Gingerbread Overnight Oats are a cozy breakfast treat that brings the flavors of gingerbread cookies to your morning! Just mix oats with milk, yogurt, and spices, and let them sit overnight.
It’s a fun way to feel festive while getting your day started right. I love topping mine with a sprinkle of nuts or a drizzle of honey for some extra yum! Perfect for busy mornings! 🎄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Use rolled oats for a great texture. Steel-cut oats will take more time to soak, so they’re not ideal for overnight recipes. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, make sure your oats are certified gluten-free.
Dairy or Plant-Based Milk: Any milk works! Almond, oat, or coconut milk would be tasty alternatives. Each brings a unique flavor, so try what you like best or what you have on hand.
Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein. For a dairy-free option, coconut yogurt is a great substitute. Just check the sweetness level; you might want to adjust your added sweetener accordingly!
Molasses: This gives the signature gingerbread flavor. If you don’t have molasses, brown sugar or honey can work in a pinch, but the flavor won’t be quite the same.
Spices: Ground spices are key; don’t skip the ginger and cinnamon! You can mix in a bit of pumpkin pie spice if you like a deeper, warmer flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Oats are the Right Consistency?
Getting the oatmeal to the right thickness is important for a great breakfast. If your oats seem too thick in the morning, simply add a splash of your chosen milk until you reach your desired creaminess.
- Start by mixing the oats with the milk and yogurt thoroughly.
- Keep in mind that chia seeds absorb liquid. If you use them, expect a thicker texture.
- If you want them creamier, stirring in a little extra yogurt or adding more milk before serving can do wonders!
Gingerbread Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt
- 1 tbsp molasses
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1 tsp chia seeds (optional, for thickness)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (adjust sweetness to taste)
- Pinch of salt
- Whipped cream or coconut cream, for topping
- Gingerbread cookie, for garnish
- Fresh cranberries or dried fruit, for garnish
- Extra rolled oats, for sprinkling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy recipe takes just about 10 minutes to prepare, and then you let it chill in the fridge overnight. In the morning, you’ll have a tasty and filling breakfast ready to go in 5 more minutes! So, in total, it’s only about 15 minutes of work!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
Start by taking a medium-sized bowl or a mason jar. Add the rolled oats, milk (choose your favorite), and Greek yogurt. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and the oats are fully coated in the liquid.
2. Add in the Flavorings:
Now, it’s time to spice it up! Add in the molasses, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and chia seeds if you’re using them. Don’t forget the maple syrup or honey and a pinch of salt. Mix all these ingredients thoroughly until everything is nicely blended.
3. Chill Out:
Cover your bowl with a lid or wrap the jar with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge. Let it chill overnight, or at least for 6 hours, so the oats can absorb all those delicious flavors.
4. Morning Prep:
When you wake up, give your oats a good stir. If you find they’re a bit thicker than you’d like, just add a splash of milk and stir until you reach your desired creamy consistency.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer your delicious gingerbread oats into a serving glass or bowl. Top it with a generous dollop of whipped cream or coconut cream for that festive touch. Garnish it with a gingerbread cookie, a sprinkle of extra rolled oats, a dusting of cinnamon, and add some cranberries or dried fruit for extra sweetness.
6. Dig In!
Now, take a moment to appreciate your creation! Serve your Gingerbread Overnight Oats chilled and enjoy the warm, spiced flavors that bring the spirit of the season to your breakfast.
Can I Substitute the Milk in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any type of milk you prefer, whether dairy or plant-based. Almond milk, oat milk, and soy milk are all great alternatives. Just keep in mind that flavored varieties may alter the overall taste.
What Can I Use Instead of Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use regular yogurt, but it will alter the consistency slightly. For a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt or almond yogurt. Make sure to choose a brand that is thick to maintain the creamy texture!
Is it Possible to Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare these overnight oats up to 3 days in advance. Just keep them stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This makes for a quick grab-and-go breakfast during busy mornings!
How Can I Add More Flavor to My Oats?
There are plenty of ways to enhance the flavor! You can add a dash of vanilla extract, a sprinkle of nutmeg, or even some chopped nuts for crunch. Mixing in raisins or apples also gives a great pop of sweetness! Experiment and find your favorite combination!