I’m sure that most of us have skipped breakfast at some point throughout our college career, whether a result of oversleeping, or simply not feeling in the mood to trudge through the rain or snow in order to get to the caf. Other students I know, however, skip breakfast on a regular basis, claiming that they’re simply “not hungry in the morning,” or that they just “don’t have time” to eat breakfast before class. As an avid breakfast-eater myself, I have come to recognize the benefits a wholesome breakfast can have on my entire day – studies have shown that eating breakfast is tied to improved concentration levels, as well as increased energy and endurance.

This is where overnight oats come in – if you haven’t yet heard of overnight oats, it is essentially oatmeal that is made with a cold liquid that is absorbed into the oats overnight (or about 8 hours) in a fridge. This means that you can prepare the overnight oats before you go to bed, and then wake up to a delicious and healthy breakfast that is ready to eat – no more excuses! Also, they are basically foolproof to make and entirely customizable to your taste. As long as you follow this basic recipe below, there are an infinite number of delicious combinations just waiting to happen!

1. In a glass, bowl, mug or Mason jar, add a portion of old-fashioned rolled oats (not instant oats). The amount of oats depends on how much you intend to eat, though keep in mind that the oats expand when they absorb the liquid. If desired, you can add 1 Tbsp. of chia seeds or quinoa for extra protein.

2. Pour a liquid over the oats until they are completely covered with the liquid. Some possible liquids are milk, almond milk, coconut milk, soy milk, cashew milk, or kefir (really whatever floats your boat).

3. Now, add some toppings – some possibilities are sliced banana, chopped apple, sliced strawberries, blueberries, almonds, cashews, pistachios, dried cranberries, raisins, coconut flakes, chocolate chips, Greek yogurt, peanut butter, almond butter….the possibilities are endless!

4. If desired, top off the oats with a sprinkle of cinnamon, cocoa powder, ginger, or vanilla extract.

5. Cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and put in the fridge for about 8 hours, or overnight. When it’s ready to eat in the morning, top it off with a drizzle of honey or a spoonful of sugar if desired, and stir well. If you prefer your oats warmed, you can pop it in the microwave for a minute, though they are just as delicious cold!

Here are some ideas for combinations to get you started:

• Banana Bread overnight oats: fill the container with oats, add milk or unsweetened vanilla almond milk to cover. Add ½ mashed banana, walnuts, and (if desired) small handful of chocolate chips. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

• Coconut Mango overnight oats: fill the container with oats, add milk or unsweetened coconut milk to cover. Add ½ a mango (chopped), shredded coconut, and macadamia nuts.

• Peanut Butter & Jelly overnight oats: fill the container with oats, add milk or almond milk to cover. Add a Tbsp. of peanut butter and a Tbsp. of jelly (strawberry, grape, raspberry…any flavor works).