Decadent Banoffee Overnight Oats Recipe

Imagine waking up to the flavors of a classic banoffee pie—sweet bananas, rich caramel, and creamy yogurt—all in a healthy, hearty bowl of overnight oats. This banoffee-inspired recipe is a game-changer for busy mornings, blending all those luscious flavors into a breakfast that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients that’ll keep you satisfied through the morning rush.

I first stumbled upon the idea of banoffee overnight oats when I was craving something sweet for breakfast but wanted to keep it on the healthier side. The result was a breakfast that tastes like dessert but is nourishing enough to start the day. And with just a bit of planning the night before, it’s ready and waiting when you wake up. Let’s dive in!

this RECIPE

Why I love this recipe (and you will too!)

These banoffee overnight oats are perfect for anyone who wants a quick yet indulgent breakfast. The oats and chia seeds create a thick, pudding-like base that soaks up the flavors of cinnamon and banana overnight. A layer of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein, while the homemade caramel sauce—made from almond butter and maple syrup—ties it all together with just the right amount of sweetness. Plus, the whole thing is packed with fiber, healthy fats, and plant-based protein to keep you energized.

The origin story: How banoffee inspired a breakfast revolution

Banoffee pie is a beloved British dessert made with bananas, toffee, cream, and a buttery biscuit crust. The name is actually a playful combination of “banana” and “toffee.” Over the years, banoffee has inspired countless spins, from milkshakes to cheesecakes, but making it into a breakfast oat bowl might just be my favorite twist. This version captures the essence of banoffee in a healthier form, with natural ingredients that won’t weigh you down.

Key ingredients to make it magic

Let’s break down what goes into these overnight oats and why each ingredient plays an important role:

• Banana: Half is mashed into the oat base for sweetness and creaminess, while the other half is sliced on top for freshness and presentation. If you’re out of bananas, you could try mashed sweet potato or applesauce for a different spin.
• Rolled oats: These create a perfect creamy base when soaked overnight. Quick oats can work in a pinch, but avoid steel-cut oats, as they won’t soften enough by morning.
• Soy milk: Unsweetened soy milk adds a slight creaminess without extra sugar. Almond or oat milk works just as well—choose your favorite!
• Chia seeds: These tiny seeds absorb liquid, thickening the mixture and adding a boost of fiber and omega-3s. They’re essential for that thick, pudding-like texture.
• Cinnamon: A pinch of cinnamon adds warmth and pairs perfectly with the banana and caramel flavors. You could also try a dash of nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist.
• Greek yogurt: This layer brings a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweet oats. For a dairy-free option, try coconut or almond yogurt.
• Caramel sauce: Almond butter, maple syrup, olive oil, and vanilla come together to make a quick, rich caramel sauce. It’s a healthier twist on caramel that brings all the indulgence without refined sugar.

Must-have kitchen tools (don’t worry, you probably have them!)

For this recipe, you won’t need much in the way of fancy equipment:

• Mixing bowl: To combine the oats, banana, chia seeds, and milk.
• Small bowl: For stirring up that quick caramel sauce.
• Jar or container: For layering and storing your overnight oats. Mason jars are perfect for this, but any small lidded container works just fine.
• Fork or potato masher: To mash the banana easily.

With just these basic tools, you’re all set to make your new favorite breakfast!

Step-by-step: Making banoffee overnight oats

Ready to get started? Let’s walk through this easy recipe together. Here’s how it’s done:

1. Mash the banana: Take half of a ripe banana and mash it in a bowl until smooth. Riper bananas are sweeter, so this step helps naturally sweeten the oats without adding sugar.
2. Mix in the oat base: Add the rolled oats, soy milk, chia seeds, and cinnamon to the bowl with the mashed banana. Stir well until everything is combined. Transfer this mixture to a jar or container, then set it aside to let the chia seeds start absorbing the liquid.
3. Make the caramel sauce: In a separate small bowl, stir together the almond butter, maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and vanilla extract. It should be smooth and creamy. If it feels too thick, add a tiny splash of soy milk to thin it out just slightly.
4. Layer it up: Once your oat base has had a few minutes to thicken, it’s time to assemble. Start by adding a layer of Greek yogurt on top of the oats for that creamy, tangy element. Then, drizzle the caramel sauce over the yogurt layer.
5. Add toppings: Slice the remaining half of the banana and arrange it on top. Feel free to add any other toppings you like—crushed nuts, cacao nibs, or a sprinkle of cinnamon are all great choices.
6. Chill overnight: Seal the jar or container and place it in the fridge. Let the oats sit for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal for the best texture.
7. Enjoy! In the morning, give everything a quick stir or dig in as-is for a layered experience. It’s a breakfast that feels like a treat!

Variations to make it your own

One of the best things about overnight oats is how customizable they are. Here are some ways to adapt this recipe:

• Vegan option: Use dairy-free yogurt instead of Greek yogurt, like coconut or almond-based varieties.
• Nut-free: If you’re avoiding nuts, swap the almond butter in the caramel sauce for sunflower seed butter. It has a similar creamy texture and a slightly nutty taste without the allergens.
• Lower sugar: If you’re watching sugar, reduce the maple syrup in the caramel sauce to half a tablespoon, or skip it entirely and use unsweetened nut butter with a few drops of liquid stevia.
• Chocolate twist: Add a spoonful of cocoa powder to the oat mixture or sprinkle some dark chocolate chips on top for a chocolatey banoffee experience.
• Extra protein: For a protein boost, add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the oat mixture. Vanilla or caramel-flavored powders would work especially well.

Serving and presentation ideas

When it comes to presentation, you don’t have to go all out—these oats are delicious even if you dig in straight from the jar! But if you want to make it a little fancier (especially for a weekend brunch), here are some ideas:

• Layered parfait: Serve the oats in a clear glass so you can see the layers of oats, yogurt, caramel, and banana.
• Garnish with style: Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon, a few cacao nibs, or a drizzle of extra almond butter for that “gourmet” look.
• Add a crunchy topping: A few crushed walnuts or granola on top adds a delightful crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy oats.

Perfect drinks to pair with your oats

Looking for a cozy drink to go with your banoffee overnight oats? Here are some options that pair perfectly:

• Chai latte: The warm spices in a chai latte complement the cinnamon and caramel flavors in the oats.
• Golden milk: A turmeric latte adds a touch of spice and warmth, and its golden color looks beautiful alongside these oats.
• Iced coffee: If you’re a coffee lover, a cold brew or iced latte balances the sweetness of the oats and makes for a refreshing combo.
• Herbal tea: A mild herbal tea, like chamomile or rooibos, adds a gentle flavor without overpowering the oats.

Storage and reheating tips

Overnight oats are fantastic for meal prep! Here’s how to store and enjoy them:

• Fridge: Keep your oats in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, so they taste even better after a day or two.
• Reheating: While overnight oats are typically eaten cold, you can warm them up if you prefer. Just microwave them in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until they’re at your desired temperature.
• Freezing: If you make a big batch, you can freeze portions of the oat base (before adding yogurt or toppings) in freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then add fresh toppings in the morning.

Scaling the recipe for more servings

If you’re making this recipe for a family breakfast or meal prep, you can easily double or triple the ingredients. Just keep in mind that when scaling up, the chia seeds may absorb more liquid, so you might need a splash of extra milk to keep the oats from getting too thick.

FAQ

Q: Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
A: Yes, but the texture will be softer and less chewy. Rolled oats are ideal for overnight soaking.

Q: Do I have to use chia seeds?
A: Chia seeds help thicken the oats and add fiber, but you can skip them or use ground flaxseed instead.

Q: What if I don’t like bananas?
A: Try substituting with mashed mango or applesauce for a different flavor profile.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to use certified gluten-free oats.

Q: How can I make the caramel sauce thicker?
A: If you prefer a thicker sauce, use less olive oil or add an extra spoonful of almond butter.

Now, it’s your turn! I hope you enjoy making and eating these decadent banoffee overnight oats as much as I do. It’s a breakfast that tastes indulgent while still being packed with good-for-you ingredients—perfect for a little morning pick-me-up. Let me know how you personalize yours!

Print