Save This wholesome mixed berry crumble overnight oats recipe transforms your morning routine with minimal effort. I created this recipe during a particularly hectic work week when I needed nutritious breakfasts without the morning rush. The combination of creamy oats with sweet-tart berries and that irresistible crunchy topping has made this a permanent fixture in my weekly meal prep.
My family initially scoffed at the idea of cold oatmeal, but now this recipe has become our go-to breakfast during summer months when turning on the stove feels unbearable. Even my picky nephew requests it when he stays over.
Ingredients
- For the Overnight Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats provide the perfect chewy texture and sustained energy release
- Milk: creates the creamy base use any variety you prefer
- Greek yogurt: adds protein and tanginess for a more satisfying breakfast
- Chia seeds: create pudding-like thickness while adding omega-3s and fiber
- Maple syrup or honey: brings natural sweetness adjust to your preference
- Vanilla extract: enhances the flavor profile without adding sugar
- Mixed berries: deliver antioxidants and natural sweetness choose whatever is in season
- For the Crumble Topping: Old-fashioned rolled oats create the base of our crunchy topping
- Almond flour: adds nutty flavor and helps bind the crumble
- Sliced almonds: provide extra crunch and healthy fats
- Brown sugar: caramelizes during baking for rich sweetness
- Butter: creates that irresistible crumbly texture use high-quality for best flavor
- Cinnamon: adds warmth and complexity to the flavor profile
- Salt: enhances all flavors choose fine sea salt for best results
Instructions
- Create the Base:
- Combine oats, milk, yogurt, chia seeds, sweetener, and vanilla in a medium bowl. Stir thoroughly until no dry spots remain. The mixture will look very liquid at this point but will thicken significantly overnight as the oats and chia seeds absorb the liquid.
- Add the Berries:
- Gently fold in your mixed berries. If using frozen berries, fold them in while still frozen as they will gradually thaw overnight and release their juices into the oats. If using larger berries like strawberries, consider cutting them into smaller pieces for more even distribution of flavor.
- Portion and Refrigerate:
- Divide the mixture between two jars or containers. Mason jars work perfectly as they seal well and make for convenient grab-and-go breakfasts. Leave about an inch of space at the top for the crumble topping. Seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
- Prepare the Crumble:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a small bowl, combine the dry crumble ingredients first oats, almond flour, sliced almonds, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well to distribute the spices evenly. Add the cold butter and use your fingertips to rub it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces remaining.
- Bake the Crumble:
- Spread the crumble mixture evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes, watching carefully as it can burn quickly. The crumble should be golden brown and fragrant. Allow it to cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
- Assemble and Serve:
- When ready to eat, top each jar of overnight oats with a generous portion of the crumble topping. The contrast between the cold, creamy oats and the crunchy crumble creates a delightful textural experience.
Save The chia seeds are my secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered their amazing thickening properties years ago when making puddings, and now I add them to all my overnight oats recipes. They create that perfect spoonable consistency while boosting the nutritional profile significantly with omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and minerals.
Seasonal Berry Adaptations
Summer is prime time for this recipe when berries are at their peak of flavor and affordability. During summer months, I recommend using fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for the brightest flavor. The natural sweetness of perfectly ripe berries means you can reduce the added sweetener.
For fall and winter versions, frozen berry mixes work beautifully and are often more economical. The frozen berries actually help create a jammy consistency as they thaw overnight. During autumn, try adding a pinch of nutmeg and cardamom to the crumble for a warming seasonal twist.
Spring calls for strawberry-rhubarb combinations. If using rhubarb, cook it down slightly with a bit of sweetener before adding to your oats mixture, as raw rhubarb is quite tart and tough.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
The assembled overnight oats will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture actually improves after the first 24 hours as the flavors meld together. However, I recommend storing the crumble topping separately in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain its crunch.
For meal prep efficiency, make a double batch of the crumble topping and store it in your pantry. This way, you can quickly assemble several jars of overnight oats on Sunday evening and have breakfast ready for the entire workweek.
If you notice your oats becoming too thick after multiple days in the refrigerator, simply stir in a splash of milk before serving to reach your desired consistency.
Nutritional Boosters
Transform this already nutritious breakfast into a supercharged morning meal with these simple additions. Each one increases the nutritional profile without compromising the delicious taste.
Add a scoop of unflavored collagen peptides or your favorite protein powder to increase protein content
Stir in a tablespoon of ground flaxseed for additional omega-3 fatty acids
Mix in a teaspoon of maca powder for energy and hormone balance
Serving Suggestions
While these overnight oats are a complete breakfast on their own, I love creating a breakfast board when hosting weekend guests. Serve the oats in individual jars alongside additional toppings like fresh berries, toasted coconut flakes, cacao nibs, and different nut butters so everyone can customize their breakfast.
For special occasions, serve the overnight oats in elegant glassware and top with a dollop of whipped coconut cream and a sprig of fresh mint. This elevated presentation makes the humble oats feel like a special treat.
During hot summer months, try freezing half the berry mixture in ice cube trays, then blending with the overnight oats in the morning for a refreshing breakfast smoothie bowl topped with the crunchy crumble.
Save These little details elevate the dish from simple to spectacular, ensuring a consistently delicious and satisfying breakfast every time.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen berries work well and do not need to be thawed before mixing into the oats.
- → Is there a substitute for almond flour and sliced almonds?
For a nut-free version, you can use sunflower seed flour and pumpkin seeds in the crumble topping.
- → How can I increase the protein content?
Add a scoop of your preferred protein powder to the oat mixture for extra protein in each serving.
- → What type of milk works best?
Any milk will work, including dairy or unsweetened plant-based alternatives such as almond, oat, or soy milk.
- → How long do the oats and crumble keep?
Overnight oats keep refrigerated for up to 3 days. Store crumble separately and add before serving for best texture.
- → Can the crumble be made in advance?
Yes, prepare and store cooled crumble in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.