Bright, creamy, and satisfying, these High-Protein Peanut Butter Overnight Oats combine the nutty richness of peanut butter with the soft creaminess of soaked oats and Greek yogurt. The texture is thick and spoonable with a pleasant chew from rolled oats, a silky mouthfeel from yogurt and milk, and crunchy contrast from chopped nuts and chocolate chips on top. It’s an easy make-ahead breakfast that needs only a few minutes of hands-on time the night before and comes together in one jar. Serve it cold straight from the fridge, or let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes if you prefer it less chilled. For a slightly different take, check this easy peanut butter overnight oats guide to compare ideas.
Why You’ll Love This High-Protein Peanut Butter Overnight Oats
- High in protein thanks to Greek yogurt and peanut butter, helping you stay full through the morning.
- Hands-off prep — mix, refrigerate, and forget until morning.
- Creamy texture with a satisfying chew from rolled oats and a silky body from yogurt and milk.
- Balanced flavors: nutty peanut butter, warm cinnamon, and a hint of vanilla.
- Flexible toppings: banana, chopped nuts, and chocolate chips add sweetness and crunch.
- Works as breakfast, post-workout fuel, or a portable snack when jarred.
- Easily customizable with optional add-ins like protein powder, chia seeds, or flax.
- Budget-friendly ingredients you likely already keep on hand.
What Is High-Protein Peanut Butter Overnight Oats?
High-Protein Peanut Butter Overnight Oats are a no-cook breakfast made by soaking rolled oats in milk and Greek yogurt, then folding in peanut butter and a touch of sweetener. The result is a cool, creamy oat pudding with a nutty peanut butter backbone and warm aromatics from cinnamon and vanilla. It tastes like a balanced mix of peanut butter and banana with subtle sweetness and a crunchy finish when topped. The cooking method is simple: combine ingredients, refrigerate for several hours, then top and eat cold. The vibe is casual comfort — perfect for busy mornings, a lazy brunch, or a quick meal ahead of a workout.
Ingredients for High-Protein Peanut Butter Overnight Oats
For the Base
- 1 cup Rolled oats (Base of the overnight oats, providing fiber.)
- 1 cup Milk of choice (Dairy or plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (Adds creaminess and protein boost.)
- 1 pinch Salt (Balances flavors.)
For the Flavor & Sweetness
- 2 tablespoons Peanut butter (Choose your favorite for flavor and healthy fats.)
- 1 tablespoon Honey or maple syrup (Optional for sweetness.)
- 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla extract (Enhances flavor.)
- 1/4 teaspoon Cinnamon (Adds warmth and spice.)
To Serve
- 1 banana Sliced bananas (For added sweetness and creaminess.)
- 1/4 cup Chopped nuts (Almonds, walnuts, or pecans for crunch.)
- 2 tablespoons Chocolate chips (For a sweet treat.)
Ingredient Notes (Substitutions, Healthy Swaps)
- Rolled oats: Use old-fashioned rolled oats only; quick oats will get softer and lose some texture, steel-cut oats are not recommended without extra soaking and a different method.
- Milk of choice: Dairy milk gives creamier texture and more protein (if using whole or 2%); almond or oat milk works for a lighter, dairy-free option. Use unsweetened versions to control sugar.
- Greek yogurt: Full-fat or low-fat Greek yogurt both work. For dairy-free, use a thick plant-based yogurt but expect a slight change in creaminess and protein.
- Peanut butter: Natural or commercial peanut butter both work. For a different nut profile, swap for almond butter or cashew butter (flavor will change).
- Honey/maple syrup: Optional. Omit for less sugar or substitute with a sugar-free sweetener, but texture and flavor will be slightly different.
- Protein boost: If you want more protein, mix in one scoop of unflavored or vanilla protein powder (optional). Add it with the peanut butter so it blends smoothly.
- Add-ins: Chia seeds or ground flaxseed are optional and absorb liquid, creating a firmer texture and added fiber.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Gather and measure
Gather rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Measure toppings and any optional add-ins like chia seeds or protein powder.
Visual cue: Have a 16–24 oz jar or airtight container ready for mixing and storage.
Step 2 – Mix the base
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup rolled oats, 1 cup milk, 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well mixed and the oats are evenly moistened.
Visual cue: The mixture should look cohesive, not clumpy.
Step 3 – Add peanut butter and sweetener
Add 2 tablespoons peanut butter and 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (if using) to the bowl. Stir until the peanut butter is fully incorporated and evenly distributed.
Pro cue: If peanut butter resists mixing, warm it briefly in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to loosen it.
Step 4 – Flavor and optional protein
Stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon. If desired, mix in a scoop of protein powder now for an extra protein boost. If adding chia seeds or flaxseed, stir them in here.
Visual cue: The mixture will thicken slightly as powders and seeds absorb moisture.
Step 5 – Jar and chill
Transfer the mixture into a jar or airtight container. Seal tightly and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4–6 hours.
Pro cue: For a firmer texture, refrigerate 8 hours or more; for a looser texture, refrigerate 4–6 hours or add a splash more milk when serving.
Step 6 – Serve
In the morning, stir the oats. If too thick, add a splash of milk to reach desired consistency. Top with sliced banana, chopped nuts, and 2 tablespoons chocolate chips before serving.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture — they soak well and keep some chew.
- Warm thick peanut butter slightly before stirring to avoid clumps and make it mix smoothly.
- If adding protein powder, use a small amount of extra milk to avoid a chalky texture.
- Taste before refrigerating: adjust sweetness or cinnamon so flavors meld overnight.
- Store in individual jars for easy grab-and-go breakfasts.
- If you like a thicker jar, add 1 tablespoon chia seeds — they expand and thicken as they sit.
- For creamier oats, use full-fat Greek yogurt or a higher-fat milk.
- Keep toppings separate until serving to preserve crunch.
Flavor Variations
- OPTIONAL Chocolate Banana: Stir 1 tablespoon cocoa powder into the base and top with banana and chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist.
- OPTIONAL Almond Butter Swap: Replace peanut butter with almond butter and top with sliced almonds for a different nut profile.
- OPTIONAL Mixed Berry: Omit chocolate chips, fold in 1/2 cup fresh or thawed frozen berries before refrigerating, and top with chopped nuts.
- OPTIONAL Maple Cinnamon: Use maple syrup instead of honey and add an extra 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon for a warm, maple-forward flavor.
- OPTIONAL PB & Jelly: Swirl 1–2 tablespoons of your favorite jam into the compiled oats just before serving for a classic combo.
- OPTIONAL Extra Protein: Add a scoop of vanilla or unflavored protein powder to the mixture for post-workout fuel.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in a jar or bowl with sliced banana on top and a sprinkle of chopped nuts for crunch.
- Pair with a simple green smoothie or a hard-boiled egg for a balanced breakfast.
- Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt and extra fruit for a fuller brunch plate.
- Bring a sealed jar to work or school as a convenient, protein-rich lunch or snack.
- Top with a drizzle of extra peanut butter or a dusting of cinnamon just before serving.
- For a dessert-like treat, warm slightly and add a dollop of whipped cream and a few extra chocolate chips.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating
- Make-ahead: Prepare the oat mixture up to 48 hours in advance and store sealed in the fridge. Add fresh toppings the day you eat.
- Storage duration: Keep refrigerated for up to 3–4 days. The flavor will continue to meld over time.
- Reheating: These oats are meant to be eaten cold, but you can warm them gently in the microwave for 20–30 seconds after adding a splash of milk. Stir well and check temperature.
- Texture changes: Oats thicken as they sit; add milk to loosen. If you add chia or flax, expect a firmer, jelly-like texture.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store prepared overnight oats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Keep toppings separate if you want them crunchy.
- Freezing: Freezing assembled overnight oats is not recommended — the texture of yogurt and milk changes and can become grainy when thawed. If you must freeze, omit yogurt and add it fresh after thawing, but expect some loss of quality.
- Best practice: Freeze only dry components (chopped nuts or chocolate chips) separately. Prepare full jars fresh or refrigerated, not frozen.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sodium
— | —: | —: | —: | —: | —:
~580 | ~22 g | ~70 g | ~25 g | ~8 g | ~150 mg
Estimates vary by brands and portions.
FAQ About High-Protein Peanut Butter Overnight Oats
Q: Why are my overnight oats too thick?
A: They thicken as oats and any chia/flax absorb liquid. Stir in a splash of milk to loosen, or reduce chia/flax next time.
Q: Why are my oats watery in the morning?
A: If ingredients separate, give a good stir. If you used very watery yogurt or low-absorption oats, reduce liquid slightly or use thicker yogurt.
Q: Can I use quick oats or steel-cut oats?
A: Quick oats will become very soft; they work but change the texture. Steel-cut oats are not recommended without cooking or extended soaking (12+ hours).
Q: How long can I store these in the fridge?
A: Up to 3–4 days in an airtight container. Add fresh toppings when serving.
Q: Can I make this vegan or dairy-free?
A: Yes — use plant-based milk and a thick plant-based yogurt. Protein will be slightly lower unless you add plant protein powder.
Q: How do I add extra protein without changing texture?
A: Mix in one scoop of protein powder and add a small splash more milk to maintain creaminess. Choose a flavored powder that complements peanut butter, like vanilla or chocolate.
Notes
- Use a wide-mouth jar for easy mixing and eating straight from the container.
- Slice the banana just before serving to prevent browning.
- Toast your chopped nuts briefly for extra flavor and crunch.
- If you love peanut flavor, swirl a tiny extra spoonful of peanut butter on top when serving.
- For a neater presentation, layer oats and sliced banana in the jar before chilling.
Troubleshooting
- Bland flavor: Add more salt (a tiny pinch), a splash more vanilla, or a touch more honey/maple to brighten flavors.
- Chalky texture (with protein powder): Add a little more milk and mix thoroughly; use a flavored powder that blends easier.
- Oats too dry: Stir in 1–2 tablespoons milk and let sit 5 minutes before eating.
- Oats too runny: Add 1 teaspoon chia seeds and chill 10–20 minutes to thicken, or reduce milk next time.
- Clumpy peanut butter: Warm the peanut butter for 10–15 seconds before stirring to smooth it out.
- Nuts lose crunch: Keep nuts separate until ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
This High-Protein Peanut Butter Overnight Oats recipe is a simple, reliable way to start the day with a protein-rich, grab-and-go breakfast that tastes like a treat. It’s easy to adapt, stores well for several days, and balances creamy, nutty, and sweet elements in every spoonful. For another well-tested take on peanut butter overnight oats with similar ideas and extra tips, see Peanut Butter Protein Overnight Oats – The Almond Eater.
High-Protein Peanut Butter Overnight Oats
Ingredients
For the Base
- 1 cup Rolled oats Base of the overnight oats, providing fiber.
- 1 cup Milk of choice Dairy or plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt Adds creaminess and protein boost.
- 1 pinch Salt Balances flavors.
For the Flavor & Sweetness
- 2 tablespoons Peanut butter Choose your favorite for flavor and healthy fats.
- 1 tablespoon Honey or maple syrup Optional for sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla extract Enhances flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon Cinnamon Adds warmth and spice.
To Serve
- 1 banana Sliced bananas For added sweetness and creaminess.
- 1/4 cup Chopped nuts Almonds, walnuts, or pecans for crunch.
- 2 tablespoons Chocolate chips For a sweet treat.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Measure toppings and any optional add-ins like chia seeds or protein powder.
- In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well mixed and the oats are evenly moistened.
- Add peanut butter and honey or maple syrup (if using) to the bowl. Stir until the peanut butter is fully incorporated and evenly distributed.
- Stir in vanilla extract and cinnamon. If desired, mix in a scoop of protein powder for an extra protein boost. If adding chia seeds or flaxseed, stir them in here.
- Transfer the mixture into a jar or airtight container. Seal tightly and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4–6 hours.
Serving
- In the morning, stir the oats. If too thick, add a splash of milk to reach desired consistency. Top with sliced banana, chopped nuts, and chocolate chips before serving.