Make-ahead bircher muesli (overnight oats)

Name: Make-ahead bircher muesli (overnight oats)
Cook time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: European
Ingredients: 180g (1½ cups) rolled oats; 240g (1 cup) unsweetened Greek yoghurt; 250g (1 cup) milk of choice (dairy or plant-based); 1 apple, coarsely grated (skin on); 2 tbsp chia seeds; 1 tsp cinnamon; ½ tsp vanilla extract; pinch of sea salt; 1 tsp maple syrup or honey (optional)

Start the week on the right foot by mixing up a batch of overnight oats for the days ahead.

Sarah Pound

June 24, 2025

Prep bircher muesli (overnight oats) ahead, but vary the toppings.Sarah Pound

easyTime:< 30 minsServes:4

Spending 15 minutes prepping this bircher muesli sets you up for a nourishing, no-fuss breakfast throughout the week. It’s full of fibre, protein, and slow-releasing carbs, which will keep you sated all morning. And you can make it vegan, if you choose.

You can enjoy these overnight oats straight from the fridge or warm gently in the microwave with a splash of milk. Change the toppings to keep things interesting – each morning can feel different with minimal effort.

Ingredients

180g (1½ cups) rolled oats
240g (1 cup) unsweetened Greek yoghurt
250g (1 cup) milk of choice (dairy or plant-based)
1 apple, coarsely grated (skin on)
2 tbsp chia seeds
1 tsp cinnamon
½ tsp vanilla extract
pinch of sea salt
1 tsp maple syrup or honey (optional)

Method

Step 1
In a large bowl or lidded container, combine the oats, yoghurt, milk, grated apple, chia seeds, cinnamon, vanilla and salt. Stir in the maple syrup or honey, if using.
Step 2
Stir well to combine, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 3
In the morning, stir the mixture and portion it into four individual containers or jars.
Step 4
Enjoy cold, or warm by adding 2–3 tablespoons of milk per serve and microwaving for 45-60 seconds, stirring halfway through.
Step 5
Add your choice of toppings (see below) just before serving, or pack them separately to add fresh.

Bircher muesli toppings

Berry almond crunch: Fresh strawberries, blueberries, sliced almonds, and a drizzle of honey.
Apple pie style: Stewed apple or fresh apple slices, walnuts, and a sprinkle of extra cinnamon.
Banana-nut boost: Sliced banana, peanut butter or almond butter, and crushed almonds or cashews.

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