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Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats - A Cozy, Make-Ahead Breakfast

Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings 2 servings

Ingredients

  • Old-fashioned rolled oats (not quick oats or steel-cut)
  • Milk of choice (dairy or unsweetened almond, oat, soy, or cashew)
  • Plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt)
  • Apple (crisp varieties like Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, or Pink Lady)
  • Maple syrup or honey
  • Chia seeds (for thickness and extra fiber)
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Pure vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • Optional toppings: chopped walnuts or pecans, raisins, nut butter, extra cinnamon, extra apple

Instructions

  • Choose your container: Use a 12–16 ounce jar or lidded container. A wider opening makes stirring easier.
  • Measure the base: Add 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1 tablespoon chia seeds, and a small pinch of salt to the jar.
  • Add the liquid and creaminess: Pour in 1/2 cup milk and 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt. This combo gives the oats a rich, pudding-like texture.
  • Flavor it: Stir in 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Adjust the sweetness to taste.
  • Prep the apple: Core and chop 1/2 to 1 small apple into small cubes. Leave the skin on for color and fiber. Add most of it to the jar, saving a few pieces for topping.
  • Stir well: Mix everything thoroughly so the chia seeds don’t clump and the spices are evenly distributed.
  • Chill overnight: Seal the container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally 8–12. The oats and chia will absorb the liquid and thicken.
  • Finish and serve: In the morning, give it a good stir. If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk. Top with the reserved apple, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a handful of chopped nuts for crunch.
  • Optional warm-up: If you prefer it warm, microwave for 30–60 seconds, then stir. Add more milk as needed.