Cherry Overnight Oats are a yummy and easy breakfast! Just mix oats with milk, yogurt, and sweet cherries, then let them sit overnight. By morning, they’re creamy and ready to go!
Honestly, waking up to these tasty oats feels like a treat. I love adding a drizzle of honey on top. It’s like having dessert for breakfast! 🍒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Use rolled oats for the best texture. If you’re short on time, quick oats work too, but they may turn mushy. Steel-cut oats are not suitable for overnight soaking as they take longer to cook.
Milk: Regular dairy milk is great, but almond, oat, or soy milk can work well for a tasty plant-based option. I enjoy almond milk for its subtle nutty flavor!
Yogurt: Plain or vanilla yogurt adds creaminess. If you’re plant-based, opt for coconut yogurt or almond yogurt as a substitute. Greek yogurt will give it a thicker texture.
Fresh Cherries: Cherries are delicious, but you could also use other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or peaches. Depending on the fruit, you might need to adjust the sweetness.
Sweeteners: Honey is yummy, but if you’re vegan, maple syrup is a perfect choice. Agave syrup also works well. Adjust the amount based on how sweet you like it.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Soak for My Overnight Oats?
Getting the soak just right is key for creamy oats. Combine all your ingredients and make sure the oats are well-covered in liquid to absorb the flavors. Follow these steps:
- Use a container that holds the liquid well; a mason jar is great for this.
- Mix ingredients thoroughly, ensuring oats are submerged.
- Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. This allows the oats to fully absorb moisture, creating a soft texture by morning.
- If your oats seem too thick in the morning, just add a little extra milk to reach your preferred consistency.
This method not only softens the oats but also blends the flavors beautifully!
Cherry Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup plain or vanilla yogurt
- 1/2 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Toppings: additional cherries, rolled oats, and coconut flakes (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, but you’ll need to let the oats soak in the fridge overnight or for at least 6 hours. So, just a little patience, and you’ll wake up to a delicious breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combining the Ingredients:
In a medium bowl or mason jar, mix together the rolled oats, milk, yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Make sure everything is well combined!
2. Adding the Cherries:
Now, gently fold in half of the pitted and halved cherries. This way, you’ll have sweet cherry goodness mixed throughout your oats.
3. Chilling Overnight:
Cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the fridge. Let it sit overnight, or for a minimum of 6 hours. This is when the oats will soak up all that yummy flavor!
4. Morning Stir:
When morning comes, give the mixture a good stir. If your oats seem a little thick, feel free to add a splash of milk to get your desired consistency.
5. Topping It Off:
Top your oats with the remaining fresh cherries, a sprinkle of rolled oats, and some coconut flakes if you like. Make it look as delicious as it tastes!
6. Time to Enjoy:
Serve your Cherry Overnight Oats chilled, and dig into this healthy, fruity breakfast! Enjoy each bite!
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While cherries are delightful, you can substitute with other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or peaches. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness based on the fruit’s natural sugar content!
Is It Possible to Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe dairy-free by using almond milk, coconut milk, or any plant-based yogurt. Just ensure that your milk and yogurt alternatives fit your taste preferences!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Overnight Oats?
Leftover Cherry Overnight Oats can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re in an airtight container. Stir well before eating, and add a splash of milk if they seem too thick!
Can I Prep More Than One Serving at a Time?
Definitely! You can scale the recipe to make several jars at once. Just keep the ratios the same, and you’ll have tasty breakfast options ready to go throughout the week!