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This cinnamon roll overnight oats is a perfect way to wake up to creamy, flavorful breakfast without any morning rush. It captures the warm, comforting taste of cinnamon rolls while providing a nutritious start to the day that you prepare the night before.
I first made these after craving cinnamon rolls but wanting something lighter and more portable. It quickly became my favorite quick breakfast that feels like a treat but fuels me all morning.
Ingredients
- Oats: (quick, rolled or minute) provide wholesome whole grains and fiber. Rolled oats give a richer texture while quick oats create a smoother consistency.
- Chia seeds: add thickness and extra nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids. Look for freshly sealed packs for best freshness.
- Vanilla protein powder: boosts protein content especially useful for active days or post workouts. Choose a good quality brand without too many additives.
- Cinnamon: offers warm sweetness and comforting spice reminiscent of classic cinnamon rolls. Fresh ground cinnamon is best.
- Salt: balances the flavors and enhances sweetness so use fine sea salt.
- Milk of choice: helps soften the oats overnight and adds creaminess. Use dairy, almond, oat or soy depending on your taste or dietary needs.
- Maple syrup: is a natural sweetener that pairs beautifully with cinnamon. Adjust quantity for your ideal sweetness.
- Plain Greek yogurt: creates a creamy texture and adds tang while boosting protein. Full fat or low fat works fine.
- Vanilla extract: deepens the flavor profile and makes the dish feel indulgent.
- Icing sugar: creates a delicate sweet topping that melts into the yogurt topping. Use sparingly to avoid too much sweetness.
Instructions
- Build The Oat Base:
- In a small jar or container, combine the oats, chia seeds, vanilla protein powder if using, cinnamon, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients well makes sure every bite has balanced flavor.
- Mix The Wet Ingredients:
- Add the milk of your choice, maple syrup, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract to the oats mixture. Stir thoroughly until fully combined so every oat is coated.
- Chill To Thicken:
- Cover the jar and place it in the refrigerator for at least three hours, preferably overnight. This resting time allows the oats and chia seeds to absorb moisture and soften into a creamy consistency.
- Prepare The Yogurt Topping:
- Whisk together Greek yogurt, icing sugar, and a splash of milk. Keep this in the fridge until morning to have a chilled, smooth drizzle to finish your oats.
- Serve With Flair:
- Top your oats with additional cinnamon and drizzle the yogurt topping over just before eating. This adds a lovely layered texture and sweet touch.
Cinnamon is my favorite part of this recipe. It instantly brings the cozy feeling of baked cinnamon rolls without the effort. I remember making a batch for a road trip and everyone loved the flavor and convenience of grabbing a jar on the go.
Storage Tips
Store your prepared overnight oats covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time but texture may become slightly softer. Keep the yogurt topping separate until ready to serve for best freshness.
Ingredient Swaps
You can swap chia seeds for ground flaxseeds or even hemp seeds for a different nutrient boost. If you do not have vanilla protein powder, add an extra spoon of Greek yogurt for protein. Coconut yogurt works well for a dairy free option.
Serving Ideas
Top with sliced fresh apples or toasted nuts for crunch. A handful of raisins or dried cranberries adds pleasant bursts of sweetness. Drizzle a bit of warmed almond butter on top for added richness.
Seasonal Twists
Add pumpkin pie spice in autumn instead of just cinnamon for extra warmth. Stir in mashed berries or stone fruit in summer for a fresh twist. In cooler months consider a splash of coffee or chai brewed milk instead of plain.
This overnight oats recipe offers a delicious and convenient way to start your day with cinnamon roll flavor and wholesome nutrition.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → Can I use different types of oats for this dish?
Yes, quick, rolled, or minute oats work well and influence the texture; rolled oats yield a thicker consistency, while quick oats are smoother.
- → What milk alternatives are suitable for soaking the oats?
Any milk of choice can be used including dairy, almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk to tailor the flavor and dietary preference.
- → How does the chia seed affect the texture?
Chia seeds absorb liquid and help thicken the mixture, adding a slight gel-like texture and extra nutrition.
- → Can I prepare this the morning of serving?
While it’s best to let the oats soak at least 3 hours, overnight soaking improves creaminess and flavor melding; a minimum 3 hour chill is recommended.
- → Is the yogurt topping essential?
The yogurt topping adds creaminess and balance to the sweetness and spice, but can be omitted or replaced with alternatives as desired.