These tasty coffee cake overnight oats are the perfect mix of creamy and crunchy. Made with oats, coffee, and a sprinkle of cinnamon, they give you a sweet morning boost without any fuss!
I love waking up to these delicious oats already waiting for me in the fridge. It’s like having dessert for breakfast—who wouldn’t want that? Just grab a spoon and enjoy! ☕️🥄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: These oats are best for overnight oats due to their texture. Quick oats can work, but they might get too mushy. For gluten-free needs, look for certified gluten-free oats.
Milk: Any milk works here! I often use almond or oat milk for a nutty flavor. Coconut milk could add a creamy richness, or just stick to regular cow’s milk if that’s your go-to.
Brewed Coffee: Using cooled brewed coffee gives the oats that delicious coffee cake vibe. For a caffeine-free option, you could replace this with brewed tea or simply use extra milk instead.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Both sweeteners work well for that hint of sweetness. If you prefer a sugar-free option, try using stevia or a sugar-free syrup. Personal preference: I love the depth that maple syrup adds!
Pecans: These add great texture and a nutty flavor. If you’re allergic, feel free to substitute with walnuts or sunflower seeds!
How Do You Make the Perfect Overnight Oats?
The key to making overnight oats is in the mixing and layering! Start by mixing your oats with the wet ingredients to ensure every bite is flavorful. Using cooled coffee enhances the taste without making the oats too soggy.
- Always give your oats a good stir to evenly combine all ingredients.
- Layering brown sugar and pecans at the bottom adds a lovely texture similar to coffee cake.
- Seal your jar tightly; this prevents spills and maintains freshness during chilling.
- In the morning, if the mixture seems thick, stir in a splash of milk to get your desired consistency.
Enjoying these oats in the morning is a breeze—grab your jar and go!
How to Make Coffee Cake Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup brewed coffee, cooled
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp chopped pecans
- 1 tbsp mini chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks (optional)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, plus a good night’s rest in the fridge! Ideally, you’ll want to let the oats sit overnight (or at least 6 hours) so they soak up all that wonderful flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
Start by grabbing a jar or a bowl. In it, combine the rolled oats, milk, cooled brewed coffee, vanilla extract, maple syrup (or honey), ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Use a spoon to stir well until all the ingredients are perfectly blended together.
2. Add the Sweet Layers:
Next, it’s time for the fun part! If you like, add the brown sugar and chopped pecans to the bottom of your serving jar. This creates a delicious coffee cake crumb layer. Alternatively, you can sprinkle them on top later if you prefer that crunchy finish.
3. Combine Everything:
Once the layers are set, pour the oat and coffee mixture gently over the brown sugar and pecans layer. This way, as it soaks, the flavors will all meld beautifully together!
4. Top It Off:
If you want an extra touch of sweetness, sprinkle the mini chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks on top. These add a little indulgence, but feel free to skip them if you want to keep it a bit lighter.
5. Chill Overnight:
Seal your jar or cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and tuck it away in the fridge. Let it chill overnight (or for at least 6 hours) so the oats have time to soak up all that creamy goodness.
6. Enjoy in the Morning:
Time for breakfast! In the morning, give the oats a good stir to mix everything together. If it seems a bit thick, add a splash of milk to make it creamier. You can enjoy it cold right out of the jar or transfer it to a bowl.
7. Optional Toppings:
For an extra treat, add more chopped pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top before digging in.
This Coffee Cake Overnight Oats recipe brings the warm, cozy flavors of coffee cake to your breakfast table in an easy and nutritious way. Perfect for busy mornings—enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats, but keep in mind that the texture will be different! Instant oats tend to soak up liquid more quickly, so they might become mushy. If you prefer a chewier texture, stick with rolled oats.
Can I Make These Overnight Oats Vegan?
Absolutely! Simply use plant-based milk (like almond, oat, or soy milk) and swap honey for maple syrup. This way, your overnight oats remain entirely vegan and just as delicious!
How Long Do Leftovers Last?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir and add a splash of milk if it thickens too much.
Can I Customize the Sweetness Level?
Of course! Adjust the amount of maple syrup or honey to suit your taste. If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the amount or omit it entirely; the coffee and brown sugar provide enough flavor on their own!