Can I use any jam for PB&J overnight oats?

Yes. Blueberry is the original here, but strawberry, raspberry or mixed berry all work. Use one you would happily eat on toast.

Should I mix the peanut butter in or layer it?

Layering keeps distinct bites of peanut butter and jam. Stirring it into the base gives a more even peanut flavour. Both are correct.

Overnight OatsContinental

Classic PB&J

Perfect for those mornings when you crave something sweet and nostalgic. The combination of peanut butter and blueberry jam brings back childhood memories while packing serious protein. Great for pre-workout fuel or when you need sustained energy throughout the morning. Kids love this one too.

Time: 365 min
Method: Layer
Serves: 1
Energy: 600 kcal
Protein: 23 g

Go to the method

Bowl of classic pb&j overnight oats topped with blueberry jam, peanut butter and peanuts

Method

Step 1: Start with your DIY Oats base in a bowl or jar.
Step 2: Spread a generous layer of peanut butter on top, followed by blueberry jam.
Step 3: Sprinkle crushed peanuts over the jam layer.
Step 4: For best results, let it sit overnight in the fridge so the flavors meld together beautifully.

Notes from the Department

Sweet and nostalgic

Nutrition

1 serving

600 cal | 23g protein | 13g fiber

2 servings

1200 cal | 46g protein | 26g fiber

Estimates. Not medical advice.

Why it works

Peanut butter and jam have been working together since before most of us could spell either. Salty, rich peanut butter against sweet, fruity jam is a balance that doesn't need improving. Here they sit in layers over the soaked oats, with crushed peanuts on top for crunch. Overnight, the jam loosens a little and runs into the peanut butter. That is the good part.

Layer, don't stir

Spread the peanut butter first, then the jam, then the peanuts. Keeping the layers means each spoonful gets a bit of everything, and you can choose how much to mix as you eat.

Swaps

Blueberry jam is the default here. Strawberry or mixed berry jam works just as well. Fresh mashed berries make it less sweet. Almond butter can stand in for peanut butter, though then it is technically an AB&J, which is harder to say. Smooth or crunchy peanut butter, your call.

No DIY Oats jar?

Soak rolled oats overnight in milk with chia seeds and a few almonds, then layer as above.

Storage

Keeps covered in the fridge for a day or two. Add the peanuts in the morning if you want them crunchy. One serving: around 600 calories, 23g protein and 13g fibre.

Questions people ask

Can I use any jam for PB&J overnight oats?: Yes. Blueberry is the original here, but strawberry, raspberry or mixed berry all work. Use one you would happily eat on toast.
Should I mix the peanut butter in or layer it?: Layering keeps distinct bites of peanut butter and jam. Stirring it into the base gives a more even peanut flavour. Both are correct.

Department of Recipes