If you’re anything like me and adore waking up to a breakfast that tastes like a warm hug, then this Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats Recipe will quickly become your new morning obsession. It’s the perfect combination of cozy cinnamon spice and creamy oats, delivering all the comforting flavors of a classic cinnamon roll without any of the fuss or guilt. What makes this recipe truly special is how effortlessly it comes together the night before, transforming simple ingredients into a wholesome, dreamy start to your day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats Recipe is how straightforward and approachable the ingredient list is. Each component plays its own role: from adding heartiness and texture to infusing that unmistakable cinnamon sweetness that brings everything to life.
- ½ cup rolled oats: Use regular or certified gluten-free oats for a perfect base that’s chewy and hearty.
- 3 tablespoons vanilla Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and a slight tang to balance the sweetness.
- ½ cup milk of choice: Whether dairy or plant-based, it hydrates the oats for that overnight soak.
- ½–1 teaspoon cinnamon: The star spice that gives the oats their warm, aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon chia seeds: Boosts nutrition and helps thicken the oats for a pudding-like texture.
- 2–3 teaspoons brown sugar or maple syrup: Sweetens naturally while complementing the cinnamon.
- Pinch of sea salt (optional): Enhances overall flavor by balancing sweetness.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats Recipe
Step 1: Combine All Ingredients
Start by grabbing a sealable jar or container and adding your rolled oats, vanilla Greek yogurt, milk, cinnamon, chia seeds, brown sugar or maple syrup, and a pinch of sea salt if using. Stir everything together really well so that each oat flake is coated with the creamy, spiced mixture.
Step 2: Refrigerate to Soak
Seal your container tightly and place it in the fridge overnight, or for at least four hours. This is where the magic happens—the oats absorb all the flavors, soften perfectly, and the chia seeds plump up to add a luscious texture.
Step 3: Adjust Thickness in the Morning
When you wake up, check the consistency. If the oats have become too thick for your liking, simply stir in a splash of milk until just right. Thick and creamy overnight oats make you feel like you’re indulging in a dessert for breakfast.
Step 4: Add Optional Cinnamon Drizzle
For an extra cinnamon kick, whisk together a tablespoon of maple syrup with a quarter teaspoon of cinnamon and drizzle this over your oats. It’s a simple touch but adds a beautiful glossy finish and the scent of fresh cinnamon rolls.
Step 5: Whisk Up an Optional Icing Drizzle
If you want to mimic that iconic cinnamon roll icing, whip up a quick glaze by mixing powdered sugar, melted butter, a drop of vanilla extract, and a splash of milk until smooth. Drizzle generously over your oats to make every spoonful decadent.
Step 6: Enjoy Warm or Cold
You can eat this Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats Recipe straight from the fridge if you enjoy a refreshing chilled breakfast, or heat it gently on the stove or microwave for that cozy, warm experience that’s perfect especially on cooler mornings.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats Recipe
Garnishes
Topping your cinnamon roll overnight oats with crunchy toasted nuts, a sprinkle of cinnamon powder, or even some raisins instantly elevates the texture and flavor. Fresh fruit such as sliced apples or pears pairs beautifully, echoing the cozy spice theme and adding juicy freshness.
Side Dishes
Keep it simple or add a little breakfast flair with a side of fresh berries or a small bowl of mixed nuts. A cup of your favorite coffee or chai tea complements the cinnamon notes wonderfully, completing a balanced and satisfying morning ritual.
Creative Ways to Present
For a lovely breakfast presentation, layer the oats in a clear glass jar with a swirl of your cinnamon drizzle, alternating with a spoonful of vanilla yogurt or fresh fruit. This not only looks stunning but builds layers of flavor with each bite, making breakfast feel like a special treat every day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats Recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. Because the oats continue to thicken as they chill, you may need to stir in a little milk before serving to refresh the texture.
Freezing
Freezing overnight oats isn’t typically recommended because the texture can change upon thawing, becoming a bit watery or grainy. For the best flavor and consistency, prepare fresh batches every few days rather than freezing.
Reheating
If you prefer your cinnamon roll overnight oats warm, simply microwave them for 30 to 60 seconds, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. You can also warm them gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
While you can use instant oats, the texture will be softer and less chewy than rolled oats. Rolled oats are recommended to maintain that perfect balance of creaminess and bite that makes this Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats Recipe so special.
Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! Swap the vanilla Greek yogurt for a plant-based yogurt and use your favorite dairy-free milk like almond, oat, or coconut milk. The cinnamon and sweeteners will still shine through beautifully.
Can I make this recipe without chia seeds?
You can omit chia seeds if needed, but they help thicken the oats and add extra nutrition. Without them, your oats may be a bit looser, and you might want to add slightly less milk to keep it creamy.
How sweet is the Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats Recipe?
The sweetness is nicely balanced, customizable to your taste by adjusting the brown sugar or maple syrup. You can go lighter for a subtle hint or add more if you prefer a sweeter start to your day.
Can I prepare this recipe for multiple servings at once?
Yes! Just multiply the ingredients accordingly and use a larger container or individual jars. It’s a fantastic way to prep breakfast for the week ahead and ensures a quick grab-and-go option each morning.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly wonderful about waking up to the cozy, nostalgic flavors of cinnamon rolls without any of the baking hassle. This Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats Recipe combines ease, nutrition, and indulgence in a way that feels like a treat and a nourishing start all at once. I promise once you try it, your mornings won’t be the same—grab those ingredients, give it a whirl, and get ready to fall in love with breakfast all over again.
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
This Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats recipe combines creamy vanilla Greek yogurt, rolled oats, and warm cinnamon flavors for a delicious and nutritious make-ahead breakfast. Sweetened with brown sugar or maple syrup and enriched with chia seeds, these oats soak overnight to create a perfectly soft and flavorful meal that can be enjoyed cold or warmed up, complete with optional cinnamon or icing drizzles for an indulgent touch.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 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
- 1 drop vanilla extract
- Milk (1 teaspoon at a time to adjust consistency)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a sealable jar or container, mix the rolled oats, vanilla Greek yogurt, milk, cinnamon, chia seeds, brown sugar (or maple syrup), and optional pinch of sea salt thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Seal the container and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the oats and chia seeds to soak and absorb the liquid, softening the mixture.
- Adjust Consistency: In the morning, if the oats are too thick, add a little more milk and stir gently to reach your preferred consistency.
- Prepare Cinnamon Drizzle (Optional): Whisk together 1 tablespoon maple syrup and ¼ teaspoon cinnamon, then drizzle this mixture over the soaked oats to enhance the cinnamon roll flavor.
- Prepare Icing Drizzle (Optional): In a small bowl, combine 3 tablespoons powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon melted butter, a drop of vanilla extract, and add milk one teaspoon at a time until the icing reaches a drizzle-able consistency; then drizzle over the oats.
- Serve and Enjoy: Consume the oats cold directly or warm them slightly before eating according to your preference.
Notes
- Use certified gluten-free rolled oats if you require a gluten-free version.
- Vanilla Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein; plain yogurt can be substituted but will alter the flavor.
- Adjust sweetness to taste by varying brown sugar or maple syrup amounts.
- The optional drizzles enhance the cinnamon roll flavor but are not necessary.
- This recipe is perfect for meal prepping and can be stored refrigerated up to 3 days.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based yogurt and milk, and substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine for the icing drizzle.
