Name: Overnight Steel Cut Oats Breakfast Jars Recipe
Ingredients: Steel Cut Oats (2 cups): The star of the show! Steel cut oats, also known as Irish oats or coarse-cut oats, are whole oat groats that have been cut into smaller pieces. This minimal processing gives them a wonderfully chewy texture and a slightly nutty flavor that distinguishes them from rolled or instant oats. They are also lower on the glycemic index compared to more processed oats, meaning they provide a sustained release of energy, keeping you full and satisfied for longer. If you’re new to steel cut oats, this recipe is the perfect introduction. For those who are gluten-free or have sensitivities, ensure you are using certified gluten-free steel cut oats, as cross-contamination can sometimes occur during processing.; (Optional) Raw Buckwheat Groats (1 cup): For an extra nutritional boost and a slightly different texture profile, consider adding raw buckwheat groats. Despite the name, buckwheat is not related to wheat and is naturally gluten-free. It adds a lovely creamy consistency and a subtle earthy flavor to the oats. Buckwheat is also a great source of protein and fiber, further enhancing the satiety and nutritional value of your breakfast. If you are using buckwheat groats, substitute 1 cup of the steel cut oats with 1 cup of raw buckwheat groats for a balanced blend.; Water (5 cups): The liquid base for cooking the oats. Using water allows the natural flavors of the oats and spices to shine through. For an even richer and creamier result, you can substitute some of the water with non-dairy milk, such as almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. However, water works perfectly well and keeps the focus on the pure oat flavor. Using filtered water can also enhance the overall taste, especially if your tap water has a strong chlorine taste.; Cinnamon (1 teaspoon, optional): A classic warming spice that pairs beautifully with oats. Cinnamon adds a touch of sweetness and a comforting aroma. Beyond flavor, cinnamon is also known for its potential health benefits, including antioxidant properties and blood sugar regulation. Feel free to adjust the amount to your liking – some may prefer a more pronounced cinnamon flavor, while others might want a more subtle hint.; Cardamom (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For a more complex and exotic flavor profile, a pinch of cardamom is a wonderful addition. Cardamom brings a warm, slightly citrusy, and aromatic note that elevates the oatmeal beyond the ordinary. It’s a spice that adds depth and intrigue, making your breakfast feel a little bit special. If you’re new to cardamom, start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.; Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon, optional): Vanilla extract enhances the overall sweetness and rounds out the flavors of the oats and spices. It adds a touch of warmth and familiarity, making the breakfast even more comforting. Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor. If you don’t have vanilla extract, you can omit it, or consider using a vanilla bean paste for an even more intense vanilla flavor.; Himalayan Salt (pinch): A pinch of salt is crucial in almost any recipe, even sweet ones. Salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and balances the sweetness. Himalayan salt is used here, but regular sea salt or kosher salt works just as well. Don’t skip the salt – it makes a noticeable difference in the final taste.; Optional Toppings (Endless possibilities!): This is where the real fun begins! Toppings are what truly personalize your breakfast jars and make them exciting day after day. Think of the oats as a blank canvas, ready to be adorned with your favorite flavors and textures. Here are some suggestions from the recipe and beyond: Dried Fruit (1-2 tablespoons chopped dates, raisins, apricots, etc.): Dried fruit adds natural sweetness, chewiness, and concentrated flavor. Dates provide a caramel-like sweetness, raisins offer a classic fruity note, and apricots bring a slightly tangy and bright flavor. Chop larger dried fruits into smaller pieces for easier eating.; Unsweetened Coconut Flakes (1 tablespoon): Coconut flakes add a delightful tropical touch and a satisfying crunch. Unsweetened flakes are preferred to control the overall sweetness of the breakfast. For a toastier flavor, you can lightly toast the coconut flakes in a dry pan for a few minutes until golden brown.; Fresh Berries (1/4 cup of any kind): Berries are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and natural sweetness. They add a burst of freshness and vibrant color to your breakfast. Choose your favorites – blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, or a mix! Seasonal berries are always the most flavorful and often more budget-friendly.; Non-Dairy Milk (1/4 – 1/3 cup coconut, almond, cashew, oat, or any): While the oats are already cooked in water, adding a splash of non-dairy milk before serving can enhance the creaminess and add a different flavor dimension. Coconut milk provides richness and a tropical flavor, almond milk is subtly nutty, cashew milk is creamy and mild, and oat milk adds a natural sweetness and oat-y flavor. Choose your favorite or experiment with different types!; Pure Maple Syrup, Coconut Sugar, or Other Sweetener (1-2 tablespoons): For those who prefer a sweeter breakfast, a drizzle of pure maple syrup, a sprinkle of coconut sugar, or another sweetener of choice adds just the right touch. Maple syrup offers a rich, caramel-like sweetness, while coconut sugar has a slightly less refined sweetness and a hint of caramel. Agave nectar, date syrup, or even a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or monk fruit can also be used.; Nuts and Seeds (1-2 tablespoons of any kind): Nuts and seeds provide healthy fats, protein, and satisfying crunch. They add texture and nutritional value to your breakfast. Almonds, walnuts, pecans, chia seeds, flax seeds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds – the options are endless! Roasting nuts and seeds lightly can enhance their flavor and crunch.; Cocoa Nibs (sprinkle): For a hint of chocolatey bitterness and a satisfying crunch, a sprinkle of cocoa nibs is a fantastic addition. Cocoa nibs are unsweetened chocolate in their purest form, packed with antioxidants and a rich, intense chocolate flavor. They add a sophisticated touch to your breakfast.; 100% Fruit Chia Jam (1-2 tablespoons): Chia jam is a healthy and naturally sweetened way to add fruity flavor and a jam-like consistency without added refined sugars. Look for 100% fruit chia jam or make your own easily at home. Chia seeds are also packed with fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.; Almond Butter or Nut Butter of Choice (1-2 tablespoons): Nut butter adds creamy richness, healthy fats, and protein. Almond butter, peanut butter, cashew butter, sunflower seed butter – choose your favorite! Nut butter adds a satisfyingly decadent element to your breakfast and helps to keep you feeling full and energized.

Ingredients

Steel Cut Oats (2 cups): The star of the show! Steel cut oats, also known as Irish oats or coarse-cut oats, are whole oat groats that have been cut into smaller pieces. This minimal processing gives them a wonderfully chewy texture and a slightly nutty flavor that distinguishes them from rolled or instant oats. They are also lower on the glycemic index compared to more processed oats, meaning they provide a sustained release of energy, keeping you full and satisfied for longer. If you’re new to steel cut oats, this recipe is the perfect introduction. For those who are gluten-free or have sensitivities, ensure you are using certified gluten-free steel cut oats, as cross-contamination can sometimes occur during processing.

(Optional) Raw Buckwheat Groats (1 cup): For an extra nutritional boost and a slightly different texture profile, consider adding raw buckwheat groats. Despite the name, buckwheat is not related to wheat and is naturally gluten-free. It adds a lovely creamy consistency and a subtle earthy flavor to the oats. Buckwheat is also a great source of protein and fiber, further enhancing the satiety and nutritional value of your breakfast. If you are using buckwheat groats, substitute 1 cup of the steel cut oats with 1 cup of raw buckwheat groats for a balanced blend.

Water (5 cups): The liquid base for cooking the oats. Using water allows the natural flavors of the oats and spices to shine through. For an even richer and creamier result, you can substitute some of the water with non-dairy milk, such as almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. However, water works perfectly well and keeps the focus on the pure oat flavor. Using filtered water can also enhance the overall taste, especially if your tap water has a strong chlorine taste.

Cinnamon (1 teaspoon, optional): A classic warming spice that pairs beautifully with oats. Cinnamon adds a touch of sweetness and a comforting aroma. Beyond flavor, cinnamon is also known for its potential health benefits, including antioxidant properties and blood sugar regulation. Feel free to adjust the amount to your liking – some may prefer a more pronounced cinnamon flavor, while others might want a more subtle hint.

Cardamom (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For a more complex and exotic flavor profile, a pinch of cardamom is a wonderful addition. Cardamom brings a warm, slightly citrusy, and aromatic note that elevates the oatmeal beyond the ordinary. It’s a spice that adds depth and intrigue, making your breakfast feel a little bit special. If you’re new to cardamom, start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.

Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon, optional): Vanilla extract enhances the overall sweetness and rounds out the flavors of the oats and spices. It adds a touch of warmth and familiarity, making the breakfast even more comforting. Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor. If you don’t have vanilla extract, you can omit it, or consider using a vanilla bean paste for an even more intense vanilla flavor.

Himalayan Salt (pinch): A pinch of salt is crucial in almost any recipe, even sweet ones. Salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and balances the sweetness. Himalayan salt is used here, but regular sea salt or kosher salt works just as well. Don’t skip the salt – it makes a noticeable difference in the final taste.

Optional Toppings (Endless possibilities!): This is where the real fun begins! Toppings are what truly personalize your breakfast jars and make them exciting day after day. Think of the oats as a blank canvas, ready to be adorned with your favorite flavors and textures. Here are some suggestions from the recipe and beyond:
- Dried Fruit (1-2 tablespoons chopped dates, raisins, apricots, etc.): Dried fruit adds natural sweetness, chewiness, and concentrated flavor. Dates provide a caramel-like sweetness, raisins offer a classic fruity note, and apricots bring a slightly tangy and bright flavor. Chop larger dried fruits into smaller pieces for easier eating.
- Unsweetened Coconut Flakes (1 tablespoon): Coconut flakes add a delightful tropical touch and a satisfying crunch. Unsweetened flakes are preferred to control the overall sweetness of the breakfast. For a toastier flavor, you can lightly toast the coconut flakes in a dry pan for a few minutes until golden brown.
- Fresh Berries (1/4 cup of any kind): Berries are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and natural sweetness. They add a burst of freshness and vibrant color to your breakfast. Choose your favorites – blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, or a mix! Seasonal berries are always the most flavorful and often more budget-friendly.
- Non-Dairy Milk (1/4 – 1/3 cup coconut, almond, cashew, oat, or any): While the oats are already cooked in water, adding a splash of non-dairy milk before serving can enhance the creaminess and add a different flavor dimension. Coconut milk provides richness and a tropical flavor, almond milk is subtly nutty, cashew milk is creamy and mild, and oat milk adds a natural sweetness and oat-y flavor. Choose your favorite or experiment with different types!
- Pure Maple Syrup, Coconut Sugar, or Other Sweetener (1-2 tablespoons): For those who prefer a sweeter breakfast, a drizzle of pure maple syrup, a sprinkle of coconut sugar, or another sweetener of choice adds just the right touch. Maple syrup offers a rich, caramel-like sweetness, while coconut sugar has a slightly less refined sweetness and a hint of caramel. Agave nectar, date syrup, or even a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or monk fruit can also be used.
- Nuts and Seeds (1-2 tablespoons of any kind): Nuts and seeds provide healthy fats, protein, and satisfying crunch. They add texture and nutritional value to your breakfast. Almonds, walnuts, pecans, chia seeds, flax seeds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds – the options are endless! Roasting nuts and seeds lightly can enhance their flavor and crunch.
- Cocoa Nibs (sprinkle): For a hint of chocolatey bitterness and a satisfying crunch, a sprinkle of cocoa nibs is a fantastic addition. Cocoa nibs are unsweetened chocolate in their purest form, packed with antioxidants and a rich, intense chocolate flavor. They add a sophisticated touch to your breakfast.
- 100% Fruit Chia Jam (1-2 tablespoons): Chia jam is a healthy and naturally sweetened way to add fruity flavor and a jam-like consistency without added refined sugars. Look for 100% fruit chia jam or make your own easily at home. Chia seeds are also packed with fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Almond Butter or Nut Butter of Choice (1-2 tablespoons): Nut butter adds creamy richness, healthy fats, and protein. Almond butter, peanut butter, cashew butter, sunflower seed butter – choose your favorite! Nut butter adds a satisfyingly decadent element to your breakfast and helps to keep you feeling full and energized.

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Instructions

1. Simmer for Flavor and Texture:

Gather your ingredients: Start by assembling your steel cut oats (and buckwheat groats, if using), water, cinnamon, cardamom (if using), vanilla extract (if using), and Himalayan salt. Having everything measured and ready to go streamlines the process.

Choose your pot: A Dutch oven or a large, heavy-bottomed pot works best for this recipe. The heavy bottom helps distribute heat evenly and prevents scorching. If you don’t have a Dutch oven, any large pot with a lid will do.

Combine ingredients: Pour the steel cut oats (and buckwheat groats), water, cinnamon, cardamom, vanilla extract, and salt into your pot. Stir everything together to ensure the spices are evenly distributed and the oats are well-coated in the water.

Bring to a boil: Place the pot over high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Watch carefully at this stage, as it can quickly boil over.

Reduce heat and simmer: Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to the lowest setting possible. The goal is a gentle simmer, not a vigorous boil. Cover the pot tightly with a lid.

Simmer for 5 minutes: Set a timer for 5 minutes and let the oats simmer gently, covered. This short simmering time is crucial. It partially cooks the oats and kickstarts the gelatinization process, which will continue overnight in the refrigerator.

Stir and check consistency: After 5 minutes of simmering, remove the pot from the heat. Give the oatmeal a good stir to ensure everything is well combined. At this point, assess the consistency. If the mixture looks too thick, add a little more water (a quarter cup at a time) and stir until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, it will thicken further as it cools and sits overnight.

2. Rest Overnight for Creamy Perfection:

Cool completely: Allow the cooked oat mixture to cool down to room temperature. This is important before transferring it to the refrigerator to prevent condensation buildup in your containers and to ensure food safety.

Prepare your jars or containers: While the oats are cooling, get your mason jars or other airtight containers ready. Pint-sized mason jars (16 ounces) are ideal for individual servings and toppings. Wide-mouth jars are preferred for easier spooning and topping access. You can also use reusable food storage containers if you prefer.

Fill jars or store in pot: Once the oats are cooled, you have two options:
- Individual Jars: For grab-and-go convenience, divide the cooled oat mixture evenly among your mason jars or containers. Leave some space at the top for toppings. This is perfect for meal prepping breakfasts for the week.
- Store in Pot: Alternatively, if you prefer to assemble your breakfast jars in the morning or are making a larger batch for the family, you can simply leave the cooked oatmeal in the pot you cooked it in. Cover the pot tightly with a lid.

Refrigerate overnight: Place the filled jars or the covered pot in the refrigerator and let them rest overnight (or for at least 8 hours). This overnight refrigeration period is essential. During this time, the oats will continue to absorb the liquid and soften, resulting in a creamy and perfectly textured oatmeal without any further cooking in the morning. The cold temperature also ensures food safety and makes the oatmeal refreshing for a morning meal.

3. Fill Jars and Customize for Morning Delight:

Prepare your toppings: In the morning, gather your chosen toppings. Having your toppings prepped and ready makes the assembly process quick and efficient. This might involve chopping dried fruit, measuring out nuts and seeds, washing berries, etc.

Assemble your breakfast jars: If you stored the oatmeal in a pot, spoon out the desired amount into your mason jars or bowls. If you already filled individual jars, they are ready to be topped!

Layer your toppings (optional but recommended): For visually appealing and well-distributed toppings, consider layering them. You can start with a layer of non-dairy milk at the bottom, then add a layer of fruit, followed by nuts and seeds, a drizzle of sweetener, and a final sprinkle of cocoa nibs or coconut flakes on top. Get creative and have fun with it!

Enjoy cold or warm:
- Cold/Room Temperature: Many people, including the recipe author, prefer to enjoy these breakfast jars straight from the fridge at room temperature or slightly chilled. The cold oatmeal is refreshing and the textures of the toppings stand out beautifully.
- Warm: If you prefer warm oatmeal, you have a couple of options:
  - Microwave: Heat individual jars in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. Be sure to remove any metal lids before microwaving. Stir well after heating.
  - Water Bath: For a gentler warming method, fill a pot with hot (not boiling) water. Place the mason jar in the center of the pot, ensuring the water level is below the lid. Let it sit for a few minutes until warmed to your liking. This method helps to warm the oatmeal evenly without overheating or drying it out.

Nutrition

Serving Size: One Normal Portion
Calories: 250-350
Fat: 5-15 grams
Carbohydrates: 40-60 grams
Fiber: 8-12 grams
Protein: 8-12 grams