Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats make for a simple and delicious breakfast that’s ready to go as soon as you wake up. This dish combines the natural sweetness of apples with a warm hint of cinnamon, all mixed with creamy oats that soak up all the flavors overnight. It’s like having a cozy, healthy treat waiting for you in the morning.
I love making these oats the night before because it frees up time in the morning and lets the oats soak up the tasty apple and cinnamon goodness. One of my favorite tricks is to toss in some chopped nuts or a drizzle of honey for a little extra texture and sweetness—just enough to make it feel special without any extra fuss.
To enjoy, I usually grab a spoon and a cup of coffee, then settle in for a relaxed start. It’s perfect for busy mornings or when you want something filling but not heavy. Plus, it’s a great way to get in some fiber and fruit right at the start of the day, which makes me feel good all morning long.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats soak up liquid perfectly for creamy overnight oats. If you prefer, old-fashioned oats work well too. Avoid instant oats since they get too mushy.
Milk: Use any milk you like—cow’s milk or plant-based options like almond, oat, or soy milk. Choose unsweetened to control sweetness.
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and protein. For dairy-free versions, try coconut yogurt or skip it altogether and add a bit more milk.
Chia Seeds: These help thicken the mixture and add fiber. If you don’t have chia seeds, you can leave them out or use ground flaxseeds instead.
Apples: I keep the skin on for extra texture and nutrients. Use any crisp apple like Fuji or Honeycrisp. You can swap apples for pears or chopped fresh peaches if in season.
Sweetener: Maple syrup or honey gives a natural sweetness. You can adjust amount or use agave nectar or brown sugar instead.
Cinnamon & Vanilla: These add warm spice and depth. Adjust cinnamon to taste, or add a pinch of nutmeg if you want a little more flavor complexity.
How Do I Get the Perfect Creamy Texture in Overnight Oats?
Getting that smooth, thick texture is all about the right mix and letting it rest long enough. Here’s how I do it:
- Mix rolled oats, milk, yogurt, chia seeds, and flavorings well so everything combines evenly.
- Stir in some diced apple to keep it fresh inside the mix.
- Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, overnight works best to let oats and chia swell fully.
- In the morning, if it feels too thick, add a splash of milk and stir to loosen.
- Add fresh diced apple on top for crunch and a bit of extra cinnamon for flavor.
This method gives creamy oats with just the right bite, not mushy or dry. Plus, allowing the chia seeds to absorb liquid makes the oats more filling and satisfying.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mason jars or small containers – perfect for portioning and easy storage in the fridge.
- Mixing bowl – great for stirring ingredients together if you’re not mixing in the jar.
- Spoon – for mixing and eating your overnight oats.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helps get the right balance of oats, milk, and chia seeds.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap apples for diced pears or peaches for a fresh twist on fruit flavor.
- Add a spoonful of peanut or almond butter for creaminess and protein.
- Mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch and healthy fats.
- Stir in a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for extra sweetness and texture.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 small apple, diced (keep the skin on for texture and color)
- Caramel sauce or nut butter (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and requires at least 6 hours or overnight in the fridge for soaking. It’s a simple, hands-off breakfast you can get ready the night before and enjoy first thing in the morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a bowl or directly in a jar, mix rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, maple syrup or honey, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined.
2. Add Half of the Apple:
Stir in half the diced apple into the oat mixture to infuse some fresh fruit flavor.
3. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover the jar or bowl and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight. This allows the oats and chia seeds to soak up the liquids and thicken beautifully.
4. Finish and Serve:
Next morning, give the oats a good stir. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up. Top with the remaining diced apple, a dash of cinnamon, and a drizzle of caramel sauce or nut butter if you like. Enjoy your fresh, tasty breakfast!
Can I Use Frozen Apples for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just thaw the frozen apples beforehand and drain any excess liquid to avoid making the oats too watery. Fresh apples do provide a nice crunch, but frozen works well in a pinch.
Can I Prepare More Than One Serving at a Time?
Definitely! Overnight oats are easy to make in bulk. Simply multiply the ingredients and divide into separate jars or containers for each serving. They keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How Do I Store Leftover Overnight Oats?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for about 3 days. Stir before eating and add a splash of milk if the oats have thickened too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Swap the Greek yogurt for a plant-based yogurt like coconut or almond, and use a plant-based milk. Also, choose maple syrup instead of honey to keep it fully vegan-friendly.
