These kefir overnight oats are thick, creamy and super easy to make (well which overnight oats recipe isn't really?). The basic recipe consists of only 3 simple ingredients: rolled oats, chia seeds and kefir!
Overnight oats have been a game changer for me when it comes to busy mornings (my favorite ones are these Overnight Oats made with Water or Frozen Fruit Overnight Oats).
I love that you can make them ahead of time. Prepare a few jars on Sunday night, and voila! You've got a week's worth of breakfasts that require zero morning fuss.
Paired with a creamy cup of Peanut Butter Coffee or this Cocoa Powder Hot Chocolate, these kefir overnight oats make a great breakfast that's ready in no time.
Kefir in overnight oats?
Yes, please! Making overnight oats with kefir is not just about the probiotics, it's also about that texture game.
Kefir is thicker than regular milk but not as thick as yogurt. Even though you can make creamy Overnight Oats without Yogurt, you'll need something else to create that thick and velvety texture. That's when kefir comes into play!
Ingredients & substitution notes
- Rolled oats: I used large flaked oats which are my favorite type of oats to use in overnight oat recipes.
- Chia seeds: They help to create the perfect texture by absorbing liquid and expanding. This will result in a delightful pudding-like consistency in your overnight oats.
- Kefir: I used plain kefir without an sweeteners added. I opted for store-bought kefir and you can usually find kefir in larger grocery stores.
- Sweetener: The sweetener is used to counteract the slightly tart taste of the kefir. I like using pure maple syrup just because I love the taste it adds. Feel free to use any sweetener of choice such as raw honey or agave syrup.
See recipe card for quantities.
Step-by-step: How to make kefir overnight oats
Step 1: Add all of the ingredients to a mason jar and whisk until well combined. Let sit for 10 minutes, then stir again.
Step 2: Close with a lid and put in the fridge overnight (or for at least 3 hours).
Katie's expert tips
- Plain Kefir: I recommend using plain, unsweetened and unflavored kefir. That way you can sweeten to personal taste.
- Stir twice: It's my go-to trick when making overnight oats! This will ensure that the chia seeds are well mixed with the oats.
- Meal prep: I recommend preparing a big batch and store them in the fridge to save time in the morning.
- Chill Factor: Optimal texture is achieved by letting your overnight oats chill in the fridge for at least 3 hours- preferably overnight.
- Seal the Deal: I recommend using airtight containers or mason jars to seal in freshness and prevent any unwanted fridge odors from infiltrating your kefir oats.
- Play with Ratios: Experiment with liquid-to-oats ratios to find your preferred texture. If they are too thick for your liking the next morning, simply add a splash of kefir or milk of your choice.
- Toppings: I highly recommend adding toppings to add layers of flavor and texture.
Frequently asked questions
Kefir is a fermented dairy beverage. This fermentation gives it its slightly tangy taste -imagine a yogurt-like creaminess but with a gentle zing. You can also easily make whole milk kefir at home with the help of kefir grains and cow's milk.
Water kefir is not the same as regular milk kefir and I don't recommend it for making overnight oats.
Yes, there are also kefir drinks made from almond milk or coconut milk and they can be used if you don't consume any dairy products.
More overnight oat recipes
- Overnight oats with Coconut Milk
- Protein Overnight Oats without Protein Powder
- Almond Milk Overnight Oats
- High Protein Overnight Oats
📖 Recipe
Kefir Overnight Oats
Ingredients
- ½ cup (40 g) rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 cup (160 g) plain, unsweetened kefir
- 1-2 tablespoon (1 tablespoon) maple syrup
- tiny pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions
- Combine all the ingredients in a jar or airtight container.½ cup rolled oats, 1 tablespoon chia seeds, 1 cup plain, unsweetened kefir, 1-2 tablespoon maple syrup, tiny pinch of salt (optional)
- Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined. Let sit for 10 minutes, then stir again.
- Seal the jar or container and place it in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight.
- In the morning, give the oats a good stir. You might notice a thicker, pudding-like consistency- feel free to add more kefir or milk of choice for a thinner consistency.
- Top your oats with your favorite toppings (I love fresh berries, nuts and a little honey)
Video
Notes
- Consistency: If the oats are too thick for your liking the next morning, simply add a splash of kefir or milk of your choice.
- Storage: They will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Topping ideas: My favorite toppings are fresh fruits such as, my breakfast fruit salad, nuts, this homemade caramel sauce, roasted almond butter, peanut butter or a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
- Gluten-free: opt for certified gluten-free oats to make this a gluten-free recipe.
- Nutritional values calculated without toppings.
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