Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats Recipe
If you’re looking for a breakfast that’s not only quick but also delicious and packed with flavor, you’re in for a treat. This Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats Recipe is my go-to when I want something creamy, nutty, and just a little sweet without any fuss. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll see why I keep making it—it’s like waking up to a little jar of comfort that fuels your day perfectly.
Why This Recipe Works
- Perfect Flavor Combo: The rich peanut butter blends beautifully with sweet banana and warm cinnamon, creating a comforting, balanced taste.
- Hands-Off Prep: You mix it all in one jar, refrigerate overnight, and wake up to breakfast ready to go—no cooking required!
- Customizable Texture: Adjust the milk quantity to get it as thick or as creamy as you like easily.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Makes an excellent grab-and-go option with a shelf life of up to 5 days.
Ingredients & Why They Work
This Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats Recipe features simple pantry staples that just click together. Each ingredient plays a role—whether it’s texture, taste, or nutrition—making your mornings feel effortless and tasty.

- Rolled oats: I recommend old-fashioned rolled oats for a nice chewy texture, but quick oats work if you’re in a hurry.
- Whole flax seeds: They add a subtle nuttiness and boost your fiber and omega-3 intake, but you can skip them if they’re not handy.
- Cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth, complementing the peanut butter and banana perfectly.
- Milk: I usually use whichever milk I have on hand—dairy or plant-based works great and helps soften the oats overnight.
- Pure maple syrup: Just a touch for natural sweetness; you can swap with honey if preferred.
- Peanut butter: This is the star! Creamy or chunky, it adds rich flavor and keeps you full longer.
- Banana: Fresh banana slices on top provide natural sweetness and a fresh touch just before eating.
Tweak to Your Taste
One of the best parts about this Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats Recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. I like to adjust it based on what’s in my pantry or how I’m feeling that morning—you should too!
- Add a crunch: Sprinkling some chopped nuts or granola on top makes a world of difference for texture—my personal favorite is salted roasted peanuts.
- Go vegan or dairy-free: Swap the milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk, and use maple syrup to keep it sweet and wholesome.
- Boost protein: Mixing in a scoop of vanilla protein powder or Greek yogurt amps up the nutrition for busy mornings.
- Seasonal touch: Swap bananas for sliced berries or chopped apples during different seasons for a fresh twist.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Start by combining the rolled oats, flax seeds (if using), and cinnamon in a jar or bowl. I love using a mason jar because it’s super convenient for storage and eating straight out of. Stir these dry ingredients first to distribute the cinnamon evenly—you don’t want a cinnamon hotspot in every bite!
Step 2: Add Milk and Sweetener
Pour in your milk choice and the maple syrup right over the oats and mix everything well. This step is key because you want the oats to soak up all that delicious flavor overnight. If you like a thinner consistency, feel free to add a bit more milk—up to a full cup works great.
Step 3: Stir in the Peanut Butter
Now, drop in your peanut butter. I usually swirl it around just a little bit—it’s nice to have pockets of peanut butter in the oats. If you want it fully incorporated, give it a good stir. Either way works depending on how you like your bites—creamy or with little nuggets of peanut butter goodness.
Step 4: Refrigerate Overnight
Cover your jar or bowl tightly and pop it in the fridge for at least 6 hours. Overnight is ideal, but if you’re short on time, 4 hours can work too. This resting time softens the oats and melds all the flavors together beautifully.
Step 5: Top and Enjoy
When morning rolls around, take off the lid and top with fresh banana slices. I love adding a little extra drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of cinnamon on top—it feels like a mini celebration every time. Grab a spoon, and you’re ready to start your day with a smile!
Pro Tips for Making Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats Recipe
- Choose the Right Oats: I’ve found old-fashioned rolled oats give the best texture; steel-cut oats can be a bit tough unless soaked longer.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: If mixing it fully isn’t your thing, add peanut butter just before serving for an extra creamy hit.
- Don’t Add Banana Too Early: Adding banana slices just before eating keeps them fresh and prevents browning.
- Adjust Sweetness to Preference: Start with less maple syrup—you can always add more at the end if you crave extra sweetness!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats Recipe

Garnishes
I’m pretty simple when it comes to garnishes — a handful of sliced banana on top and sometimes a sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a few chopped peanuts for crunch. But I won’t lie, chocolate chips or a dollop of Greek yogurt can really take things to the next level for an indulgent morning pick-me-up.
Side Dishes
This peanut butter banana bowl is quite satisfying on its own, but if I’m feeling extra hungry, I pair it with a boiled egg or some fresh fruit on the side—like berries or an orange. It keeps things balanced and filling.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch or special occasion, I love serving this overnight oats recipe in small glass jars layered with a peanut butter drizzle and banana slices arranged on top—it looks so pretty and invites everyone to dig in. Adding a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes has also become one of my favorite twists!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I usually make a few jars at once to save time during the week. When tightly covered and kept in the fridge, these overnight oats stay fresh and tasty for up to 5 days. Just give them a quick stir before eating for an even texture.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t my go-to because oats tend to get a bit watery when thawed, but if you want to try, freeze in individual portions without the banana topping. Thaw in the fridge overnight and add fresh banana in the morning for the best taste.
Reheating
If you prefer your oats warm, just microwave the overnight oats in a bowl for 30-45 seconds, then stir and add your banana slices and any extra toppings. I find this keeps the creamy texture intact without drying out the oats.
FAQs
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Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats for this Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats Recipe?
Yes! Quick oats will work and soften faster, making the oats creamier overnight. Just keep in mind the texture will be less chewy compared to rolled oats.
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Is it okay to add the banana before refrigerating the oats?
It’s best to add banana slices just before eating. Adding the banana ahead of time can cause browning and make the texture mushy, so fresh banana for the win!
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Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Use your favorite plant-based milk and pure maple syrup in place of dairy milk and honey, and you’re all set for a vegan-friendly breakfast.
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How long can I store Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats in the fridge?
Stored in a sealed container, your overnight oats will stay fresh up to 5 days, making this recipe great for meal prepping your breakfasts for the week.
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Can I add protein powder to this recipe?
Yes! Stir in your preferred protein powder when mixing the oats and milk for an easy way to boost the protein content and keep you fuller longer.
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats Recipe has become one of my favorite no-fail breakfasts because it’s forgiving, flexible, and just downright delicious. It gives me the energy I need to tackle the day without any early morning rush. Give it a try—I have a feeling you’ll love waking up to this jar of creamy, peanut buttery goodness as much as I do. Plus, breakfast prep is done the night before, which is a total game changer!
Print
Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and nutritious Peanut Butter and Banana Overnight Oats recipe that combines creamy peanut butter, ripe banana, and warm spices for a delicious and convenient breakfast prepared the night before.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1 teaspoon whole flax seeds (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter
- 1/2 banana (sliced, added before serving)
Instructions
- Mix dry ingredients: In a mason jar or bowl, combine the rolled oats, whole flax seeds, and cinnamon, stirring to blend evenly.
- Add liquids: Pour in the milk and maple syrup, then stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Add peanut butter: Drop in the peanut butter and mix it gently, just enough to incorporate it without fully blending for a creamy texture.
- Refrigerate: Cover the jar with a lid or bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow the oats to soak and soften.
- Serve: When ready to eat, remove the cover and top the oats with the sliced banana. Optionally, drizzle extra maple syrup and sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on top for added flavor.
Notes
- Use old-fashioned rolled oats for best texture; quick oats or steel-cut oats can be used but will vary in texture.
- Adjust the milk quantity up to 1 cup for thinner oats consistency.
- Store tightly covered in the refrigerator up to 5 days—ideal for meal prepping.
- Nutritional values are estimated and may vary depending on ingredients.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg


