Peanut Butter and Jelly Overnight Oats are a tasty spin on the classic sandwich, turned into a quick and easy breakfast. The creamy peanut butter blends perfectly with the sweet, fruity jelly, all mixed into soft, overnight-soaked oats for a smooth and satisfying texture. It’s a no-fuss way to start the day with familiar flavors that everyone loves.
I love making these the night before because in the morning, all I have to do is grab the jar from the fridge and enjoy. It feels like a little breakfast treat, but it’s healthy and filling too. One of my favorite tips is to swirl in a spoonful of jelly right before eating to keep that fresh fruit flavor popping through.
Sometimes I make these when I’m in a hurry or want to prep something simple for busy mornings. They’re great to take on the go or enjoy at home with a hot cup of coffee. Peanut Butter and Jelly Overnight Oats always remind me of those carefree childhood lunches but in a grown-up, breakfast-friendly way.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled oats: These oats soak up the milk and become soft overnight. Use old-fashioned rolled oats—not instant or steel-cut—for the best texture. If you want a gluten-free option, look for certified gluten-free oats.
Milk: Dairy milk works well, but plant-based milks like almond, oat, or soy are great too. They add their own subtle flavor and keep the recipe dairy-free if needed.
Peanut butter: Creamy peanut butter blends smoothly, but chunky adds nice texture. You can swap for almond butter or sunflower seed butter if you have allergies or prefer another nut flavor.
Jam or jelly: Classic fruit flavors like raspberry or strawberry work best. You can use sugar-free or homemade jam too, or fresh fruit for a fresher taste. Mixing fresh raspberries into the jam before layering adds a lovely texture.
Chia seeds: They thicken the oats and add fiber and omega-3s. If you don’t have chia seeds, flaxseeds or hemp seeds can work but they won’t thicken as much.
How Do I Get the Best Texture in My Overnight Oats?
Getting the texture just right means the oats are soft but not mushy, and the layers stay nice and separate.
- Use the right kind of oats: rolled oats absorb liquid well and hold their shape.
- Mix the oats and chia seeds with milk thoroughly before refrigerating to avoid clumps.
- Refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to let everything soften and thicken properly.
- Stir the oat mixture gently in the morning before adding your peanut butter and jam layers to keep layers distinct.
- If your peanut butter is thick, warming it a little makes it easier to spread smoothly on top.
Following these tips gives you creamy oats with clear layers of peanut butter and jelly, making every spoonful enjoyable!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Jar or container with a lid – I like to use a jar because it’s easy to shake and store your oats in the fridge.
- Mixing bowl – useful if you prefer mixing ingredients separately before transferring to the jar.
- Measuring spoons and cups – for accuracy, so your oats turn out just right.
- Spoon – to stir, layer, and enjoy your oats with ease.
- Optional small spatula – helpful for spreading peanut butter smoothly on top.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Replace peanut butter with almond or sunflower seed butter for a different nutty flavor.
- Use different fruit preserves like blueberry or peach for a new sweet twist.
- Add a handful of chopped nuts or coconut flakes on top for extra texture.
- Stir in some mini chocolate chips or cacao nibs before refrigerating for a hint of chocolate.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 2 tbsp chia seeds
- 2 tbsp peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
- 1/3 cup mixed berry jam or jelly (raspberry or strawberry)
- 1/4 cup fresh raspberries (optional, for topping)
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- Chia seeds for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes just about 10 minutes to prepare, but you’ll need to let it chill in the fridge overnight (around 6-8 hours). That gives the oats and chia seeds time to soak up all the flavors and get that creamy, smooth texture we love.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a bowl or jar, combine the rolled oats, milk, chia seeds, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together well. If you want it a bit sweeter, add honey or maple syrup now and mix again.
2. Let It Chill:
Cover your mixture with a lid or plastic wrap, then pop it in the fridge overnight or for at least 6 hours. This gives the oats and chia seeds plenty of time to soak up the milk and thicken up.
3. Add Your Peanut Butter and Jelly Layers:
The next day, gently stir the oats to even out the texture. In a small bowl, mix your jam or jelly with fresh raspberries if you want some chunky fruit bits. Layer the oats at the bottom of your serving jar or bowl, then spoon the berry jam mixture on top. Add a generous layer of peanut butter over the jam. If your peanut butter is thick, warming it slightly makes spreading easier.
4. Garnish and Serve:
Top with a few fresh raspberries and a sprinkle of chia seeds for a little extra crunch and nutrition. Enjoy your delicious and healthy Peanut Butter and Jelly Overnight Oats right away, or keep them in the fridge until you’re ready.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Jar or container with a lid (great for mixing and storing your oats)
- Mixing bowl (if you prefer to mix ingredients before transferring)
- Measuring cups and spoons (for accurate ingredient amounts)
- Spoon or spatula (to mix, layer, and enjoy your oats)
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try almond butter or sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter for a new nutty flavor.
- Swap out the jam for other fruit preserves like blueberry or peach for variety.
- Add chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or mini chocolate chips on top for extra texture and fun.
- Stir in cacao nibs or a dash of cinnamon before refrigerating for a flavor twist.
Can I Use Frozen Berries or Jam in This Recipe?
Yes! If using frozen berries, thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mixing with the jam to keep your oats from becoming too watery. Frozen jam works fine too—just give it a good stir before layering.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan or Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Use plant-based milk such as almond, oat, or soy milk and make sure your peanut butter and jam don’t contain any animal products. This recipe is naturally easy to adapt for vegan and dairy-free diets.
How Long Can I Store Peanut Butter and Jelly Overnight Oats?
You can keep them refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 3 days. For best texture and flavor, eat within 24-48 hours. If the oats thicken too much, stir in a splash of milk before serving.
Can I Prepare This Without Chia Seeds?
Yes, you can omit chia seeds, but they help thicken the oats and add fiber and nutrition. Without chia seeds, your overnight oats may be a bit thinner and less gel-like, but still tasty and filling.
