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Hello! I’m Anjali. I’m a board certified health coach, author, wife, mom and food lover from the SF Bay area (now living in Seattle, WA!); with a passion for delicious food and a desire to make healthy eating easy, tasty and fun! Learn more about me here and stay for a while!

Anjali Shah

Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats

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This peanut butter banana overnight oats recipe is a game-changer for your busy mornings. A perfect blend of wholesome ingredients like steel cut oats, Greek yogurt, and flax seeds make a nutritious breakfast that’s ready when you are. The combination of creamy peanut butter and ripe banana is so delicious, and it will keep you full and satisfied!

Peanut butter banana overnight oats in a mason jar with strawberries.

After I finally tasted overnight oats, I understood what all the hype was about. They are massively filling, easy to make, and every spoonful is so incredibly satisfying!

While I don’t always do a lot of meal prepping, there are times when I like to plan ahead on Sunday night. Making these banana overnight oats for the week is a great way to always have an easy breakfast on hand. Plus, they’re packed with protein thanks to the oats and Greek yogurt. Each serving has a whopping 27 grams of protein and 10 grams of fiber!

Since you don’t need a microwave or stovetop, they’re the perfect make-ahead breakfast. On days when we are running behind and need a break, these oats swoop in and save the day!

This easy grab and go breakfast is so delicious, and it honestly tastes like dessert! Once you get the ratios right (and my recipe will show you exactly how), you’ll end up with the best texture every single time.

The best part? It’s versatile! You can easily customize it with your favorite toppings like fresh fruit or a drizzle of peanut butter. Plus, it’s the perfect meal prep recipe requiring only 5 minutes of your time. It’s also a great way to maintain healthy eating habits during times when you know you’ll be too busy to cook from scratch.

Simply prepare individual servings in a mason jar the night before! You have a quick, nourishing, and delicious meal waiting for you in the morning. This recipe truly stands out as a great option for a healthy, easy breakfast recipe that doesn’t compromise on taste.

👩🏽‍🍳 Why You’ll Love Banana Peanut Butter Overnight Oats

  • Plant-Based: This is one of the best overnight oats recipes for anyone following a plant-based diet. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients like steel-cut oats, almond or peanut butter, and flaxseed. It a perfect choice for vegans and vegetarians, or anyone looking for a satisfying and healthy breakfast option.
  • Quick And Easy: With a prep time of just five minutes, make this basic recipe the night before to reduce the stress of hectic mornings. Just mix the ingredients, store overnight, and enjoy a quick breakfast the next morning. It doesn’t get easier than that!
  • Gluten-Free: This overnight oats recipe uses steel-cut oats, which are a great option for those with gluten sensitivity. Just make sure to use certified gluten-free oats if you’re very sensitive to gluten.
  • Simple Ingredients: This healthy recipe uses convenient ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Plus, it’s easily customizable – you can add your favorite fruits or nuts for extra flavor and nutrients.
  • Family-Friendly: These delicious oats are sure to be a hit with the whole family. The combination of peanut butter and bananas make for a taste that everyone enjoys, kids and adults alike!
  • Lower Sugar: Unlike many store-bought options, this recipe has no added sugars. The sweetness comes naturally from ripe bananas and a dash of cinnamon.

Latest Recipe Video! 

🥘 Ingredients

It’s super easy to make a batch of healthy peanut butter banana overnight oats. Most of these wholesome items are pantry staples, and if not, they are easily found at your local grocery store!

Ingredients for peanut butter banana overnight oats recipe on a white background.
  • Steel Cut Oats: The star of these pb banana overnight oats, steel cut oats provide a heartier texture than their quick or old-fashioned counterparts. Pre-cooked, they soften overnight resulting in creamy oats with a delicious soft yet chewy consistency. They’re also a great source of fiber and protein.
  • Milk: The type of milk you choose is a matter of personal preference. Whether you opt for almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or regular dairy, it’s the key to creating that creamy texture we love in overnight oats.
  • Plain Low Fat Greek Yogurt: Adding a protein punch and a rich texture, Greek yogurt is a nutritious breakfast staple. It also helps to keep you feeling full until lunch.
  • Peanut Butter: This ingredient is a game changer for all the peanut butter lovers out there. Natural peanut butter adds healthy fats and a creamy richness. Plus, it is the perfect partner for the ripe banana in this recipe.
  • Ground Flax Seed & Sea Salt: Flax seeds are a powerhouse of nutrition, offering both fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. They give a slightly nutty flavor and help to thicken the mixture. Just a pinch of sea salt can help to enhance the other flavors in this oatmeal recipe.
  • Sliced Berries: Fresh fruit adds a natural sweetness and a burst of flavor to this banana peanut butter overnight oatmeal. Strawberries are a classic choice, but feel free to get creative based on your favorite things.
  • Banana: The banana combo with peanut butter is a classic combination. Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and a creamy texture.
  • Sliced Almonds Or Walnuts: A sprinkle of sliced almonds or walnuts adds a delicious crunch and an extra boost of healthy fats.
  • Cinnamon And Nutmeg: These spices are optional, but they add a warm, comforting flavor that pairs beautifully with the banana and peanut butter.

🍲 Ingredient Substitutions

  • Oats: You can use any kind of oats such as old-fashioned oats or certified gluten-free oats if you have a gluten sensitivity. I won’t recommend quick cooking oats since they are quite processed will get mushy in this recipe.
  • Milk: Any non-dairy milk like almond milk, cashew milk, or coconut milk can be used as a substitute. You can also use cow’s milk if you do not need this to be vegan!
  • Yogurt: You can use any plant-based yogurt as a substitute. Make sure to choose an unsweetened version to control the sweetness of your overnight oats.
  • Nut Butter: Don’t have peanut butter, or have a peanut allergy? No problem! Cashew butter, almond butter, or even sunflower seed butter all work great. Go with whatever you have on hand and customize the flavors. If you still want that regular peanut butter taste, use peanut butter powder for a lower-fat / lower calorie option.
  • Chia Seeds: Chia seeds can be a great substitute for flax seeds. Both provide a good amount of fiber and healthy fats.
  • Nuts: Any kind of nuts can be used based on your preference. You can also use seeds if you have a nut allergy.
  • Spices: These spices are optional but they add a nice flavor to the oats. Feel free to use your favorite spices or leave them out if you prefer. Some good swaps are clove, allspice, or a pumpkin pie spice.

🔪 How To Make Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats

Want the perfect breakfast that’s ready to go in to morning? Here’s how to make peanut butter banana overnight oats, your new favorite make-ahead breakfast solution! For more detailed instructions and nutritional information, see the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Cook The Steel Cut Oats: Start by cooking your steel cut oats. This is an important step, otherwise they won’t be the texture you are probably going for. They will puff up as they sit overnight but will be pretty crunchy by morning unless they are pre-cooked.

steel cut oats cooking in black pot over stovetop

Combine Ingredients: Once your oats are cooked, combine them with the rest of the ingredients through the ripe banana, either in a medium bowl or directly in the mason jar or airtight container. Give the ingredients a good stir until it is well combined.

Overnight oats being layered in a mason jar.

Refrigerate: Next, place your container in the fridge and let it sit overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the oats to soften, creating a delicious breakfast for the next morning.

Add Toppings: When you’re ready to eat, add a tablespoon of sliced almonds or walnuts and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg. Add additional sliced bananas, if desired. Stir it all together and enjoy these banana pb overnight oats!

peanut butter overnight oats in a mason jar with strawberries and bananas

💭 Expert Tips

  • Pre-Cook Your Steel-Cut Oats: Steel-cut oats require a longer cooking time than other types of oats. To ensure a softer, creamier texture in your peanut butter banana overnight oats, cook your steel-cut oats ahead of time.
  • Save The Toppings For The Next Morning: To maintain the freshness and crunch of your toppings, add them just before you’re ready to eat your delicious breakfast. Toppings can turn soggy if left overnight.
  • Get The Liquid-To-Oats Ratio Right: The secret to perfect overnight oats is getting the right balance of liquid to oats. If you skimp on the liquid, your oats won’t be able to absorb enough to become creamy and delicious.
  • Mix Well Before Refrigeration: To guarantee that every oat gets a good soak, give your mixture a good stir before popping it into the fridge. This will help all the oats to be equally immersed in the liquid, leading to a consistent texture throughout.
  • Boost Of Sweetness: If you want your oats to be a touch more sweet, feel free to add in some pure maple syrup or a drizzle of honey.

📖 Variations

There are so many fun and easy overnight oats recipes that you can make! Using our peanut butter banana overnights as the base, here are a few ways to switch things up:

  • Chocolate Peanut Butter Overnight Oats: If you’re a chocolate and peanut butter lover, this variation is for you. Instead of banana, add in some unsweetened cocoa powder and a dash of vanilla extract. You can still add in the berries if you want, or enjoy it as a chocolate and peanut butter combination. Top it off with some chocolate chips for an indulgent treat.
  • Apple Pie Overnight Oats: Craving for a taste of fall? Swap all the fruit for half a cup of diced apples, add a dash of vanilla extract, and don’t forget to sprinkle in the cinnamon. This variation will give you a delicious apple pie flavor in your oatmeal.
  • Banana Bread Oats: For a twist on the classic banana bread, leave out the peanut butter and add in a dash of vanilla and almond extract. It’s a simple tweak, but it will give your oats a whole new flavor profile.
  • PB&J Overnight Oats: Missing your childhood favorite PB&J sandwich? Leave out the banana and add some pureed strawberries or strawberry compote to these peanut butter overnight oats. The combo of peanut butter and strawberries is a true classic!
  • Peaches & Cream: For a summery variation, replace the banana & berries with half a cup of diced peaches, add in a couple of tablespoons of coconut cream and a dash of maple syrup. It is a refreshing and fruity twist on the classic recipe, perfect for those warm summer mornings.
  • Pumpkin Pie Overnight Oats: You can also switch up the flavors for a delicious fall-inspired variation. Simply add a dash of pumpkin spice to your oats and replace the banana with pumpkin puree. This will give your oats a warm, comforting twist that’s perfect for cooler mornings.
  • Carrot Cake Overnight Oats: For a twist on a classic dessert, replace the bananas and berries with half a cup of shredded carrots. Add a dash of allspice, vanilla extract, and a teaspoon or two of raisins. Omit the peanut butter for this variation. You’ll get a breakfast that tastes like a treat but is still packed with nutrients!
  • Pina Colada Overnight Oats: Bring a tropical flair to your breakfast by replacing the banana and berries with half a cup of diced pineapple and a tablespoon of shredded coconut. Leave out the nut butter for this variation. This will give you a refreshing and fruity start to your day.
peanut butter overnight oats in a mason jar with strawberries and bananas

🍽 Serving Suggestions

This recipe for peanut butter banana overnight oats is great on its own, or pairs well with other breakfast recipes. Here are some of my top serving suggestions:

  • With A Smoothie: For a power-packed breakfast, serve these peanut banana overnight oats with a smoothie. Try a broccoli smoothie for an extra boost of nutrients or a mixed berry smoothie for a sweet start to your day. 
  • Alongside Protein: To increase the protein content of your breakfast, pair these oats with a side of scrambled eggs or a boiled egg. Keep things vegan with a silken tofu scramble.
  • With A Warm Beverage: A cup of hot coffee or tea pairs perfectly with these oats, making for a cozy and satisfying breakfast. I love them with this oatmilk honey latte!
  • With More Toppings: On mornings when you’re feeling like indulging a bit, consider adding some extra peanut butter and fresh banana slices to your oats before having them. The thick swirls of peanut butter will definitely satisfy your cravings. You can even add a dollop of vegan nutella!
Peanut butter banana overnight oats in a mason jar with strawberries.

🙌 Dietary Adaptations

This banana peanut butter overnight oats recipe is already a healthy breakfast option, but with some simple ingredient swaps, it can be adapted to suit a variety of dietary needs.

  • Vegan And Dairy-Free Option: To make this easy recipe vegan, substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt of your choice. Almond milk yogurt or soy milk yogurt would work well. Also, make sure you pick a non-dairy milk!
  • Gluten-Free Option: You can make this recipe gluten-free by using certified gluten-free oats. Always check the labels when purchasing oats, as some brands may process their oats in facilities that also process wheat, which could lead to cross-contamination.
  • Nut-Free Option: If you’re catering to a nut allergy, substitute the almond or peanut butter with a seed butter like sunflower seed butter. Also, go for nut-free milk such as oat milk or soy milk. Skip the nut toppings, and try out pumpkin seeds or more berries!

🫙 Storage Directions

  • Refrigerating: After enjoying these healthy overnight oats, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Alternatively, you can meal prep and store it for later. They can be kept for up to three days.
  • Freezing: Unfortunately, freezing these overnight oats is not recommended. The Greek yogurt used in the recipe does not freeze and defrost well, resulting in a less desirable consistency upon thawing.
  • Reheating: If you prefer a warm breakfast, these peanut butter and banana overnight oats can be reheated. Transfer the oats to a microwave-safe bowl and heat them for approximately one minute. If the oats appear too dry, feel free to add an extra splash of milk. Alternatively, you can warm them on the stove in a small pot.

❓Recipe FAQs

WHAT ARE OVERNIGHT OATS?

Overnight oats are a nutritious and convenient breakfast option. You make them by soaking raw rolled oats, or cooked steel cut oats in any type of milk or liquid overnight. They’re perfect for those busy mornings when you need a quick, ready-to-eat meal, and lately, it’s one of my favorite lunch box ideas.

DO I EAT OVERNIGHT OATS HOT OR COLD?

The best way to enjoy overnight oats is truly based on your personal preferences. Generally, they are eaten cold straight from the fridge. However, if you prefer your oats warm go for it! It will only take a minute or so for them to heat up!

CAN I SWAP STEEL CUT OATS FOR OLD-FASHIONED OATS?

Yes, you can! If you choose to use old-fashioned oats in this recipe, just add them raw. Since they are not as course as steel cut, they do not need to be pre-cooked! This could result in a mushy texture.

ARE STEEL CUT OATS HEALTHIER THAN ROLLED OR QUICK OATS?

Steel cut oats are closer to the original oat grain than rolled oats, but that doesn’t necessarily make them healthier. Both steel cut and rolled oats are nutritionally equivalent and will keep you full for a long time. However, instant oats are more processed and may not keep you full as long due to their higher glycemic index.

Peanut butter banana overnight oats in a mason jar with strawberries.

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📋 Recipe Card

🎥 Watch How to Make It

Peanut butter overnight oats in a mason jar with strawberries and bananas.
Print Recipe
5 from 16 votes

Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats

This peanut butter banana overnight oats recipe is a game-changer for your busy mornings. A perfect blend of wholesome ingredients like steel cut oats, Greek yogurt, and flax seeds make a nutritious breakfast that's ready when you are. The combination of creamy peanut butter and ripe banana is so delicious, and it will keep you full and satisfied!
Prep Time5 minutes
Chill8 hours
Total Time8 hours 5 minutes
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian
Servings: 1 serving
Calories: 470kcal
Author: Anjali Shah

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cooked steel cut oats ¼ cup uncooked
  • ¼ cup milk
  • ½ cup plain low fat Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp almond or peanut butter
  • 1 tbsp ground flax seed
  • ½-¾ cup sliced berries or your favorite fruit
  • 1 pinch sea salt
  • ¼ banana
  • 1 tbsp sliced almonds or walnuts
  • dash of cinnamon and nutmeg optional

Instructions

  • Cook the steel cut oats ahead of time (Tip: I cook steel cut oats in bulk and freeze them in 1 cup portions to use later!)
  • Combine the cooked oats, and the rest of the ingredients through the banana in a mason jar or tupperware. Stir until combined.
  • Put the container in the fridge and store overnight.
  • In the morning, add 1 tbsp sliced almonds or walnuts, cinnamon/nutmeg, stir and enjoy!

Notes

Recipe Variations and Substitutions
  • Make it Vegan: To make these overnight oats vegan, replace the milk with a plant-based milk, and replace the yogurt with a vegan yogurt (or omit the yogurt and add more of your favorite plant based milk)
  • Make it Gluten Free: Use gluten-free certified oats and you can turn this into a gluten-free banana overnight oats recipe!
  • Chocolate Peanut Butter Overnight Oats: Instead of banana, add 1-3 tsp of unsweetened cocoa powder and a dash of vanilla. Berries are optional!
  • Apple Pie Overnight Oats: Swap all the fruit for 1/2 cup diced apples, add a dash of vanilla extract, and don’t forget to add in the cinnamon!
  • Banana Bread Oats: Leave out the peanut butter and add in a dash of vanilla and almond extract.
  • PB&J: Leave out the banana and add some pureed strawberries or strawberry compote to these peanut butter overnight oats!
  • Carrot Cake: Replace the bananas & berries with 1/2 cup shredded carrots, add 1-2 tsp raisins, a dash of all spice and vanilla extract, and omit the peanut butter.
  • Pina Colada: Replace the banana and berries with 1/2 cup diced pineapple, 1 tablespoon of shredded coconut, and leave out the nut butter
  • Peaches & Cream: Replace the banana & berries with 1/2 cup diced peaches, add 1-2 tablespoons of coconut cream and a dash of maple syrup!
Top Tips For Making Overnight Oats
  • Be sure to pre-cook the steel-cut oats, or they won’t be the texture you are probably going for. They will puff up as they sit overnight but will be pretty crunchy by morning unless they are pre-cooked. 
  • Don’t add the toppings until right before serving. Otherwise, they won’t hold up and aren’t as appetizing after they have soaked all night. 
  • Follow the recipe closely when it comes to the liquid versus the oats. If you don’t add enough liquid, they can’t absorb the milk and yogurt properly and the consistency will be off.
  • Be sure to mix the ingredients completely before storing overnight so that all of the oats are immersed in the liquid.
  • You don’t have to eat these healthy overnight oats cold. You can transfer them to a microwave safe bowl and heat them in the microwave for 45-75 seconds, or transfer them to a pot and warm them on the stove. If your oats get too dry after heating, add more milk!
  • I don’t recommend freezing these peanut butter overnight oats. The yogurt doesn’t freeze well and defrost to be the same consistency it was before it was frozen!

Nutrition

Serving: 1jar | Calories: 470kcal | Carbohydrates: 55.5g | Protein: 27.2g | Fat: 18.9g | Saturated Fat: 3.3g | Cholesterol: 3mg | Sodium: 309.6mg | Potassium: 523.2mg | Fiber: 10.8g | Sugar: 18.7g

26 responses to “Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats”

  1. I love overnight oats and this combo is my favorite – I make it all the time and the kids love them too! A winning recipe for sure!5 stars

  2. The combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet banana is heaven in a bowl. It’s the perfect way to start my day, and I love how easy it is to prepare.5 stars

  3. These overnight oats are PERFECT for an easy breakfast. It was so nice to be able to grab it out of the fridge and have a nutritious breakfast ready to go. So delicious!5 stars

  4. Hi Anjali,
    If I were to use old fashioned oats for this recipe, what quantity should I be using? Please advise. Also, is this recipe suitable for a 14 months old toddler?5 stars

    • Hi Pinky! You can use old fashioned oats — I’d recommend trying 1/2 cup uncooked (and don’t pre-cook them before adding them to the other ingredients in this recipe the way you would steel cut oats). And yes! You can give this to a toddler (assuming you have already checked to make sure your toddler doesn’t have any nut allergies). The only modification I’d make for a toddler is to dice up the fruit very small, and omit the whole nuts. Hope that helps!

  5. We’ve been going on early morning hikes and having a jar of these in the fridge to grab and go with is perfect! They taste like dessert, but are so good for you!5 stars

  6. I haven’t had steel cut oatmeal since I was a kid and loved this recipe. It has a hint of banana and a hint of peanut butter in every bite. I enjoyed eating it cold…and such a treat compared to the boring container of yogurt + banana I usually grab on my way out the door. I was thrilled by the large serving size, too. I’m learning that you don’t have to sacrifice portion when the ingredients are all so good for you!5 stars

    • That’s so awesome Beth! I’m so glad you liked this recipe – it’s one of my favorite grab-and-go meals too!

  7. As a “certified” picky eater (lol), your blog jumped out, so I popped over. Its 6am and breakfast is on my mind. Anyway.. saw this recipe and its one that appeals. Ive read about the health benefits of oats, but never really jumped to using them .. I know athletes eat them a fair bit, so Im going to add this one to my list of to-do recipes.. thank you :)( (I will pin this to my pinterest account too)

    Shaun5 stars

    • Thanks so much Shaun! It’s great to meet you! I hope you loved this recipe – it’s definitely a favorite in our family!

  8. Overnight oats, in my experience, are not eaten cold. They are soaked overnight to remove lectins (look at Weston Price/Nourishing Traditions). Lectins disrupt your digestive process and contribute to leaky gut because your gut doesn’t realize they aren’t simple sugars. This prompts the cells in your gut to pass the lectins through your intestinal wall into your bloodstream which causes inflammation and can provoke your body into an autoimmune response. Many people soak, sprout or ferment their grains because of the health value.5 stars

    • Hi Kate! Overnight oats can be eaten cold or warm! I know lots of people who eat them cold – similar to Muesli. But you’re right that soaking legumes and grains can help improve their digestibility too – which is another benefit of overnight oats! 🙂

  9. This sounds delicious, it’s also on my list of must-try recipes. Buying and cooking healthy staples in bulk make it easier to choose the right foods, too.5 stars

    • Thanks so much! I’m sure you’ll love this recipe! And I totally agree — buying and cooking in bulk means you’ll always have something healthy on-hand to eat!

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