Enjoy delicious creamy cinnamon overnight oats made with 5 ingredients and your choice of milk. This gluten-free, vegan-friendly breakfast is naturally sweet and perfect for starting your day right—no bananas needed!
The best cinnamon overnight oats recipe
Overnight oats never disappoint! While I adore peanut butter banana overnight oats and protein overnight oats, there’s something special about these creamy cinnamon overnight oats. They taste list a cinnamon roll and are especially great for kids, without the need for protein powder or yogurt.
These cinnamon overnight oats are super creamy and have the best warm cinnamon flavor. It honestly reminds me of Fall and makes me want to curl up on the couch with a blanket and a book. They’re also healthy, gluten-free, vegan, refined sughar-free, and dairy-free. That’s a mouthfull, but this overnight oats recipe fits all diets.
With just five simple ingredients, these oats are both easy and budget-friendly. Simply mix everything in a jar and let them soak overnight—a breeze for cooks of any level.
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself reaching for these oats as a dessert option too! Perfect for busy schedules, they’re the ultimate grab-and-go breakfast, snack, or indulgent treat. I cannot wait to hear what you think of this recipe!
Why you’ll love this meal prep recipe:
- 5 Minutes: Easily whip this up for meal prep.
- Creamy: These overnight oats are thick and creamy.
- Cinnamon Roll: They have a strong cinnamon flavor.
- 5 Ingredients: You only need 5 ingredients to make them.
- Healthy: These overnight oats are healthy and nourishing.
- Dairy-Free: There is no yogurt in this recipe.
- Gluten-Free & Vegan: Such an easy recipe that fits all diets.
- On the Go: An ideal breakfast or snack for busy people.
- Kid-Approved: Kids will love them; I’ve tested them!
- Try these peanut butter banana overnight oats next!
Ingredients needed
You only need five basic ingredients to make these cinnamon overnight oats. They’re customizable, creamy, flavorful, gluten-free, fiber-rich, and secretly healthy. Here is a list of everything you need so you are prepared:
- Milk: I like using unsweetened almond milk, but you can use skim milk, 2%, oat milk, cashew milk, or coconut milk.
- Rolled Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats are best for overnight oats recipes. Avoid steel-cut oats at all costs, but you can use quick oats if needed; the texture will just be softer.
- Chia Seeds: For extra omega 3’s. Alternatively, you can use hemp hearts or leave them off.
- Maple Syrup: Adds sweetness. Substitute with honey if desired.
- Cinnamon: Adds all the flavor. Use 1 to 1.5 teaspoons, depending on preference.
- Vanilla Extract: Optional, but enhances the flavor of the oats.
Kitchen tools needed
I love easy recipes, and these cinnamon-flavored overnight oats only take 5 minutes and use minimal kitchen utensils. Here is a list of everything you need to make this recipe successfully:
- Mason Jars or Sealable Tupperware
- Spoon or Fork
- Measuring Tools: 1/2 teaspoon, 1 teaspoon, 1 tablespoon, 1/4 cup, and 1/2 cup.
How to make cinnamon overnight oats
These cinnamon overnight oats come together in three easy steps in under 5 minutes. They’re super creamy, healthy, and made with just five ingredients. Follow these straightforward instructions, complete with pictures, for the best cinnamon overnight oats. Any level cook can make them!
Step 1:
In a sealable mason jar or small container, combine the milk, rolled oats, chia seeds (if using), and maple syrup. Stir well with a spoon until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed, ensuring that all oats are submerged in the milk.
Step 2:
Then, add the cinnamon and vanilla extract to the mixture, stirring until fully combined.
Step 3:
Seal the jar or container with a lid and place it in the refrigerator to soak overnight or for at least 6 hours, up to 5 days.
Step 4:
When ready to serve, top the oats with sliced bananas, walnuts, or any desired fruit. For added sweetness, drizzle with a dash of maple syrup, honey, or add a dollop of peanut butter if desired. Enjoy chilled!
Expert recipe tips for overnight oats:
- Liquid Ratio: Use equal parts oats and liquid for a thick and creamy consistency. Adjust the liquid amount based on how thick or thin you prefer your oats.
- Sweeteners: Choose natural sweeteners like maple syrup, honey, or mashed ripe bananas instead of refined sugars.
- Refrigeration: After assembling, tightly cover your container and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours to let the oats absorb the liquid and flavors.
- Customization: Experiment with different flavors and toppings to make your overnight oats unique to your taste preferences. Yogurt, nut butter, berries, and banana slices are all great options.
- Temperature: You can enjoy your overnight oats cold from the fridge (my preference) or warm them up in the microwave or on the stove.
- Stir Before Eating: Before digging in, give your overnight oats a quick stir, and add a splash of milk if you prefer a looser texture.
Easy ingredient substitutions & variations:
- Almond Milk: While unsweetened almond milk is recommended, you can substitute it with other types of milk, such as oat milk, skim milk, cashew milk, or 2% milk.
- Rolled Oats: You can use quick oats, but be aware that the texture will be softer compared to using old-fashioned rolled oats. Avoid using steel-cut oats.
- Chia Seeds: If you don’t have chia seeds on hand or prefer an alternative, you can use flax seeds or hemp hearts. Alternatively, you can omit the seeds altogether.
- Add Protein Powder: Boost the protein content of your overnight oats by adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder. This is a great option for those looking to increase their protein intake.
- Add Yogurt: Incorporate yogurt into your overnight oats for added creaminess, protein, and probiotics. I like vanilla or plain for this cinnamon overnight oats recipe.
- Add Nut Butter: For a rich and nutty flavor, stir in a spoonful of your favorite nut butter, such as almond butter, peanut butter, or cashew butter. This will also increase the protein and healthy fat content of your oats.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are overnight oats?
Overnight oats are like regular oatmeal recipes, but instead of cooking, we soak them. When rolled oats are soaked in milk, they become soft as they absorb the liquid. This makes them easier to digest compared to cooked oatmeal because the fiber and starch break down during soaking.
Can I use quick oats for overnight oats?
Rolled oats are best for overnight oats; however, you can use quick oats too. Please note that the texture will be softer, but the overnight oats will still be delicious.
Can I use steel-cut oats for overnight oats?
No, do not use steel-cut oats when making overnight oats; it will not yield the same creamy oats.
Is this overnight oats recipe vegan?
Yes, these cinnamon overnight oats are vegan since we use almond milk.
Are these cinnamon overnight oats gluten-free?
Yes, these overnight oats are gluten-free. Just remember to buy certified gluten-free oats!
Is overnight oatmeal healthy?
Absolutely! Overnight oatmeal is a nutritious choice for several reasons. Firstly, it’s made with simple ingredients that provide sustained energy and keep you feeling satisfied. Secondly, using almond milk not only adds creaminess but also offers calcium, making these cinnamon overnight oats suitable for vegans. Lastly, the addition of chia seeds provides a boost of omega-3 fatty acids, contributing to overall heart health.
Can I make a larger batch of these oats for meal prep?
Absolutely! Feel free to double or triple the recipe to make a larger batch for meal prep. Just be sure to store them in individual containers or jars for easy grab-and-go breakfasts throughout the week.
Can I eat overnight oats warm?
While I personally enjoy my overnight oats chilled, you can absolutely enjoy them warm if that’s your preference. Simply transfer them into a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 30 to 60 seconds until they reach your desired temperature.
How long do these oats last in the refrigerator?
These overnight oats can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. However, for the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to consume them within 2-3 days.
If you loved this recipe, try these oat-based recipes next!
- Protein Overnight Oats
- Protein Chocolate Chip Baked Oats
- Vegan Baked Oatmeal
- Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats
- Baked Oats without Banana
- Peanut Butter Baked Oatmeal
- Banana Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies
Did you make this recipe?
If you make this recipe, be sure to comment and rate it down below. Also, don’t forget to tag me @healthfulblondie on Instagram and use the hashtag #healthfulblondie so I can see your delicious creation and share it with my followers!
Best Cinnamon Overnight Oats
Ingredients
- ½ cup milk, oat, almond, regular (plain or vanilla)
- ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats, gluten-free or regular
- 1 tbsp chia seeds, optional
- 1 tbsp real maple syrup
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a sealable mason jar or small container, combine the milk, rolled oats, chia seeds (if using), and maple syrup. Stir well with a spoon until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed, ensuring that all oats are submerged in the milk.
- Add the cinnamon and vanilla extract to the mixture, stirring until fully combined.
- Seal the jar or container with a lid and place it in the refrigerator to soak overnight or for at least 6 hours, up to 5 days.
- When ready to serve, top the oats with sliced bananas, walnuts, or any desired fruit. For added sweetness, drizzle with a dash of maple syrup, honey, or add a dollop of peanut butter if desired. Enjoy chilled!
Notes
Nutrition
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Nick says
Easy and so delicious!
Madison says
This recipe is what got me interested in overnight oats. It’s now a daily thing and I will never forget this delicious mix.