These Brown Sugar Cinnamon Overnight Oats are a warm hug in a jar! Made with oats, creamy milk, and a sprinkle of cinnamon, they are sweet and comforting.
The best part? You prepare them the night before, so breakfast is ready when you are. I love topping mine with fresh fruit for extra yum! 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These oats are the star of overnight oats. They soak up the liquids overnight for a soft texture. If you have quick oats, those will work too, but they may get mushier.
Milk: Use any milk you like! Dairy, almond, soy, or oat milk are all great choices. If you’re looking for lower calories, unsweetened almond or cashew milk are good substitutes.
Greek Yogurt: This ingredient adds creaminess and protein. If you prefer a dairy-free version, swap it for coconut yogurt or just leave it out – the oats will still be delicious!
Brown Sugar: This gives a lovely sweetness and depth of flavor. If you’re trying to reduce sugar, consider using a bit of maple syrup or honey instead.
Apples: Fresh diced apples are best for crunch. If they are out of season, you can use canned apple pie filling or apple sauce.
How Do I Make the Apples Topping Perfect?
Making the apple topping can elevate your overnight oats with rich flavors. Follow these steps for amazing sautéed apples:
- Heat a small skillet over medium heat with a pat of butter or a splash of oil.
- Add your diced apples and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often until they begin to soften.
- Sprinkle in cinnamon and brown sugar (to taste) as they cook. Keep stirring!
- Cook until the apples are tender and caramelized but not mushy, about 5-7 minutes.
This quick cooking technique brings out sweetness and creates a delicious topping for your overnight oats!
How to Make Brown Sugar 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 (optional, for creaminess)
- 1-2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup diced apples or apple compote
- 2 tbsp chopped pecans or walnuts
- Cinnamon sticks (for garnish, optional)
- Maple syrup (optional, for drizzling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes just about 10 minutes to prepare, and then you let it chill overnight in the fridge. You’ll have a delicious breakfast ready for you in the morning, all set to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a jar or a container, start by adding the rolled oats, milk, and Greek yogurt (if you’re using it). Then, sprinkle in the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together well, ensuring the oats are fully coated.
2. Let Them Soak:
Seal the jar tightly and place it in your refrigerator. Let the oats soak for at least 6 hours or preferably overnight. This helps the oats absorb the liquid and flavors, making them ready to eat in the morning.
3. Prepare the Apple Topping:
If you’re making your apple topping fresh, you can do this in the morning. Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the diced apples along with a sprinkle of cinnamon and brown sugar. Sauté the apples for about 5-7 minutes until they’re soft and slightly caramelized. If you’re using apple compote, you can skip this step!
4. Assemble and Serve:
Take the soaked oats out of the fridge. Layer the warm apple mixture (or apple compote) on top of the oats. Then, sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts over the apples for a delightful crunch.
5. Garnish:
If you like, add a cinnamon stick for decoration. Drizzle a little maple syrup on top for extra sweetness if desired.
6. Enjoy:
Now, your Brown Sugar Cinnamon Overnight Oats are ready! Enjoy them cold or let them sit for a few minutes to warm them up a bit. Every spoonful will be a comforting blend of cinnamon and brown sugar deliciousness!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but keep in mind they will result in a much softer and creamier texture since they absorb liquid more quickly. If you prefer a bit of chewiness, stick with rolled oats!
What If I Don’t Have Greek Yogurt?
No worries! You can simply leave it out. The recipe will still work perfectly fine without it. Alternatively, you can use any other yogurt you have on hand or swap it for an additional splash of milk for creaminess.
How Long Do Leftover Oats Last in the Fridge?
Leftover overnight oats can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give them a good stir before eating, and you might want to add a splash of milk to loosen them up if they’ve thickened!
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. Fresh berries, nut butter, seeds, or even dark chocolate chips would all make delicious additions to your overnight oats!
