If you’ve ever wished you could capture the warm, comforting flavor of a cinnamon roll but wanted something quick and healthy for breakfast, this Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats Recipe is about to become your new favorite morning ritual. It combines the cozy spices of cinnamon with the creamy goodness of Greek yogurt and the wholesome texture of oats, all ready for you in just a few simple steps. Whether you’re rushing out the door or enjoying a slow weekend morning, this recipe delivers that sweet, satisfying cinnamon roll essence without any baking or guilt.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats Recipe shines because each ingredient is straightforward yet essential. Every component works together to create the perfect balance of creaminess, sweetness, and spice, resulting in a bowl that feels indulgent but is packed with nutrition.
- ½ cup rolled oats: The foundation of your overnight oats, providing heartiness and a satisfying texture; choose gluten-free oats if needed.
- 3 tablespoons vanilla Greek yogurt: Adds tangy creaminess and boosts protein for a filling start to your day.
- ½ cup milk of choice: This keeps the oats moist and soft, and you can customize it to dairy or any plant-based milk you love.
- ½–1 teaspoon cinnamon: The star spice that brings that unmistakable cinnamon roll warmth and aroma.
- 1 teaspoon chia seeds: A little powerhouse of fiber and omega-3s that also helps thicken the oats naturally.
- 2–3 teaspoons brown sugar or maple syrup: Sweetness is key for cinnamon roll vibes; brown sugar gives a deeper molasses flavor while maple syrup adds natural richness.
- Pinch of sea salt (optional): Just a tiny amount to enhance all the other flavors and balance the sweetness.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats Recipe
Step 1: Mix All Ingredients
Start by combining rolled oats, vanilla Greek yogurt, milk, cinnamon, chia seeds, brown sugar or maple syrup, and sea salt in a sealable jar or container. Give everything a good stir to evenly distribute the flavors and ensure the cinnamon is well-mixed, which is key to that authentic cinnamon roll taste in every bite.
Step 2: Refrigerate Overnight
Seal your jar and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight. This soaking time allows the oats to absorb all the flavors and milk fully, transforming into creamy, tender oats that feel indulgent yet are incredibly easy to prepare ahead of time.
Step 3: Adjust Thickness
Come morning, check the consistency of your oats. If they’re thicker than you prefer, stir in a splash more of your preferred milk until you reach your ideal creaminess. This simple step lets you tailor the oats perfectly to your liking, whether you want spoonable porridge or something a bit looser.
Step 4: Optional Cinnamon Drizzle
For an extra cinnamon kick that echoes the swirl on a classic cinnamon roll, whisk together 1 tablespoon maple syrup and ¼ teaspoon cinnamon. Drizzle this sweet cinnamon syrup right on top of your oats to enhance the flavor and add a touch of glossy sweetness.
Step 5: Optional Icing Drizzle
Why not take your Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats Recipe one step further? Whisk 3 tablespoons powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon melted butter, a drop of vanilla extract, and milk (adding one teaspoon at a time) until smooth and pourable. Drizzle this icing over your oats for a sweet finish that feels like biting into a fresh cinnamon roll.
Step 6: Enjoy Cold or Warm
This dish is versatile enough to enjoy straight from the fridge for a refreshing start, or warmed up gently to bring out its comforting flavors on chillier mornings. Either way, it’s a hearty, delicious breakfast that feels like a treat.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes is a lovely way to personalize this recipe. Toasted pecans or walnuts introduce a pleasing crunch, while a sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a light dusting of nutmeg heightens the spice profile. Fresh fruit like sliced apples or berries adds natural sweetness and a burst of color, turning your oats into a feast for the eyes and palate.
Side Dishes
Though satisfying on its own, pairing your Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats Recipe with simple sides can create a more balanced breakfast. Try a boiled egg for protein or a small handful of nuts for healthy fats that complement the oats’ natural richness without overpowering the cinnamon roll theme.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving these oats layered in a clear glass jar with alternating swirls of the cinnamon drizzle and oats for a fun visual flair. Or top with a dollop of whipped cream and a cinnamon stick as a stirrer for a café-style experience at home. Presentation can make breakfast feel extra special and spark joy as your day begins.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you make more than one serving, simply keep your extra filled jars sealed in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The oats will continue to soak up the flavors, becoming even more tender and delicious with time, perfect for grab-and-go mornings.
Freezing
Freezing overnight oats isn’t typically recommended because the texture of the oats and chia seeds can change after thawing. However, if you want to prepare large batches, consider pre-mixing dry ingredients only and storing those separately, then add wet ingredients and refrigerate the night before serving.
Reheating
If you prefer your oats warm, simply heat your overnight oats gently in the microwave or in a small saucepan on the stove. Add a splash of milk if needed to loosen the texture. Heating brings out the spiced aromas and creates a comforting, cozy breakfast experience similar to a freshly baked cinnamon roll.
FAQs
Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
While you can use instant oats, rolled oats are best for this recipe because they maintain a better texture after soaking overnight. Instant oats may become too mushy and lose that satisfying bite.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! Just swap the vanilla Greek yogurt for a plant-based yogurt alternative and use your favorite plant milk. Maple syrup is a great vegan-friendly sweetener option as well.
How long does the Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats Recipe last in the fridge?
Properly stored in a sealed container, it lasts up to 3 days. After that, the texture and flavor might start to decline, so it’s best enjoyed within that timeframe.
Can I prepare this recipe for multiple servings at once?
Yes! Simply multiply the ingredients based on the number of servings you want and mix everything in a larger container or prepare individual jars for convenient, ready-to-go breakfasts.
What can I use instead of brown sugar?
Maple syrup is an excellent natural alternative that complements the cinnamon flavor beautifully. Honey or coconut sugar can also work well, depending on your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats Recipe is a little slice of morning joy that fits perfectly into any busy lifestyle while still feeling like a cozy treat. It’s simple to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and delivers that irresistible cinnamon roll comfort in a healthy, wholesome way. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite breakfast ritual waiting in the fridge.
Print
Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 8 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Enjoy a delicious and easy-to-make Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats recipe that combines creamy vanilla Greek yogurt, warm cinnamon spice, and a touch of sweetness for the perfect make-ahead breakfast or snack. This healthy, gluten-free option requires no cooking and is ready to eat after a night in the fridge.
Ingredients
Overnight Oats
- ½ cup rolled oats (regular or certified gluten-free)
- 3 tablespoons vanilla Greek yogurt
- ½ cup milk of choice
- ½–1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon chia seeds
- 2–3 teaspoons brown sugar (or maple syrup)
- Pinch of sea salt (optional)
Optional Cinnamon Drizzle
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
Optional Icing Drizzle
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon melted butter
- A drop of vanilla extract
- Milk (1 teaspoon at a time, to desired consistency)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add rolled oats, vanilla Greek yogurt, milk, cinnamon, chia seeds, brown sugar (or maple syrup), and a pinch of sea salt into a sealable jar or container. Stir everything well to combine thoroughly.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Seal the container tightly and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the oats to soak and absorb the flavors and moisture.
- Adjust Consistency: The next morning, check the oats’ thickness and add additional milk if you prefer a thinner consistency. Stir well before serving.
- Make Cinnamon Drizzle (Optional): Whisk together maple syrup and cinnamon in a small bowl. Drizzle this over the oats to boost the cinnamon roll flavor.
- Make Icing Drizzle (Optional): In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and milk a teaspoon at a time until you reach a pourable icing consistency. Drizzle over the oats for a sweet finishing touch.
- Serve: Enjoy the overnight oats cold straight from the fridge or warm them slightly if preferred before eating.
Notes
- You can customize the sweetness and cinnamon level to your taste.
- Use any milk you prefer – dairy or plant-based options work well.
- Chia seeds add omega-3 fats and help thicken the oats, but you can omit them if desired.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based yogurt and maple syrup instead of honey or brown sugar.
- Overnight oats can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
