These Salted Caramel Pretzel Overnight Oats are a fun and tasty breakfast! You get the sweet caramel flavor mixed with salty pretzels, making each bite a little bit exciting.
Seriously, who knew oats could be this yummy? I love prepping them the night before, and in the morning, I just grab a jar and enjoy. It’s like dessert for breakfast! 🍯
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: These are crucial for a chewy texture. If you need a gluten-free option, look for certified gluten-free oats. Quick oats can work, but they may be mushier.
Milk: Any milk will do! Use dairy milk for creaminess or almond or oat milk as a dairy-free alternative. For added flavor, try coconut milk.
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and protein. You can replace it with regular yogurt or a plant-based yogurt if you’re vegan.
Caramel Sauce: If you want to cut down on sugar, use homemade caramel or maple syrup for a healthier option. You can even skip it altogether and flavor with just vanilla instead!
Pretzels: Look for the classic salted pretzels. If you want to avoid gluten, use gluten-free pretzels. You can also substitute with crushed nuts for a different kind of crunch!
What’s the Best Way to Prepare Overnight Oats?
The key to overnight oats is getting the right consistency and flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix all your wet ingredients first (milk, yogurt, caramel, and vanilla) before adding the oats. This prevents clumping.
- Stir in your dry ingredients last—this includes oats, chia seeds, and a pinch of salt. This way, they get evenly coated and absorb the flavors.
- Use a jar with a lid for easy storage. Letting the oats sit overnight allows them to soak up the liquid, creating a creamy texture.
- In the morning, adjust with milk if it appears too thick—stirring well helps with this!
These steps should help you achieve delicious overnight oats that are ready to go in the morning!
Salted Caramel Pretzel Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tablespoon caramel sauce or dulce de leche
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for texture and nutrients)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
- 1/4 cup crushed pretzels, plus a few whole pretzels for garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Extra caramel sauce for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
Making these overnight oats takes about 10 minutes of prep time. Then, you’ll want to let them chill in the fridge overnight, or for at least 6 hours, so the oats soften and absorb all the delicious flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oats Mix:
In a mixing bowl or a jar, combine the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, caramel sauce, chia seeds (if you’re using them), vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and smooth.
2. Add Crunch:
Gently fold in the crushed pretzels and the chopped pecans (if you’re using them). Be careful not to break the pretzels too much; we want to keep that nice crunchy texture!
3. Refrigerate:
Cover your jar or bowl with a lid or some plastic wrap. Place it in the fridge overnight, or for at least 6 hours, so the oats can soak up all the flavors and become wonderfully creamy.
4. The Next Morning:
When you’re ready to enjoy, take the oats out of the fridge and give them a gentle stir. If they seem too thick, just add a splash of milk to loosen them up a bit.
5. Serve and Top:
If you like, transfer the oats to another bowl or keep them in the jar. Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt, sprinkle on some whole pretzels, add more nuts if you like, and drizzle with extra caramel sauce.
6. Dig In!
Enjoy your delicious, creamy, and crunchy Salted Caramel Pretzel Overnight Oats right away. It’s a sweet and salty treat that feels like dessert for breakfast!
This recipe perfectly balances sweet and salty flavors, making it a delightful way to start your day. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare ahead of time!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
While it’s possible to use instant oats, the texture will be softer and mushier compared to rolled oats. If you prefer the classic chewy texture, stick with old-fashioned rolled oats!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, simply swap the Greek yogurt for a plant-based yogurt and use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. You can also choose a vegan caramel sauce to keep it all cruelty-free.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Overnight Oats?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give them a good stir before eating, and add a splash of milk if they’ve thickened up too much!
Can I Add Other Mix-ins or Toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative. You can add fruits like bananas, strawberries, or blueberries, or even stir in some peanut butter for added flavor. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness if you’re adding more ingredients!