Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Overnight oats in jar refrigerated for safe storage

Do Overnight Oats Need to Be Refrigerated? (Full Guide to Safe Storage & Nutrition)


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Samuel D.
  • Total Time: 5 min (including soaking)
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x

Description

These nutrient-boosted overnight oats use a traditional soaking method combined with safe refrigeration for a gut-friendly, nourishing breakfast—perfect for meal prep and customizable to your diet.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup organic rolled oats (gluten-free preferred)
  • 1 cup filtered water or milk of choice (almond, coconut, dairy)
  • 2 tablespoons liquid whey (or 1.5 tsp apple cider vinegar/lemon juice)
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ½ banana, sliced
  • ¼ cup crushed pecans or walnuts
  • 2 tablespoons grass-fed butter, coconut oil, or cream
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Optional: 1 tsp maple syrup or raw honey (omit for low-sugar option)

Instructions

  1. In a glass bowl or jar, combine oats, filtered water (or milk), and liquid whey or acid. Stir gently.
  2. Add sea salt. Cover loosely with a lid or cloth.
  3. Leave to soak at room temperature for 12–24 hours (only if you plan to cook them afterward).
  4. If eating raw, place the jar in the refrigerator immediately and soak for at least 8 hours overnight.
  5. Optional step: Rinse soaked oats if you prefer a lighter flavor.
  6. Transfer soaked oats to a pot with ½ cup water. Bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 5–10 minutes.
  7. Portion into bowls or jars. Add banana slices, crushed pecans, butter or coconut cream, and cinnamon.
  8. Sweeten if desired. Serve immediately or store refrigerated for up to 5 days.

Notes

For dairy-free: Use almond milk and lemon juice or apple cider vinegar instead of whey. For added protein: Mix in protein powder before refrigerating. Always refrigerate immediately unless following the traditional soak + cook method.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: Optional (5–10 minutes if desired)
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: No-Cook / Simmered
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 340
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg