There are so many mornings when I wake up and think, gee… some overnight oats or chia pudding sure would be good. Too bad I used that extra five minutes perusing endless pancake stacks on Instagram before bed instead of stirring together a few simple ingredients and throwing it in the fridge. Woooouuulda been good. Seriously, have you seen the pancake stacks, though??

When I actually plan ahead and prepare my breakfast the night before, it really is like receiving a little gift. From myself. That I can eat. That saves me some time and morning decision-making. Overnight oats are the next best thing to having someone else make you breakfast. I’m still the one who made it, but it was yesterday me, so much better than groggy, half asleep, decision-challenged (ok, and maybe a little crabby) morning me.

After enjoying this dessert-like parfait, I made a little promise to myself that I was going to start having make-ahead breakfast at least a few times a week. It was not only so easy, but it was delicious! Whether it’s overnight oats, chia pudding, smoothie prep, or soaking grains for warm cereal.

Oats for Breakfast, and Beauty

Many of us are aware that oatmeal is a heart-healthy choice for breakfast, and that consuming oats on a regular basis can help lower cholesterol and prevent cardiovascular disease. Did you know that oats are also a great food for supporting hair and skin health? One recipe my of Almond Butter Carob Overnight Oats provides over a 1/3 of your daily recommended intake of zinc, over half of your RDI of biotin and copper, more than 100% of manganese, and is a good source of plant-based protein and fiber. Zinc, biotin, and copper are important for stronger, thicker, vibrant, and optimally-growing hair. Hair falling and shedding more than usual? You may need to check your intake of these nutrients.

These vitamins and minerals also keep skin pretty. Acne and zinc deficiency have been linked, and getting more of it could help clear your skin. Copper and manganese are helpful in supporting skin integrity, keeping your skin smooth and firm. Furthermore, oats are an overlooked source of antioxidants, and will further enhance your beauty and your health, by fighting those aging free radicals.

Tonight, plan ahead a few minutes (step away from the Instagram) and fix tomorrow you a little present. Here’s to a happy, un-crabby, and delicious start to your day! Your taste-buds, beauty, and better half will thank you.

Almond Butter Carob Overnight Oats

• 3/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1 Tbsp almond butter
• 1 Tbsp of carob powder
• 1 Tbsp chia seeds
• 2 tsp of maple syrup or 1 – 2 medjool dates (optional)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
• 1/2 tsp (or more) of maca powder (for extra nutritional boost and hormone balancing)
• Toppings/layers:
• Sliced bananas
• Toasted coconut flakes
• extra almond butter

Directions:

1. Mix oats, chia seeds, and maca (if using) in a large jar. In a separate jar combine almond milk, almond butter, carob powder, maple syrup, and vanilla. If using medjool dates instead of maple syrup, combine second set of ingredients in a small blender (I use a bullet) and pulse to blend. Pour wet ingredients into oats, and stir or cover and shake. Place in fridge overnight.

2. In the morning… To make a parfait, layer slice bananas and toasted coconut flakes with the oats. Top with extra almond butter. Makes two small or one large serving.

Notes: I LOOVE combining carob and almond butter, but feel free to try cocoa powder or cacao instead of the carob, you just might need more sweetener. (carob powder is naturally sweet)

P.S. Let’s connect on Instagram! I’m enjoying meeting lots of new faces and get so excited when I see one of my WordPress buddies on IG. (@feedingyourbeauty)

P.S.S. What are some of your favorite make-ahead breakfast foods? I’m always looking for more options!