
This creamy mango overnight oats brings tropical flavor to your morning routine with minimal effort. The vibrant blend of sweet mango, coconut milk, and zingy lime creates a refreshing breakfast that feels like vacation in a jar. I perfected this recipe during a particularly dreary winter when I needed something bright to look forward to each morning.
This recipe became my secret weapon for hectic workdays. I prepare a batch on Sunday nights, and breakfast is sorted for the entire week—a morning routine game-changer that my whole family has embraced.
Ingredients
- Frozen or fresh mango: Provides natural sweetness and tropical flavor. Choose ripe fragrant mangoes if fresh or good quality frozen chunks for convenience.
- Full-fat coconut milk: Creates richness and complements the mango perfectly. The fat content helps keep you satisfied longer.
- Quick-cooking or rolled oats: Form the hearty base. Use rolled oats for more texture or quick oats for a softer result.
- Chia seeds: Add omega-3s and create a pudding-like consistency. They expand overnight creating a delightful texture.
- Fresh lime juice: Brightens all flavors and balances the sweetness with necessary acidity.
- Maple syrup: Enhances natural sweetness. Adjust according to your mango's ripeness and sweetness preference.
- Vanilla extract: Adds subtle warmth and complexity to the tropical flavors.
- Diced mango pieces: Provide delightful chunks of fruit throughout each bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Mango Milk:
- Add your mango to a high-speed blender with coconut milk water lime juice maple syrup vanilla and salt. Blend thoroughly for a full minute until completely smooth. The mixture will appear thick almost like a smoothie but this thickness is perfect as the oats will absorb much of the liquid. Ensure there are no mango chunks remaining for the smoothest texture.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- Place oats and chia seeds in a large mixing bowl and stir them together thoroughly. This even distribution ensures the chia seeds won't clump together when liquid is added. The bowl should be significantly larger than seems necessary to allow for proper mixing without spillage.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Pour your vibrant mango milk mixture over the oats and chia seeds then add the diced mango pieces. Stir everything together until completely combined making sure to incorporate any dry oats hiding at the bottom of the bowl. The mixture will initially seem very wet.
- Rest and Stir Again:
- Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes on your counter. During this time the oats and chia seeds will begin absorbing liquid. After waiting stir again to incorporate any excess liquid that may have pooled at the top. This intermediate stir makes a significant difference in the final texture.
- Portion and Refrigerate:
- Transfer the oat mixture into individual jars or containers with lids. Mason jars work perfectly and create an attractive presentation. Leave some space at the top for expansion and toppings. Seal containers and refrigerate for at least 4 hours preferably overnight for the best texture and flavor development.

The coconut milk is my favorite ingredient in this recipe. Its creaminess transforms basic oats into something special while complementing the tropical mango perfectly. I discovered this combination during an attempt to recreate a breakfast I had at a beachside café in Thailand, and honestly, I think my version is even better.
Make-Ahead Magic
These overnight oats actually improve with time as flavors meld together in the refrigerator. You can prepare a full week's worth on Sunday evening for grab-and-go breakfasts all week long. The texture gets creamier and more pudding-like after the first 24 hours, which many people including myself prefer. Just give each jar a quick stir before eating if any separation occurs.
Smart Substitutions
While the recipe calls for coconut milk you can substitute almond milk or oat milk if preferred though you'll sacrifice some creaminess. For a protein boost add a scoop of vanilla protein powder to the mango milk mixture. If mangoes aren't available pineapple or peaches make excellent alternatives while maintaining the tropical vibe. For those watching sugar intake reduce or omit the maple syrup if your mangoes are particularly sweet.
Topping Suggestions
Transform your basic overnight oats into a nutritional powerhouse with strategic toppings. A dollop of almond butter adds healthy fats and protein. Sprinkle hemp hearts for added omega fatty acids. Toast unsweetened coconut flakes until golden and add just before serving for delightful crunch. For texture contrast consider sliced almonds pistachios or pepitas. Fresh mango chunks make an attractive and flavorful garnish especially when you want to serve these to guests.

This recipe delivers tropical bliss with minimal effort—your mornings will never be the same!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen mango instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use either frozen or fresh mango in this recipe. If using frozen mango for the milk, there's no need to thaw it first. However, for the diced mango mix-in, it's best to thaw it slightly so it doesn't make the oats too cold.
- → How long do mango overnight oats stay fresh?
These mango overnight oats will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days when stored in airtight containers, making them perfect for meal prep.
- → Can I warm up these overnight oats?
Absolutely! While traditionally served cold, you can gently warm these mango overnight oats in the microwave or on the stovetop if you prefer a warm breakfast.
- → What can I substitute for coconut milk?
If you don't have or prefer not to use coconut milk, you can substitute with almond milk, oat milk, or any other plant-based milk. However, full-fat coconut milk provides the creamiest texture and complements the tropical mango flavor best.
- → Are these overnight oats vegan?
Yes, these mango overnight oats are completely vegan as they use plant-based ingredients like coconut milk and maple syrup instead of animal products.
- → Can I skip the chia seeds?
While chia seeds help thicken the oats and add nutritional benefits like omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, you can omit them or substitute with ground flaxseed as mentioned in the recipe. The texture might be slightly less pudding-like without them.