Dessert

Healthy Overnight Oats with Cherry Chia Seed Jam Recipe

ByThomas Greene November 21, 2025November 21, 2025

Introduction

This Healthy Overnight Oats recipe with Cherry Chia Seed Jam is a delicious and nutritious way to start your day. Combining creamy oats, protein, and a naturally sweet berry jam, it’s perfect for busy mornings or a wholesome snack.

A white bowl filled with creamy oatmeal forms the base layer, topped with a dark red cherry chia jam spread unevenly over one side. Two shiny, fresh cherries with stems rest on top of the jam, adding a bright red pop of color. Light brown almond butter is drizzled generously over the oatmeal and jam, with thinly sliced almonds scattered around, adding texture and contrast. The bowl is on a white marbled surface, and nearby whole and sliced almonds are visible, along with a small jar containing similar oats and toppings. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3/4 cup gluten free rolled oats
1/4 cup plant-based vanilla protein powder of choice
3/4 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk
2 tablespoons unsweetened coconut yogurt (or Greek yogurt)
1 tablespoon pure maple syrup (adjust to preferred sweetness)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
1 tablespoon almond butter
1 cup fresh cherries, pitted
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, add the pitted cherries and microwave for 30 seconds. Mash them with a fork or masher until broken into small pieces and releasing ample juice.
Step 2: Stir in the chia seeds, maple syrup, and vanilla extract with the cherries. Set the mixture in the fridge to thicken while you prepare the oats.
Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the oats, protein powder, almond milk, yogurt, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until well mixed.
Step 4: In a mason jar or two smaller jars, layer half of the oat mixture, then half of the cherry chia jam. Add the remaining oats on top, followed by the rest of the cherry jam and a dollop of almond butter.
Step 5: Seal the jar(s) and refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld and oats to soften.
Step 6: In the morning, remove from the fridge and optionally sprinkle with slivered almonds or hemp seeds. Enjoy cold or warm it up briefly in the microwave.

Tips & Variations

Swap almond butter for peanut or cashew butter for a different flavor.
Use frozen cherries and thaw them before mashing if fresh aren’t available.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the oats for extra warmth and spice.
For a vegan version, ensure your protein powder and yogurt are plant-based.

Storage

Store the prepared overnight oats in a sealed jar or container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir before eating, and reheat gently in the microwave if you prefer it warm. The cherry chia jam may thicken more when chilled; just give it a mix before serving.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with a creamy oatmeal base forms the bottom layer, topped with a bright red cherry chia jam layer that looks thick and textured, finishing with three whole dark red cherries placed on top. To the right, there is a clear glass jar showing three layers: a creamy oatmeal layer at the bottom, a thick middle layer of red chia jam, and another creamy oatmeal layer on top, crowned with two whole dark cherries. Around the dishes, there are a few whole dark cherries and scattered almonds on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without protein powder?

Yes, you can omit the protein powder if you don’t have it, though it adds extra protein and creaminess. You might want to increase the oats slightly or add a tablespoon of nut butter to keep it filling.

Is it necessary to microwave the cherries for the jam?

Heating the cherries helps release their juices and soften them for the chia jam. If you prefer, you can mash them fresh, but microwaving ensures better consistency and thickness once chilled.