As a dietitian who eats overnight oats on a consistent basis, I made a big of a batch of my overnight oats and thought to myself "can I freeze overnight oats?"
I decided to test this question by freezing my overnight oats both with yogurt and with water to give you the most comprehensive guide to freezing overnight oats.
In this blog post, I'll share the results and provide you with the ultimate guide to freezing overnight oats.
Can You Freeze Overnight Oats?
Yes, you can freeze overnight oats that have been mixed with water, milk, or yogurt.
| Type of Oats | Freezable |
|---|---|
| Oats with Milk | Yes |
| Oats with Yogurt | Yes |
| Oats with Water | Yes |
| Oats with Toppings | Best to add toppings after thawing |
Freezing overnight oats is a great way to prepare breakfast ahead of time so that you always have a quick and healthy breakfast option on hand.
Properly frozen oats can last up to three months.
Drawbacks to Freezing Overnight Oats
Texture Changes:
I found the thawed oats were slightly softer after thawing, compared to the chewier texture that overnight oats have.
The frozen overnight oats had a slimier texture once thawed.
The sliminess in overnight oats is a natural occurrence due to the oat's soluble fiber content, primarily beta-glucan.
Oats contain a type of soluble fiber that forms a gel-like consistency when combined with liquid.
This gel can give overnight oats a slightly slimy or gooey texture, especially when they've been soaked for an extended period.
Separation:
This occurred particularly with my frozen overnight oats with yogurt, as some of the yogurt separated after freezing and thawing.
This as not a huge issue though, as a quick stir can usually resolve this.
Toppings:
Freezing fresh toppings can alter their texture and flavor.
If you want to add fresh toppings, it's best to do this before freezing and after thawing.
Fruits like fresh strawberries or apples will become mushy when frozen and thawed.
How to Freeze Overnight Oats
Freezing overnight oats can be a great way to save on time if you follow these tips:
Choose the Right Container:
As someone who loves a good batch of overnight oats, I've found that choosing the right container is key.
I like using glass Tupperware or airtight containers as my go-to choices. Make sure that they are freezer-safe!
Avoid Toppings:
I've tested that it's best to save toppings for after the oats have thawed to keep everything as fresh as possible, unless these toppings are cooked or are already frozen.
Portion:
Portioning my oats into individual servings before freezing has become a game-changer for grabbing the perfect portion during busy mornings.
It lets me thaw just what I need for the day without having to worry about any leftovers or spoilage.
How to Defrost Frozen Overnight Oats
Refrigerator Thawing (Recommended):
This is my preferred method.
Place your frozen oats in the fridge the night before you plan to eat them.
This slow thawing approach helps retain the oats' best texture and prevents overly mushy oats.
The overnight oats took about 12-16 hours to defrost completely in the fridge.
Microwave Thawing:
If you forgot to put your oats in the fridge overnight, you can use the microwave to defrost your oats.
Microwave them in short intervals and stir occasionally for even thawing.
If you microwave for too long, then your overnight oats will turn into oatmeal.
Once thawed, you can store the overnight oats in the refrigerator for several days.
Easy Overnight Oats Recipe
Frequently Asked Questions
Does overnight oats freeze well?
Yes, they do. Properly prepared and stored, frozen overnight oats can maintain their quality for up to three months.
Do overnight oats go in the fridge or freezer?
After my research and experimentation, overnight oats can go in both the fridge and freezer, depending on when you plan to eat them.
How long to defrost overnight oats?
The overnight oats took about 12-16 hours to defrost completely in the fridge.
How long can overnight oats stay fresh in the fridge?
Thawed overnight oats can stay fresh in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
Is eating overnight oats every day healthy?
Overnight oats everyday can be a healthy breakfast choice, but it's also important to maintain a balanced diet with variety with carbs, fats, proteins, fruits, and vegetables.
What kind of milk is best for overnight oats?
You can use any milk you prefer, such as cow's milk, almond milk, or soy milk.
What is the secret to overnight oats?
The secret lies in the right balance of oats and liquid, along with your choice of flavorings and toppings.
What makes overnight oats taste better?
Adding natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, as well as a variety of fruits, nuts, and spices, can enhance the flavor.
Do you eat overnight oats hot or cold with milk?
You can eat them either way, but they are typically enjoyed cold. However, you can warm them in the microwave if you prefer a warm breakfast.
Why add salt to overnight oats?
A pinch of salt can enhance the overall flavor of your oats, balancing sweetness and adding depth.
Are overnight oats with chia seeds good for you?
Yes, overnight oats with chia seeds are a nutritious choice. Chia seeds add fiber, healthy fats, and texture to your meal.
If you're wondering about about whether it's possible to freeze overnight oats, the answer is yes!
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More Expert Advice on Oatmeal
- Can You Eat Uncooked Oatmeal in a Smoothie – Dietitian Reviews
- Is Oatmeal Better With Milk or Water? Tips For The Best Oatmeal
- Can You Eat Uncooked Oatmeal in a Smoothie – Dietitian Reviews
- Can Oatmeal Cause Gas? Oatmeal and Digestive Health
- Is It Okay to Eat Oatmeal at Night? Foods for a Restful Sleep
- Is Instant Oatmeal Good for Diarrhea?
- Oatmeal Pros and Cons – Dietitian Reviews
- Benefits of Overnight Oats vs Cooked
- What is Blended Oatmeal
- How Long Can Oatmeal Sit Out: A Comprehensive Guide
- Can I Reheat Oatmeal? A Guide to Leftover Oatmeal
- The Ultimate Guide to Perfectly Thickened Oatmeal
- The Perfect Ratio Oats to Milk for Overnight Oats
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