Gingerbread Overnight Oats are a cozy breakfast treat! Made with oats, milk, and warm spices like ginger and cinnamon, they taste just like holiday cookies.
These oats soak overnight, so they’re super creamy in the morning. I love topping mine with a drizzle of honey and some nuts for a nice crunch. Eating sweets for breakfast? Yes, please! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These oats are great for overnight recipes. They absorb liquid well, giving you a creamy texture. You can switch them with quick oats if you’re in a hurry, but avoid steel-cut oats; they need longer to soak.
Milk: Use any milk you like—dairy, almond, oat, or soy all work well here. If you want more creaminess, try coconut milk.
Greek Yogurt: This is optional, but if you include it, it adds protein and makes your oats extra creamy. You can swap it with a dairy-free yogurt or leave it out entirely for a lighter version.
Molasses: This adds a deep sweetness and that traditional gingerbread flavor. If you don’t have it, substitute with dark brown sugar for a similar taste.
Spices: Ground ginger and cinnamon are key for that gingerbread flavor. If you only have gingerbread spice mix, that can work too! Adjust depending on how spicy you’d like it.
How Do I Make Sure My Overnight Oats Are Perfectly Creamy?
To achieve a creamy texture, the right balance of liquid and oats is important. Here are some tips:
- Mix the oats well with liquid ingredients to ensure even soaking.
- Adjust the thickness in the morning. If they feel too thick, just add a touch of milk to loosen them up.
- Let them soak overnight, or at least 4 hours to allow the oats to soften properly.
Enjoy your gingerbread overnight oats, rich in flavor and just as cozy as your favorite holiday treat! 🍂
Gingerbread Overnight Oats Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
- Mini gingerbread cookies for garnish
- Fresh or frozen cranberries for garnish
- Additional cinnamon for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll want to let the oats soak in the fridge overnight, or at least for 4 hours. Perfect for a quick breakfast the next morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl or jar, combine the rolled oats, milk, and Greek yogurt if you’re using it. This mix is the foundation of your overnight oats, providing both texture and flavor.
2. Add Sweetness and Spice:
Stir in the molasses, maple syrup or honey, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything well until it’s thoroughly combined. This is where the magic of gingerbread flavor begins!
3. Let It Soak:
Cover the bowl or jar with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours. This soaking time allows the oats to absorb all those wonderful flavors and soften to perfection.
4. Check the Consistency:
In the morning, take a moment to stir the oats. If they seem too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen them to your liking. Creamy oats are the best oats!
5. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the oats to a serving glass or bowl if they aren’t already. Top with a dollop of whipped cream if desired, then add a mini gingerbread cookie and a handful of fresh or frozen cranberries for color and crunch. Don’t forget to dust with a little extra cinnamon for a lovely aroma.
6. Enjoy!
Now, grab a spoon and dig into your delicious, cozy gingerbread overnight oats! A delightful way to start your day with the flavors of the holiday season.
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but they may result in a softer texture. Keep in mind that they will soak up liquid more quickly, so adjust the liquid amount slightly if needed.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Simply use a plant-based milk (like almond or coconut) and replace Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt or omit it altogether. The recipe will still be delicious and creamy!
How Do I Store Leftover Overnight Oats?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give them a good stir before enjoying them again. You may want to add a bit of milk to restore creaminess.
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Yes! Feel free to customize your oats with other toppings like nuts, seeds, dried fruit, or fresh banana slices. Get creative and make it your own!