Easy Cherry Overnight Oats with Chia Seeds

These Cherry Overnight Oats soak oats and chia seeds in a tart, creamy cherry milk. Refreshing, filling, and easy to make ahead of time, they’re a summer meal prep game changer! Vegan; Gluten-Free and Nut-Free Options.

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Diet Gluten Free, Vegan, Vegetarian

Method No-Bake

Prep Time 15

Total Time 15

Servings servings

Calories 293kcal

Author Caitlin Shoemaker

Ingredients

For the Cherry “Milk”:

1/2 cup fresh or frozen pitted cherries
2 cups creamy non-dairy milk
2 tablespoons grade A maple syrup plus more to taste
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract optional
Pinch of salt
Optional: 2 tablespoons cocoa powder for chocolate cherry oats*

For the Oatmeal:

2 cups quick-cooking or rolled oats*
2 tablespoons chia seeds or sub ground flaxseed
1 cup pitted cherries roughly chopped (optional)
Topping suggestions: nut butter hemp hearts, almonds, etc.

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Make the Cherry “Milk”: Add the cherries to a high-speed blender along with the milk, maple syrup, vanilla, almond extract (if using), and salt. Blend on high for 45 to 60 seconds, until the berries are finely blended into the milk.
Mix: Add the oats and chia seeds to a large bowl and mix well. Pour the milk into the bowl, then add the chopped cherries and stir until everything is combined. Let sit for at least 5 minutes, to allow the oats and chia seeds to absorb some of the liquid. Then, mix again to incorporate the extra liquid sitting on top.
Store & Serve: Transfer the oatmeal to jars or other containers, then store in the fridge for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. Top as desired and enjoy cold or warm; leftovers will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Video

Notes

Non-dairy Milk: I recommend using a thick and creamy milk, like cashew, oat, or soy milk.
Protein Powder: For a protein boost, add 1 scoop of vanilla or chocolate protein powder to the dry ingredients along with the oats. Add an additional 2 tablespoons of plant milk, and omit the sweetener if your protein powder is sweetened.

Nutrition