If you're also skipping chia seeds or yogurt, check out my Overnight Oats Without Chia Seeds or these creamy Overnight Oats Without Yogurt for alternatives.

Tips & Tricks

Use rolled oats for the best texture. Quick oats will soak faster but can become too soft and mushy.

Don't skimp on toppings! These oats are made with water and if you add just oats and water- you're in for a very bland and boring experience. Add nut butter, yogurt, apples, bananas, or whatever delicious toppings you enjoy!

If your oats are too runny in the morning, let them soak a little longer or add a spoonful of rolled oats. If they're too thick, stir in a splash of water.

Storage

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

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