These Apple Pie Overnight Oats are a tasty and convenient way to start your day! Packed with oats, apples, and warm spices, they feel like a cozy dessert for breakfast.
Usually, I whip these up the night before. Just mix everything in a jar and let them hang out in the fridge. Waking up to this treat is the best part of my morning! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: I always use rolled oats for the perfect texture. If you’re in a hurry, quick oats work too but may become mushy. Steel-cut oats are an option but will take longer to soak, so keep that in mind.
Chia Seeds: These help thicken the oats and add a nice texture. If you’re allergic or don’t have them, you can skip them or use ground flaxseed as a substitute. Just ensure you adjust the liquid since chia seeds absorb more liquid.
Milk: I like almond milk, but any type of milk (dairy or non-dairy) works fine! For a creamier texture, use whole milk or oat milk. If you’re nut-free, coconut milk can be a great option too.
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and protein. If you’re vegan, opt for coconut or almond yogurt. You could also use just an extra 1/4-cup of milk if you want to keep it simple.
Apples: Choose your favorite apple variety! I love using Granny Smith for their tartness, but Fuji or Gala are sweeter options. If you’re in a pinch, unsweetened applesauce can work too, just reduce the sweetener.
How Do I Get My Apples Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the apples is a vital step that makes these oats taste like apple pie! Here’s how to do it just right:
- Use a good non-stick pan and heat your coconut oil or butter over medium heat.
- When the fat is melted, add the chopped apples right away so they begin to soften without burning.
- Stir in the lemon juice and brown sugar. This balances the sweetness and helps the apples caramelize.
- Keep cooking for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the apples are tender and a little golden. Let them cool slightly before adding to your oats.
Feel free to add walnuts or pecans to the apple mixture for an extra crunch! Just be mindful of the cooking time to keep them a bit crunchy.
Apple Pie Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
For The Apple Topping:
- 1 small apple, chopped (about 1/2 cup)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil or butter
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or coconut sugar (optional)
- Pinch of salt
For Toppings:
- Additional chopped apples
- Cinnamon for sprinkling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious breakfast recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and needs at least 4 hours or overnight to chill. So, it’s perfect for making ahead of time! You’ll wake up to a hearty, tasty meal that feels like a treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Oats:
In a mixing bowl or a mason jar, combine the rolled oats, chia seeds, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together to mix the dry ingredients evenly.
2. Add Wet Ingredients:
Pour in the milk and Greek yogurt. Then, add the maple syrup (or honey) and mix well, ensuring that everything is combined and the oats are coated in the liquid.
3. Refrigerate:
Cover the bowl or jar and place it in the fridge. Let it sit overnight or for at least 4 hours. This will help the oats absorb the liquid and soften nicely.
4. Prepare the Apple Topping:
On the next day, get started on the spiced apple topping. In a small pan, heat the coconut oil (or butter) over medium heat.
5. Cook the Apples:
Add the chopped apple, brown sugar (if you’re using it), and lemon juice. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the apples are soft and a bit caramelized. This is where the magic happens, so let those flavors develop!
6. Cool the Apple Mixture:
Once they’re cooked, remove the pan from the heat and let the apple mixture cool for a few minutes.
7. Assemble and Serve:
To serve, layer the overnight oats in a bowl or glass, followed by the warm (or slightly cooled) apple mixture on top. You can add more chopped apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon to make it even more delightful.
8. Enjoy!
Dig into your apple pie inspired overnight oats! You can enjoy them cold for a refreshing start to your day or warm them up slightly for extra comfort. Either way, it’s a delight!
This recipe is perfect for a single serving, but feel free to double or triple it for meal prepping. Happy eating!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but keep in mind that they may become mushier and have a different texture compared to rolled oats. Adjust the soaking time accordingly—quick oats usually need less time to absorb the liquid.
Is There a Vegan Substitute for Greek Yogurt?
Absolutely! You can substitute Greek yogurt with plant-based yogurt options like coconut, almond, or soy yogurt. They’ll work well to keep the creaminess without dairy.
How Long Do Leftovers Last?
Leftover overnight oats can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If the mixture thickens too much, simply add a splash of milk when you’re ready to eat!
Can I Add Other Toppings or Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize with nuts, seeds, or even dried fruits like raisins or cranberries. For a decadent twist, add a dollop of nut butter or some granola on top!