Ingredients
- Rolled Oats (not instant): 1/2 cup
- Milk (dairy or non-dairy): 3/4 cup
- Medjool Dates: 3, pitted
- Chia Seeds: 1 tablespoon
- Vanilla Powder: 1/4 teaspoon
- Ground Cinnamon: 1/4 teaspoon
- Pinch of Salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine the pitted Medjool dates and the milk in a blender or food processor, blending until the dates are completely broken down and a smooth, creamy date milk mixture is formed.
- Step 2: In a small jar or airtight container (approximately 10-12 oz capacity), add the rolled oats, chia seeds, vanilla bean paste, ground cinnamon, and pinch of salt. Stir the dry ingredients briefly to combine.
- Step 3: Pour the prepared date milk mixture over the dry ingredients in the jar. Secure the lid tightly and shake the jar vigorously for about 30 seconds to ensure everything is thoroughly mixed and no clumps remain at the bottom.
- Step 4: Place the sealed jar in the refrigerator and chill for a minimum of 6 to 8 hours, or preferably overnight, allowing the oats and chia seeds to absorb the liquid and thicken.
- Step 5: When ready to serve, remove the oats from the refrigerator. If the mixture is too thick, stir in an extra tablespoon of milk until the desired consistency is reached. Serve cold, optionally topped with chopped nuts or fresh fruit.
Notes
- Store the sealed container of overnight oats in the main body of your refrigerator, rather than the door, to maintain a consistently cold temperature and ensure the best texture for up to 4 days.
- While traditionally served cold, if you prefer warm oats, microwave the mixture (without the lid) in 30-second bursts, stirring well between intervals, but be aware that heating may thin the texture slightly.
- Enhance the natural sweetness of the Medjool dates by topping your cold oats with something bright and acidic, like fresh berries or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes, just before serving.
- For the smoothest texture and maximum flavor, ensure you blend the dates and milk until completely smooth; if your dates are firm, soak them in the milk for 15 minutes first to soften them before blending.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American