Thank you for being here! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the hunt for wholesome, quick breakfasts that don’t sacrifice flavor—and today’s recipe hits the mark perfectly. These Brown Sugar Overnight Oats are not only rich in cozy, comforting flavor (hello banana and cinnamon!), but they’re also made without yogurt, which is a total win if you’re out or simply not a yogurt fan.
Before we dig in, I’d love for you to subscribe to my email list so I can send you recipes like this one straight to your inbox. Easy, nourishing, and always delicious—that’s the goal here, and I’d love to cook together more often!
What Are Brown Sugar Overnight Oats?
Let’s talk about what makes this breakfast so special. Brown sugar overnight oats are a no-cook, prep-ahead breakfast made with rolled oats that soften overnight in the fridge. The oats soak up all the liquid—plus the mashed bananas, cinnamon, and brown sugar—for a creamy, naturally sweet flavor that’s downright irresistible.
And the best part? This recipe skips the yogurt entirely and uses mashed ripe bananas to add creaminess and body. It’s ideal for those avoiding dairy or anyone who just doesn’t keep yogurt on hand.
Why You’ll Fall in Love With This Recipe
-
No yogurt needed! Creamy and luscious thanks to mashed bananas.
-
Perfect for busy mornings. Just mix, chill, and grab from the fridge!
-
Naturally sweet and cozy. Brown sugar and cinnamon make it feel like dessert for breakfast.
-
Meal-prep friendly. One batch makes four servings, so your mornings are covered.
What Does It Taste Like?
These brown sugar overnight oats are like a warm hug in a bowl—even when they’re served cold! The ripe bananas lend natural sweetness, while brown sugar and a pinch of cinnamon add richness and warmth. The oats are creamy, soft, and just slightly chewy, giving that perfect bite without being mushy. Trust me, it’s anything but boring!!
Health Benefits of Brown Sugar Overnight Oats
This recipe isn’t just easy on your schedule—it’s also packed with good-for-you ingredients:
-
Oats: Full of fiber and whole grains to keep you full.
-
Chia seeds: Omega-3s, fiber, and a protein boost.
-
Bananas: Potassium-rich and naturally sweet.
-
Milk (dairy or plant-based): Adds creaminess and calcium.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
2 cups rolled oats
-
4 tablespoons chia seeds
-
3–4 tablespoons brown sugar (use more or less based on your sweetness preference)
-
1 cup mashed bananas (about 2 very ripe bananas)
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
Pinch of salt
-
¼ teaspoon cinnamon (or more if you love it like I do!)
-
2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy both work beautifully)
Tools You’ll Need
-
Large mixing bowl
-
Measuring cups and spoons
-
Spoon or whisk for mixing
-
Airtight container or jars for storing in the fridge
Optional Add-Ins and Ingredient Swaps
I promised you versatile, and here’s proof!
-
No chia seeds? Try ground flaxseed instead.
-
Want extra protein? Stir in a scoop of your favorite protein powder or a spoonful of peanut butter.
-
Looking for more texture? Add chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or even mini chocolate chips.
-
Need it dairy-free? Almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk all work great here.
-
No brown sugar? Maple syrup or coconut sugar are lovely substitutes.
How to Make Brown Sugar Overnight Oats
Step-by-Step Instructions
-
Mix it all together:
In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, chia seeds, brown sugar, mashed bananas, vanilla extract, salt, cinnamon, and milk. Stir until everything is evenly combined. -
Chill time:
Cover with a lid or plastic wrap, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours—or ideally overnight. -
Serve and enjoy:
Give it a stir in the morning, then top with fresh banana slices, chopped nuts, a drizzle of nut butter, or even a dollop of whipped cream if you’re feeling fancy.
What to Serve with These Overnight Oats
While this recipe is super satisfying on its own, here are a few ideas to round out your breakfast:
-
A hot cup of coffee or chai
-
A small green smoothie for added veggies
-
A boiled egg or handful of almonds for a protein boost
Tips for the Best Overnight Oats
-
Use ripe bananas: The riper, the better! They’re naturally sweeter and mash more easily.
-
Adjust the sweetness: Start with 3 tablespoons of brown sugar and taste after chilling—you can always add more.
-
Make it ahead: These oats keep well for up to 5 days in the fridge, so prep on Sunday and enjoy all week.
-
Single-serve jars: Portion the oats into jars for grab-and-go breakfasts.
How to Store Overnight Oats
Store the oats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Stir before serving, and add any toppings just before eating to keep them fresh and crunchy.
FAQs About Brown Sugar Overnight Oats
Can I warm up overnight oats?
Yes! While they’re typically enjoyed cold straight from the fridge, you can warm your overnight oats in the microwave for 30–60 seconds if you’re craving a cozy bowl.
Can overnight oats be frozen?
Technically yes, but freezing can affect the texture. They’re best eaten fresh from the fridge within 4–5 days for the creamiest consistency.
Do I have to use chia seeds?
Nope! Chia seeds help thicken the oats and add fiber, but you can leave them out or swap with ground flaxseed if needed.
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
Yes, but just know they’ll turn out softer and less chewy. Rolled oats give a heartier texture that holds up better overnight.
Can I skip the banana?
Banana adds natural sweetness and creaminess, but if you’re not a fan, you can replace it with applesauce or canned pumpkin for a similar texture.
What kind of milk works best?
Any milk works! Use dairy, almond, oat, soy, or even coconut milk depending on your flavor and dietary preferences.
Why add a pinch of salt?
A little salt helps balance the sweetness and brings out the cozy brown sugar and cinnamon flavors.
Can I use maple syrup instead of brown sugar?
Absolutely! Maple syrup works great as a natural sweetener—start with 2–3 tablespoons and adjust to taste.
How do I make this higher in protein?
Easy! Add a scoop of protein powder, a spoonful of Greek yogurt (if you’re not avoiding dairy), or mix in peanut butter or almond butter.
Why You’ll Come Back to This Recipe Again and Again
This recipe is the definition of low effort, high reward. It’s creamy, naturally sweet, easy to make, and totally customizable. And for my friends who don’t usually stock yogurt—this one’s made for you! It’s hearty, nourishing, and seriously delicious.
If you’re craving more cozy breakfast ideas, here are a few of my favorites that you’ll absolutely love:
-
Overnight Blueberry Baked Oatmeal – juicy berries and oats baked to perfection!
-
Cranberry Orange Greek Yogurt Granola Bars – a refreshing, protein-packed snack bar!
-
Baked German Pancake Recipe – puffs up like magic and tastes like brunch heaven!
I Want to See Your Creations!
Did you try this Brown Sugar Overnight Oats recipe? I’d love to see how it turned out for you!
Tag me in your breakfast photos on Pinterest over at Recipes by Sylvia! Nothing brings me more joy than seeing your beautiful creations come to life.
Or leave a review below and share what toppings you used—I’m always inspired by your twists!
A breakfast that’s good for your soul and your body? Count me in!
Print
Brown Sugar Overnight Oats (No Yogurt!)
- Total Time: 0 minutes (no-cook!)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Brown Sugar Overnight Oats are the ultimate make-ahead breakfast—rich, creamy, and naturally sweet thanks to ripe bananas and warm brown sugar. Made without yogurt, they’re perfect for dairy-free mornings or anyone who loves a cozy, cinnamon-spiced start to their day. Just mix, chill, and wake up to something delicious!
Ingredients
-
2 cups rolled oats
-
4 tablespoons chia seeds
-
3–4 tablespoons brown sugar (adjust to taste)
-
1 cup mashed banana (about 2 ripe bananas)
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
1 pinch salt
-
¼ teaspoon cinnamon (or more to taste)
-
2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
Instructions
-
In a large bowl, combine the oats, chia seeds, brown sugar, mashed banana, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon.
-
Pour in the milk and stir well until everything is evenly mixed.
-
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
-
When ready to eat, give it a stir and serve with your favorite toppings like sliced bananas, nuts, or nut butter. Enjoy!
Notes
-
You can use light, dark, or regular brown sugar. I tested this version using dark brown sugar for that extra rich molasses flavor.
-
Want to switch things up? Add a scoop of protein powder, a spoonful of nut butter, or sprinkle in some mini chocolate chips!
-
This recipe is great for meal prep. Store in jars or containers for grab-and-go breakfasts all week.
-
If the oats are thicker than you like in the morning, just stir in a splash more milk.
- Equipment
Large mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Spoon or whisk
Plastic wrap or container with lid
Jars or containers for storage (optional)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours chill time
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 372 kcal
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 64 mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0.02 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: brown sugar overnight oats, overnight oats without yogurt, banana oats no yogurt, healthy breakfast prep