Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats are a tasty and easy breakfast option. Just mix oats, yogurt, and milk with some chopped apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon, then let it sit overnight!
These oats are creamy, sweet, and packed with flavor. I love waking up to a ready-made breakfast that’s healthy and filling. Plus, it tastes like dessert, and who can resist that? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are the star of this recipe. They soak up the liquid beautifully. If you don’t have rolled oats, quick oats can work, but they may be mushier. Steel-cut oats are not recommended for overnight oats as they won’t soften enough.
Almond Milk: Unsweetened almond milk is a great choice, but feel free to use any milk you prefer. Dairy milk, soy milk, or oat milk work well too. For a creamier texture, try full-fat coconut milk.
Apples: I love using sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp because they add natural sweetness. However, other varieties like Gala or Granny Smith can also work. If you prefer, you can swap fresh apples for applesauce—just adjust the amount to match your taste!
Chia Seeds: Using chia seeds adds some healthy omega-3s and helps create a thicker texture. If you’re looking for a substitute, try ground flaxseeds. If you want to skip this ingredient, that’s perfectly fine too!
How Do I Ensure Perfectly Creamy Overnight Oats?
Getting your overnight oats creamy is all about the right balance of ingredients! First, make sure you use enough liquid, but not too much. Follow this simple method:
- Combine dry ingredients well before adding liquids. This helps to evenly distribute flavors.
- Add the liquid gradually and mix thoroughly to avoid clumps.
- If the oats seem too thick in the morning, simply stir in a bit more milk until you reach the creaminess you like.
With these tips, you can create a delicious breakfast that meets your expectations every time! Enjoy your oatmeal adventure!
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Oats:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1 medium apple, diced (preferably a sweet variety like Fuji or Honeycrisp)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional for sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For Topping:
- Additional diced apple
- Sprinkle of cinnamon
- Nut butter or extra maple syrup (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and you’ll need to let it sit in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight to soak up all the delicious flavors. It’s a quick and easy breakfast that’s ready when you are in the morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, mix together the rolled oats, chia seeds (if you’re using them), cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Make sure everything is well blended so the flavors will mix nicely later.
2. Prepare the Liquid Mixture:
In another bowl or a jar, whisk together the almond milk, maple syrup (if you want some sweetness), and vanilla extract. This helps to make sure everything mixes smoothly when you combine them.
3. Mix It All Together:
Pour the liquid mixture over the dry ingredients. Stir everything together until it’s well combined and looks creamy.
4. Add the Apple:
Gently fold the diced apple into the oat mixture, making sure it’s evenly spread throughout the mix.
5. Store in the Fridge:
Divide the oat mixture into two jars or containers with lids. Seal them tightly and pop them in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the oats to soak up the liquid and become nice and soft.
6. Enjoy in the Morning:
In the morning, take the jars out of the fridge and give the oats a good stir. If they seem too thick, just add a splash of milk to reach the consistency you like.
7. Top and Serve:
Serve your oats in bowls topped with extra diced apples, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a drizzle of nut butter or additional maple syrup if you wish. Enjoy your delicious and healthy breakfast!
Can I Use Steel-Cut Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
While it’s possible to use steel-cut oats, keep in mind they require a longer soaking time due to their denser texture. You may want to soak them overnight in the almond milk separately or cook them briefly before combining to ensure they soften properly.
Can I Substitute the Milk for Another Type?
Absolutely! You can use any milk of your choice, including dairy, coconut, or soy milk. Just remember that the flavor and creaminess may vary slightly, so choose one that suits your taste preferences!
How Long Will These Overnight Oats Last in the Fridge?
These oats can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container. Just give them a good stir and add a splash of milk if they thicken too much before serving.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
This recipe is already vegan if you use maple syrup instead of honey. Just ensure all other ingredients, like almond milk and toppings, are also plant-based!