Peanut Butter and Jelly Overnight Oats are a fun and easy twist on a classic childhood favorite, packed with creamy oats, rich peanut butter, and sweet, fruity jelly. This breakfast comes together the night before, making your mornings smooth and stress-free. It’s a chilly, satisfying mix that feels just like a peanut butter and jelly sandwich but in a cozy, spoonable form.
I love how simple this recipe is—you just layer or mix your ingredients and pop them in the fridge. In the morning, you’ve got a ready-to-go meal that tastes fresh and bright with every bite. I usually like to swirl a bit more jelly on top just before eating for that extra touch of sweetness and a fun contrast with the peanut butter. It feels like a little treat before the day even starts.
This oats recipe is perfect for busy mornings or when I want something filling that doesn’t weigh me down. It’s great to pack for work or enjoy at home with a cup of coffee. Plus, it’s easy to adapt—switch out the jelly for your favorite fruit spread or toss in some fresh berries to keep things exciting. It’s a simple recipe that always brings a smile.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These give a nice chewy texture once soaked overnight. If you want a quicker option, use instant oats, but the texture will be softer and less hearty.
Milk: Dairy milk adds creaminess, but almond, oat, or soy milk all work well for a plant-based version. Choose unsweetened to control sugar levels.
Chia Seeds: They thicken the oats beautifully and add fiber. If you don’t have chia, ground flaxseeds make a good substitute with a slightly nuttier flavor.
Fruit Jelly or Jam: Classic strawberry or raspberry bring bright fruity sweetness. You can swap for any favorite jam or fresh berries for a fresher twist.
Peanut Butter: I love creamy peanut butter here for smoothness, but crunchy adds great texture. Almond or cashew butter work well too if you prefer or need a nut alternative.
How Do I Make Sure My Overnight Oats Don’t Turn Out Mushy?
Getting the perfect texture means balancing liquid and oats—and giving them enough time to soak but not too long.
- Use rolled oats, not quick oats—they hold shape better overnight.
- Stick to the 1:1 ratio of oats to milk for a creamy but not soggy consistency.
- Add chia seeds to absorb some extra moisture and thicken things up.
- Mix the oats well before refrigerating to evenly distribute the liquid.
- Overnight is best; longer than 24 hours can make it too soft.
Enjoy your creamy yet firm peanut butter and jelly oats with distinct layers and flavors!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 1 large mason jar or airtight container – I like this because it keeps everything fresh and makes mixing easy.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helps you get just the right amount of each ingredient.
- Small spoon or butter knife – great for spreading the peanut butter and jelly evenly on top.
- Optional: whisk or fork – handy for mixing the oats thoroughly before refrigerating.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap almond or cashew butter for peanut butter for different nutty flavors.
- Mix in sliced strawberries, bananas, or blueberries to add fresh fruit along with or instead of jelly.
- Stir in a dash of cinnamon or vanilla extract for extra warmth and aroma.
- Top with chopped nuts or granola in the morning for crunch and texture.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 2 tablespoons plain or vanilla yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/4 cup fruit jelly or jam (strawberry or raspberry works well)
- 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
- A pinch of salt
- Optional: a few lavender petals or seeds for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prep takes just about 5 minutes! Then refrigerate overnight, or at least 6 hours, so the oats and chia seeds soak up all the liquid and get soft. Perfect for a quick morning meal with no extra hassle.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a mason jar or airtight container, stir together the rolled oats, milk, yogurt (if using), chia seeds, maple syrup or honey, and a pinch of salt. Make sure everything is well combined.
2. Refrigerate to Soften:
Seal the jar or container and place it in the fridge overnight, or for at least 6 hours. This helps the oats and chia seeds absorb the liquid and become soft and creamy.
3. Add Jelly and Peanut Butter:
In the morning, stir the oats gently. If it feels too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up. Next, spread or dollop the fruit jelly or jam over the top, followed by a generous spoonful of creamy peanut butter.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Optionally, sprinkle a few lavender petals or seeds on top for a lovely touch. Grab a spoon and enjoy your delicious, nostalgic peanut butter and jelly overnight oats!
Can I Use Frozen Fruit Instead of Jelly?
Yes! Just thaw the frozen fruit overnight in the fridge before adding it to your oats. You can mash it slightly or mix it in whole for a fresh, fruity twist.
Can I Prepare More Than One Serving at a Time?
Absolutely! This recipe scales up easily. Just multiply the ingredients and store each serving in separate jars for convenient grab-and-go breakfasts throughout the week.
How Long Will Overnight Oats Last in the Fridge?
They typically stay fresh for up to 4–5 days when stored in an airtight container. Give them a good stir before eating, and add a splash of milk if they’ve thickened too much.
Can I Substitute Peanut Butter With Another Nut or Seed Butter?
Definitely! Almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter all work well and offer different flavors. Just use the same amount as peanut butter called for in the recipe.