Eggnog Overnight Oats are a festive twist on a healthy breakfast! With creamy yogurt, oats, and a hint of nutmeg, they taste just like holiday eggnog.
These oats are prepped the night before, so you can grab breakfast on the go. I love making a big batch and enjoying them throughout the week. Who says breakfast can’t be merry? 🎄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Use rolled oats for a creamy texture that’s perfect for overnight soaking. If you want a gluten-free option, look for certified gluten-free oats.
Eggnog: You can use store-bought eggnog for convenience, but homemade eggnog is a great alternative that can be tailored to your taste. If you prefer non-dairy, look for oat or almond milk versions.
Milk: Any milk works here! I often use almond or oat milk for a lighter option, but whole milk adds extra creaminess if that’s your preference.
Greek Yogurt: Vanilla Greek yogurt adds flavor and creaminess. If you need a dairy-free option, opt for coconut or almond yogurt, which works nicely in this recipe.
Syrup: While maple syrup adds a nice flavor, honey is a good substitute if you’re not vegan. You can also skip sweeteners if you prefer to keep it less sweet.
How Do I Achieve Perfect Overnight Oats?
Making overnight oats is super simple once you get the hang of it! The key is to ensure everything is well combined so the oats soak up the liquid smoothly. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by mixing the oats with your eggnog and milk, creating a creamy base.
- Incorporate the Greek yogurt for added creaminess, and stir until smooth.
- Add your spices and sweeteners. Mixing them in well ensures they distribute evenly throughout the oats.
- Be sure to cover your container tightly before refrigerating to prevent any drying out.
- In the morning, give the oats a stir. A little extra milk can help get your desired consistency if it’s too thick.
This method guarantees you’ll have deliciously creamy and flavorful overnight oats ready to enjoy!
Eggnog Overnight Oats Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup vanilla Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Toppings (optional):
- Chopped pecans or walnuts
- Additional oats
- Ground cinnamon or nutmeg
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful breakfast takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and you’ll want to let it chill in the fridge for at least 4-6 hours or overnight. So with just a little planning, you can wake up to a tasty, ready-made meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start Mixing the Base:
In a mason jar or a bowl, begin by combining the rolled oats, eggnog, milk, and Greek yogurt. Use a spoon to stir everything together until well mixed. You want all those flavors to blend nicely!
2. Add the Sweetness and Spices:
Next, add in the maple syrup (or honey) for sweetness, along with the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and a small pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Refrigerate Overnight:
Now it’s time to cover your jar or bowl with a lid or some plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator overnight, or at least for 4-6 hours, to let the oats soak up the delicious flavors and soften to perfection.
4. Morning Stir and Adjust:
When morning arrives, take the jar out and give the oats a good stir. If it seems too thick for your liking, just add a splash of milk to loosen it up until it reaches your desired consistency.
5. Top It Off:
Before you dig in, feel free to add your favorite toppings! sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top, add a few extra oats, and finish with a dash of ground cinnamon or nutmeg. This adds a nice crunch and extra flavor!
6. Enjoy Your Creation:
Now, you’re ready to enjoy your Eggnog Overnight Oats! You can eat it directly from the jar for convenience, or transfer it to a bowl for a nice presentation.
These Eggnog Overnight Oats are a wonderfully festive and healthy start to your day, combining the warm spices of eggnog with creamy oats. Happy holidays and enjoy!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
It’s best to stick with rolled oats for this recipe, as instant oats will become mushy and lose their texture during soaking. If you’re in a pinch, you can reduce the soaking time to about 30 minutes instead of overnight.
What Can I Substitute for Eggnog?
If you don’t have eggnog on hand, you can use a mixture of milk, cream, and a pinch of nutmeg and cinnamon to replicate the flavor. Just use 1/2 cup of this mix to replace the eggnog.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The oats may thicken again, so add a splash of milk when reheating or before eating to restore creaminess.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Simply use a plant-based eggnog and a dairy-free yogurt alternative like coconut or almond yogurt. Maple syrup is already vegan, so you’re all set!