Can You Heat Up Overnight Oats, Or Do You Eat Them Cold? (2024)

The short answer is that there's no best way to eat oats. Overnight oats are, by definition, served cold in the morning.

Overnight oats are oats that are soaked in a liquid overnight so that the oats can absorb the liquid - no heating up necessary. The liquid can really be anything. It can be milk, a milk-alternative like almond or soy, or water. Although, if you are going for taste, try to avoid using water.

However, if you find that you don't enjoy them cold, you can definitely let it prepare in the fridge overnight, then heat it up in the microwave in the morning. Heating up the oats in the microwave won't ruin them - this is a great way to prepare oatmeal with a softer consistency!

However, before tossing them in the microwave wedefinitelyrecommend trying them cold first! By adding extras like chia seeds, fruit, and protein when preparing it the night before, you'll have a nutritious, delicious breakfast waiting for you when you wake up - no microwave required.

If you don't have the time to measure and prepare the ingredients the night before, give Oats Overnight a try and join the hundreds of thousands of people already taking charge of their morning routine!

Can You Heat Up Overnight Oats, Or Do You Eat Them Cold? (2024)

FAQs

Can You Heat Up Overnight Oats, Or Do You Eat Them Cold? ›

Typically, overnight oats are eaten cold, which is perfect for the hotter months. Overnight oatmeal is no-cook and doesn't need to be heated, but you may find yourself wanting a warm breakfast instead. It makes it super convenient to heat overnight oats to avoid being rushed in the mornings.

Do you heat overnight oats or eat them cold? ›

While overnight oats are usually enjoyed as a cold breakfast, thankfully, there is no reason you can't enjoy your overnight oats warm. Simply microwave them or warm them on a stovetop.

Is eating overnight oats every day healthy? ›

When combined with milk or yoghurt, overnight oats can be a source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body function. The fibre and nutrients in oats are associated with a reduced risk of heart disease. They can help lower bad LDL cholesterol levels and promote cardiovascular health.

Is it better to eat overnight oats or hot oats? ›

Additionally, overnight oats retain more of their natural nutrients since they are not exposed to high heat during the cooking process. Cooked oats, on the other hand, have a higher glycemic index compared to overnight oats. This means they may cause a more rapid increase in blood sugar levels.

Can I put overnight oats in the microwave? ›

After prepping, let sit overnight then microwave for 30 second increments with the lid of the bottle removed. If you'd like to prepare Oats Overnight as traditional (high protein) oatmeal in a bowl, we recommend using only 4oz milk (or milk substitute) then microwaving for about a minute and enjoy by the spoonful.

What is the best way to eat overnight oats? ›

Warm it up if you prefer warm oats in the morning. Although overnight oatmeal is typically served cold, you can definitely eat them warm. Just place them in the microwave for one minute and be sure to use a microwave-safe jar.

What is the point of overnight oats? ›

When you soak oats, it's almost like you're cooking them without heat. Soaking helps the starches break down and reduces the natural phytic acid, which may help your body utilize the oats' nutrients much more efficiently. Overnight oats are healthier for your gut.

Which is healthier, overnight oats or chia pudding? ›

Not only are overnight oats the heavier option in terms of texture, they are also richer in nutrients. Although chia seeds provide healthy protein, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids, whole-grain oats are a heartier source of vitamins, minerals, and heart-healthy antioxidants, and are generally considered more filling.

How long do overnight oats last? ›

We recommend storing overnight oats in the refrigerator in airtight containers for up to five days. That means if you're meal-prepping on Sunday, you can make a work week's worth of overnight oats and not have to think about breakfast again until Saturday.

What not to add in overnight oats? ›

Here's what not to do when making overnight oats.
  1. Using water instead of milk. ...
  2. Forgetting to add salt. ...
  3. Using instant or steel cut oats. ...
  4. Adding berries to your oats at night. ...
  5. Not stirring your overnight oats. ...
  6. Forgetting to add spices and seasonings. ...
  7. Omitting nuts and seeds. ...
  8. Assuming you have to eat it cold.
Oct 21, 2023

What is the secret to overnight oats? ›

Add Twice as Much Milk as Oats

Whether you prefer whole milk, rice milk or coconut milk, you can use it. Just make sure to add twice as much milk as oats. Note: You can also use whey, buttermilk or thinned yogurt for a tangier flavor.

Which milk is best for overnight oats? ›

Overnight Oats are great with all kinds of milk, dairy (pasteurized) or non-dairy. Feel free to use your favorite! We do not recommend making Overnight Oats with water because it will result in an overly liquid texture. Did this answer your question?

Can you eat overnight oats without heating? ›

Since overnight oats have made their way on the scene, they have been traditionally eaten cold. You simply take old-fashioned oats (rolled oats), milk, fixings (fruit, nuts, seeds, a sweetener), and mix it all together. Then store in the fridge overnight (hence overnight oats) to enjoy in the morning---cold.

How long do overnight oats last in the fridge? ›

We recommend storing overnight oats in the refrigerator in airtight containers for up to five days. That means if you're meal-prepping on Sunday, you can make a work week's worth of overnight oats and not have to think about breakfast again until Saturday.

Do you heat or cold rolled oats? ›

A popular breakfast favorite, oat flakes can be enjoyed cooked or raw. This means that you can either boil them, as when preparing oatmeal or porridge, or enjoy them cold, such as by adding raw oats to shakes.

Do overnight oats taste like cold oatmeal? ›

What Do Overnight Oats Taste Like? Overnight oats taste a little different than regular oatmeal—for starters, they're cold. Cold oats might not seem like a comforting breakfast, but they're actually very refreshing in the warmer months. The soaked oats have a hearty flavor that pairs well with fresh fruit.

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