This is one of those recipes I make on repeat. It’s cozy, tastes like apple pie, and makes mornings super easy.
Just stir everything together the night before, pop it in the fridge, and wake up to a creamy, flavorful breakfast that’s ready to grab and go.
It’s great cold, but also delicious warmed up if you like a hot breakfast.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe has been part of my weekly breakfast prep for years. Here’s why it works so well in real life:
- You make it ahead — no morning stress.
- It actually keeps you full until lunch.
- Feels like dessert, but it’s totally healthy.
- Easy to customize depending on what you have.
It reminds me of apple crisp my grandma used to bake, but in a chilled, creamy version I can eat on a busy morning.
What You’ll Need
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk)
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tsp chia seeds
- ½ apple, diced small
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp maple syrup or honey
- Pinch of salt
Pro Tips
- Dice the apples small so they soften overnight and mix evenly.
- Use old-fashioned rolled oats — not quick oats or steel cut.
- Shake the jar after a few hours to prevent clumps.
- Want it extra creamy? Add an extra spoonful of yogurt.
- Add toppings right before eating to keep textures fresh.
Tools Required
- Mason jar with lid or any small container
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small mixing bowl
- Spoon
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap apple for pear or banana
- Use oat milk, cow’s milk, or soy milk
- Skip the yogurt for a dairy-free version
- Add a handful of chopped nuts for crunch
- Use pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon for fall vibes
Make Ahead Tips
Make 2–3 jars at a time and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just shake before eating.
Instructions
Step 1: Dice the Apple
Dice ½ an apple into small cubes, about the size of blueberries.
Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients
In a small mixing bowl or jar, add ½ cup rolled oats, 1 tsp chia seeds, ½ tsp cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Add ½ cup unsweetened almond milk, ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt, and 1 tsp maple syrup to the jar.
Step 4: Add the Diced Apple
Drop in the small diced apple pieces on top of everything.
Step 5: Stir It All Together
Use a spoon to stir everything really well so the ingredients are evenly mixed.
Step 6: Cover and Refrigerate Overnight
Seal the jar with a lid and place in the fridge for at least 6 hours or overnight.
Step 7: Add Toppings Before Serving
In the morning, open the jar and give the oats a quick stir. Add extra diced apple, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup on top for a fresh, beautiful finish.
Leftovers and Storage
These oats last up to 4 days in the fridge. Keep them in a sealed container or jar. If the oats thicken too much, stir in a splash of milk before eating.
Makes
1 serving
Time
Prep: 5 minutes
Chill: 6+ hours (overnight)
Macros (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 280
Protein: 11g
Carbs: 38g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 7g
Sugar: 12g (mostly from apple and maple syrup)
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Rolled oats absorb liquid slowly, softening overnight without cooking.
- Chia seeds thicken the mix thanks to their gel-like texture.
- Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein.
- Apples add natural sweetness and a little crunch.
Common Mistakes
- Using steel-cut oats — they stay too tough.
- Not mixing well — you’ll get clumps of dry oats.
- Forgetting the salt — it brings out the flavors.
- Skipping the overnight chill — the oats need time to absorb.
What to Serve With
- A boiled egg or scrambled eggs for protein
- A small cup of coffee or tea
- A spoonful of nut butter on top
- Extra fruit like banana or berries
FAQ
Can I microwave it in the morning?
Yes! Warm it in a microwave-safe jar or bowl for about 30–45 seconds.
Can I make it without yogurt?
Yep. Just add a little more milk to make up for the creaminess.
Can I double or triple the recipe?
Absolutely. Just portion it into separate jars.
Is it okay to use quick oats?
You can, but the texture will be mushier. Rolled oats are best.
Conclusion
Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats are a total win — easy to make, full of flavor, and a great way to start your day feeling satisfied. Give it a try, and don’t forget to come back and leave a comment with how it turned out or if you have any questions!
