If you’re a fan of creamy, dessert-inspired breakfasts that are somehow still healthy, this banana cream pie overnight oats recipe is going to hit the spot. Imagine waking up to a little jar of joy that tastes like pie, but is packed with oats, yogurt, and chia seeds for a nourishing start to the day. This one’s easy, indulgent, and perfect for mornings when you just need a reason to jump out of bed.

Overnight oats are such a win for busy mornings. You prep them the night before, they’re ready to go when you are, and there’s so much room for creativity. But with this banana cream pie version, you get the delightful taste of dessert, minus the guilt. That graham cracker crust layer at the bottom? Game-changing.

A breakfast that feels like dessert (without the sugar crash) 🍌

I remember the first time I tried banana cream pie overnight oats—I was skeptical. How could oats possibly capture that creamy, dreamy pie vibe? But after a couple of bites, I was sold. The graham cracker layer really does give you that “crust” feeling, and the combination of ripe banana, Greek yogurt, and vanilla protein powder creates a smooth, pudding-like texture that’s so satisfying. Plus, you get the natural sweetness from the banana, just a hint of maple syrup, and that perfect vanilla kick.

If you’re looking for a breakfast that’s easy, filling, and feels like a treat, this is it. Let’s dive in!

The story behind banana cream pie overnight oats

Banana cream pie has been an American favorite for over a century. It evolved from simple banana custard pies, and by the 1940s, it was popping up in diners and cookbooks everywhere. But as much as we all love pie, it’s not exactly a weekday breakfast food—until now. This recipe takes all the creamy, banana-rich flavors of a classic pie and turns them into a nutritious morning meal. You get the nostalgia and comfort of pie, but in a convenient, healthy jar of oats. It’s the best of both worlds!

Let’s talk ingredients: the magic in each layer

This recipe has a few simple ingredients, but each one plays a crucial role in creating that pie-like experience.

Graham cracker crumbs: This is our makeshift crust. It adds a sweet, slightly crunchy layer that makes the oats feel more like dessert. If you’re out of graham crackers, crushed digestive biscuits work well too.
Banana: Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and creaminess, cutting down on the need for added sugar. The riper, the better for that intense banana flavor.
Greek yogurt: Vanilla Greek yogurt gives the oats a creamy texture and a hint of tanginess that balances the sweetness. It also boosts the protein content, making this breakfast more filling.
Chia seeds: These little seeds absorb liquid and create a thick, pudding-like consistency. Plus, they’re packed with fiber and omega-3s, making your breakfast extra nourishing.
Oats: You can use quick, minute, or rolled oats here. Rolled oats will give you the best texture, but any type will work in a pinch.
Vanilla protein powder: Optional but recommended! It adds a little extra vanilla flavor and makes the oats more filling. If you don’t have protein powder, you can skip it or add a touch more Greek yogurt.

Essential kitchen gear: what you’ll need

For this recipe, you don’t need much—just a few basics and a small container to bring it all together.

10 oz mason jar or glass container: A mason jar is perfect for this because you can see the beautiful layers. Plus, it’s easy to seal and store overnight. Any lidded glass container works too.
Mixing bowls: You’ll need a small bowl to mash the banana and mix in the other ingredients before layering them in the jar.
Spoon or spatula: For pressing down the graham cracker crust and mixing the oat mixture. A small spoon or spatula works just fine.
Measuring spoons: Since this is a small-batch recipe, measuring spoons will help you get the proportions just right, especially for ingredients like chia seeds and protein powder.

Step-by-step: how to make banana cream pie overnight oats

Ready to make your new favorite breakfast? Let’s walk through it step-by-step.

Create the crust layer
Start by mixing the graham cracker crumbs with a couple of tablespoons of milk in a small bowl. You’re looking for a wet sand texture here—not too dry, but not overly soggy. Spoon this mixture into the bottom of your mason jar and gently press it down to form a crust layer. It’ll firm up a bit overnight, giving you a sweet, slightly crunchy base.
Mix the oat mixture
In a medium bowl, mash half a ripe banana until smooth. Add the remaining milk, a bit of maple syrup, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until it’s nice and creamy. Then, stir in the oats, chia seeds, and protein powder. This mixture will thicken as it sits, thanks to the chia seeds absorbing the liquid.
Layer the oats over the crust
Carefully spoon the oat mixture over the graham cracker crust in your mason jar. Give it a little shake to settle the layers, then cover the jar with a lid or plastic wrap.
Chill overnight
Place your jar in the fridge for at least 3 hours, but ideally overnight. This allows the oats and chia seeds to absorb the liquid, creating a creamy, pudding-like consistency.
Top and enjoy
In the morning, add a dollop of vanilla Greek yogurt on top and finish with some freshly sliced bananas. If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle on a few more graham cracker crumbs. And there you have it—banana cream pie overnight oats ready to go!

Variations and twists: make it your own

Here are some fun ways to change up this recipe based on your taste and dietary needs:

Make it vegan: Use plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) and a dairy-free vanilla yogurt. You can also skip the protein powder or use a vegan variety.
Add some spice: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg in the oat mixture can add a warm, cozy flavor that pairs beautifully with the banana.
Low-sugar version: If you’re watching your sugar intake, skip the maple syrup and use unsweetened Greek yogurt. The banana itself adds quite a bit of natural sweetness.
Chocolate twist: Add a teaspoon of cocoa powder to the oat mixture for a chocolate-banana combo. You can also sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top for extra indulgence.
Peanut butter lovers: Stir a tablespoon of peanut butter into the oat mixture or drizzle some on top in the morning. Peanut butter and banana are a match made in heaven!

Serving ideas: make it a morning treat

For a fun presentation, layer the oats and yogurt in a clear glass or parfait cup. Top with banana slices and an extra sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs for a true “banana cream pie” look. This makes it feel a bit more special—perfect for a weekend brunch.

To make this a complete breakfast, pair it with a side of fresh berries or a small handful of mixed nuts for some extra protein and fiber. If you’re in a hurry, just grab the jar and go. It’s portable, delicious, and filling on its own.

Beverage pairings

Since this breakfast is creamy and a little sweet, I’d go for a drink that’s refreshing and not too heavy. Here are some of my favorites:

Iced coffee: The slight bitterness of coffee pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of banana and graham cracker. Go for iced coffee if you’re on the go or need a cooling contrast.
Chai tea latte: The warm spices of chai complement the flavors in this recipe, especially if you add a pinch of cinnamon. A chai latte, hot or iced, is a cozy match.
Green smoothie: If you want to sneak in some extra greens, a light spinach or kale smoothie is a great sidekick. It balances the sweetness with a hint of earthiness.
Vanilla almond milk: For an extra vanilla boost, a small glass of vanilla almond milk is deliciously creamy and satisfying.

Storing and reheating tips

These overnight oats will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure the jar is tightly sealed. If you’re planning on eating them over a few mornings, keep the sliced banana topping separate and add it just before serving to avoid browning.

Overnight oats are meant to be eaten cold, but if you prefer them warm, you can transfer the mixture to a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 20-second intervals until it’s the desired temperature. Just be mindful that heating may change the texture slightly.

Adjusting for different serving sizes

This recipe makes one 10 oz jar, but it’s easy to scale up if you’re prepping for the week or serving more people. Just double, triple, or quadruple the ingredients as needed. When making larger batches, I like to prepare each serving in a separate jar so they’re ready to grab and go.

Troubleshooting tips for perfect overnight oats

Too thick: If your oats are too thick in the morning, stir in a splash of milk to loosen them up. Chia seeds absorb a lot of liquid, so this is normal!
Too runny: On the flip side, if it’s too runny, add a few more oats or a sprinkle of chia seeds and let it sit for another hour.
Banana browning: To keep banana slices from browning, add them just before serving or squeeze a bit of lemon juice on them if you need to prep them in advance.

Ready to try banana cream pie for breakfast?

This banana cream pie overnight oats recipe is a simple way to start your day with something that feels a little indulgent but is packed with good-for-you ingredients. Make it your own with fun toppings or twists, and don’t be afraid to get creative. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a leisurely weekend, this breakfast will make you look forward to the morning.

FAQ

1. Can I use steel-cut oats for this recipe?
Steel-cut oats don’t soften as much as rolled oats, so the texture might be too chewy. Stick with rolled or quick oats for the best results.

2. Can I make this recipe without protein powder?
Absolutely! The protein powder adds a bit more filling power, but you can skip it or add an extra tablespoon of Greek yogurt instead.

3. How long should I let the oats sit?
For the best texture, let the oats chill overnight, but they’ll be ready in as little as 3 hours if you’re in a rush.

4. Are there gluten-free alternatives for the graham cracker crust?
Yes, you can use gluten-free graham crackers or substitute crushed nuts like almonds for a gluten-free crust.

5. Can I add other fruits?
Yes! Strawberries or blueberries are delicious additions, especially if you layer them with the oats. Just keep them fresh for the best flavor.