Overnight oats soften in the refrigerator rather than on the stove. Use rolled oats and ingredients suitable for this preparation according to their labels. Steel-cut oats and other products can need a different method, so do not substitute solely because the packages both say oats.
A lidded food-storage container is enough; a decorative jar is optional. Choose an opening wide enough to stir and eat from comfortably. The mixture should have room to expand and be stirred without spilling over the edge.
Decide when to add the apple
Grated apple mixed in at night gives a softer result and spreads its flavor through the oats. Diced apple added in the morning stays firmer. Wash the apple appropriately before preparing it and use clean utensils and surfaces.
The amount of liquid is a starting point. Different oats and yogurts produce different thicknesses. Stir in a little more milk in the morning if the mixture is too stiff, or use slightly less next time if you prefer a thicker bowl. Cinnamon can be strong, so begin with a modest amount.
Keep the oats refrigerated at 40°F or below throughout soaking and storage. An overnight preparation belongs in the refrigerator, not on the kitchen counter. If taking it to class, use proper chilled transport with adequate cold sources and refrigerate on arrival when possible.
Make a small batch you expect to eat soon and follow the shortest relevant storage guidance for the ingredients. Check milk or yogurt labels and any dietary requirements. Sweetener is optional; the apple and your chosen milk may already give enough sweetness.
Ingredients
Makes 2 small breakfasts
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup milk or a suitable unsweetened alternative
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt or a suitable alternative
- 1 medium apple, washed and grated or diced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 to 2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey, optional
- Extra milk to loosen in the morning, if needed
Method
- Combine oats, milk, yogurt and cinnamon in a clean lidded container. Stir in grated apple now if you want it soft, or reserve diced apple separately under appropriate refrigeration for the morning.
- Cover and refrigerate at 40°F or below for several hours or overnight, following the ingredients' storage instructions.
- In the morning, stir well and add a little milk if needed for your preferred texture. Add reserved apple if using.
- Taste before adding optional sweetener. Serve chilled and keep any remaining portion appropriately refrigerated.