Higher Protein Overnight Oatmeal

Higher protein overnight oatmeal is a great way to start the day!

I switched my weekday breakfast from high-protein cereal to overnight oats a few months ago. Once I made the change, I knew getting adequate protein would be important. Protein is essential to keep us full. I also exercise first thing in the morning, and I know protein is crucial after strength training for muscle building.

Remember when eggs were a reasonably priced protein source for breakfast? The good old days.

Enter protein powder. I have been using this variety from Amazon. Both the vanilla and my current variety -chocolate are delicious. This brand is plant-based, and reasonably priced compared to many protein powders.

Elements:

Rolled Oats: Rolled oats, sometimes called old-fashioned oats, are used for overnight oats. Quick oats turn mushy. One-half cup of rolled oats has 5 grams of protein.

Protein Powder: Dozens of protein powders are on the market, and they have a variety of ingredients, costs, and amounts of protein. They are often flavored which provides some sweetness.

Chia Seeds: Chia seeds add 5 grams of protein per two tablespoons. I add about a tablespoon to my oatmeal.

Cinnamon: My favorite spice adds a warming, delicious flavor.

Milk: Using dairy or soy milk will provide an additional protein boost. I use almond milk. Depending on how thick you like your overnight oats, you may need to experiment with the amount of milk you add.

Sweetener of choice: My protein powder adds enough sweetness for my taste. Add sugar, honey, maple syrup, stevia, or other sweetener of your choice.

Fruit: I eat my oatmeal with sliced banana and berries. Fruit isn’t a protein source but is high in nutrients and fiber, making it a great addition to breakfast.

Add-Ins: You can make this recipe your own. Hubby likes to add raisins to his overnight oats, I have made oats with raisins and peanut butter. Nuts or nut butter is another tasty addition. I love peanut butter with oatmeal.

Preparation:

Prepping your higher-protein overnight oatmeal couldn’t be easier. I wanted something quick and easy for my weekday breakfast, which was primarily why I stuck with cereal as long as I did. Overnight oats take less than five minutes to prep the day before.

Simply add all your ingredients to a container with a lid and stir together. I like to start by adding the protein powder, oats, chia seeds, cinnamon, plus any add-in ingredients to the container. Stir the dry ingredients together. Then I add the milk. Stir well to ensure no dry protein powder is at the bottom of your container.

Pop the lid on the container and place it in the refrigerator. Done!

Add the fresh fruit the next morning. I always add half of a banana with strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries.

Enjoy this delicious, nutritious breakfast.