Measure out the rolled oats and pour them into a clean mixing jar or bowl.
1 cup rolled oats
Add the milk to the oats, ensuring they are fully submerged. Stir the mixture thoroughly with a spoon or whisk until combined.
1 cup milk
Stir in the honey or maple syrup and vanilla extract, mixing until the sweeteners are evenly distributed and the mixture is smooth.
1 tbsp honey or maple syrup, 1 tsp vanilla extract
Seal the jar or cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator and let it soak overnight or for at least 4 hours. The mixture should look thickened and the oats should be softened.
The next morning, remove the oats from the refrigerator. Observe the creamy, thick texture with the oats tender and swollen. Serve chilled, topped with your favorite fruits, nuts, or spices.