Apple Pie Overnight Oats are a yummy and easy breakfast that tastes like dessert! With oats, diced apples, and a sprinkle of cinnamon, it’s so inviting and comforting.
Making these oats is super simple. I just mix everything in a jar, let it sit overnight, and wake up to a tasty treat. It’s like waking up to apple pie without the fuss! 🍏🥧
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are key for a creamy texture. You may substitute with quick oats, but they will yield a softer, mushier result. Steel-cut oats are not recommended since they need longer cooking time.
Milk: You can use any milk you like! Dairy, almond, oat, or coconut milk all work well. If you want it creamier, try canned coconut milk for an extra rich flavor.
Applesauce: Unsweetened applesauce keeps things healthy. If you want a little more sweetness, feel free to use sweetened applesauce instead. You can also replace it with mashed banana for a different flavor.
Apples: Granny Smith apples are tart and hold up well, while Honeycrisp apples offer a nice sweetness. Any firm apple works, but for a softer texture, go with softer varieties like Fuji.
Maple Syrup or Honey: These are just for sweetness. If you’re looking to reduce sugar, consider using a sugar substitute like stevia or omitting completely, especially if your apples are sweet enough.
How Do I Ensure My Overnight Oats Are Perfectly Creamy?
For creamy overnight oats, it’s essential to combine the ingredients well. Mix everything in a bowl until smooth, ensuring the oats are fully submerged in liquid. This helps them absorb flavor and become soft. Refrigerating overnight is crucial, but if you’re short on time, at least let them sit for 4 hours.
- Use a jar or airtight container to keep oats fresh and prevent them from drying out.
- If you like them thinner, stir in a dash of milk in the morning for your preferred consistency.
How to Make Apple Pie Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 medium apple, diced (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
For Toppings (optional):
- Chopped pecans or walnuts
- Additional diced apples
- Extra sprinkle of cinnamon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll then need to let the mixture sit in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight. It’s perfect for a quick grab-and-go breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix Together the Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, milk, unsweetened applesauce, diced apple, maple syrup (if you’re using it), cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Use a spoon or spatula to stir everything together until you have a nice, evenly mixed blend.
2. Portion the Mixture:
Take two jars or containers with lids and divide the oat mixture evenly between them. Make sure to leave a little space at the top because the oats will swell as they soak up the liquid.
3. Refrigerate the Oats:
Seal the jars tightly and place them in the refrigerator. Let the oats chill for at least 4 hours or overnight. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and makes the oats soft and creamy.
4. Prepare to Serve:
When you’re ready to enjoy your oats, take them out of the fridge and give the mixture a good stir. If you like your oats a bit thinner, feel free to add a splash of milk and mix until you get your desired consistency.
5. Add Your Favorite Toppings:
Top your delicious overnight oats with extra diced apples for freshness, a sprinkle of cinnamon for warmth, and chopped pecans or walnuts for a nice crunch. Feel free to be creative with your toppings!
6. Dig In!
Enjoy your healthy and tasty Apple Pie Overnight Oats cold from the fridge or at room temperature. It’s a nutritious breakfast that tastes like dessert!
Can I Use Steel-Cut Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
While you can use steel-cut oats, keep in mind that they require a longer soaking time and may not fully soften overnight. If using steel-cut oats, consider cooking them briefly before mixing in your ingredients for a better texture or soaking them for at least 12 hours.
What Non-Dairy Milk Works Best for This Recipe?
Any non-dairy milk can work, but almond milk and oat milk are popular choices due to their creamy texture and mild flavor. Coconut milk can add a delicious tropical twist but might dominate the apple pie flavor, so use it sparingly!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
This recipe is already easy to make vegan! Just use non-dairy milk and maple syrup instead of honey. You can also skip the chopped nuts or use a nut-free option if allergies are a concern.
Can I Store Leftover Overnight Oats?
Absolutely! You can store leftover overnight oats in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give them a good stir before serving, and you might want to add a splash of milk to soften them up again.