Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats are a cozy, make-ahead breakfast that tastes like a spoonful of apple pie—yet takes just minutes to assemble. This no-cook recipe is perfect for busy mornings, meal prep lovers, and anyone who craves a wholesome, satisfying start to the day. With simple ingredients like rolled oats, fresh apples, warm cinnamon, and your milk of choice, you’ll wake up to a creamy, flavorful breakfast that’s ready the moment you are. This recipe is customizable, kid-friendly, and excellent for fall, but delicious all year long.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 mins (includes chilling)
- Servings: 1
- Yield: 1 jar of overnight oats
Ingredients
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- ½ medium apple, finely diced
- 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds or ground flaxseed (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Directions
- Combine the base ingredients:
Add rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, cinnamon, vanilla, sweetener, and salt to a medium jar or airtight container. Stir until the mixture is well combined. - Add the apples:
Fold in the diced apple and chia seeds (if using). These help naturally thicken the oats overnight. - Seal and chill:
Cover the jar and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, though overnight is best for the creamiest texture. - Stir and serve:
In the morning, give the oats a quick stir. Add more milk if you prefer a looser texture. - Add toppings (optional):
Finish with fresh apple slices, a sprinkle of cinnamon, chopped nuts, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a spoonful of nut butter.
Tips & Best Practices
- Use rolled oats—not instant oats—to ensure the right texture. Steel-cut oats do not soften enough overnight.
- Sweetness changes overnight: Oats mellow flavors as they sit, so don’t be afraid to taste and adjust sweetness in the morning.
- Apple choice matters: Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala apples provide the ideal sweetness and crunch.
- For extra creaminess: Add an additional spoonful of Greek yogurt or a splash of vanilla creamer.
- For warm oats: Microwave 30–45 seconds in the morning for a cozy, apple-pie flavor.
- Meal prep tip: These oats last up to 4 days in the refrigerator—just add the apple fresh if storing longer than one night.
Nutrition Facts (per serving) — Estimated Values
- Calories: 325
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 19g
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 4mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Potassium: 330mg
Conclusion
Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats offer a wholesome, comforting breakfast that fits effortlessly into any busy lifestyle. Every spoonful blends creamy oats with the natural sweetness of apples and the warmth of cinnamon—creating a flavorful, nutrient-packed meal that’s ready whenever you are. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, creating a fall-inspired breakfast, or simply craving something delicious and easy, this recipe is a must-try. Enjoy it chilled, warmed, topped with nuts, or kept classic—either way, you’ll have a nourishing start to your morning.
