This cranberry orange overnight oats recipe is my go-to when I want something easy, tasty, and refreshing first thing in the morning.
It’s got that bright citrus flavor from fresh orange juice and zest, plus the sweet-tart pop of cranberries.
Mix everything up the night before and wake up to something that feels kinda fancy but takes no effort in the morning.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Zest of 1 orange
- Juice of 1 orange (about 1/4 cup)
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe is on constant repeat at my place. It’s the one I crave when I want something that tastes like I put effort in—without actually putting effort in.
- The orange and cranberry combo is just fresh and cozy all at once
- I can prep it in 5 minutes and it’s ready when I wake up
- It keeps me full all morning without feeling heavy
- It feels like a little treat, even though it’s super healthy
- The texture is perfectly creamy with little chewy bites from the cranberries
Servings and Time
Makes: 2 servings
Time: 5 minutes prep + overnight chill
Macros (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 12g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 18g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The oats soak up the almond milk and orange juice overnight, which softens them without cooking. The chia seeds help thicken the mixture and add fiber and healthy fats. The yogurt makes it creamy, while the orange zest and juice bring brightness. Dried cranberries add chewy texture and natural sweetness.
Common Mistakes
- Using quick oats: They get too mushy overnight. Stick with old-fashioned rolled oats.
- Not enough liquid: This will make your oats dry and clumpy. Follow the liquid ratio exactly.
- Skipping the zest: The orange zest is what really brings out the flavor. Don’t leave it out!
- Overloading with cranberries: Too many, and the oats get overly sweet and chewy. Stick to the 1/2 cup.
What to Serve With
- A hot cup of coffee or tea
- A soft-boiled egg for a little extra protein
- A side of fresh berries or banana slices
- Toast with almond butter if you’re extra hungry
FAQ
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, just use a dairy-free yogurt like coconut or almond milk yogurt.
Can I use fresh cranberries?
Dried cranberries are best here for texture and sweetness. Fresh will be too tart and watery.
Do I have to use chia seeds?
They help thicken it, but you can skip them or use ground flaxseed as a substitute.
How long will it last in the fridge?
Up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Tools You’ll Need
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Microplane or grater (for zest)
- Mason jars or containers with lids
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap almond milk for oat, soy, or dairy milk
- Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan option
- Add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for crunch
- Use orange extract instead of zest if you’re out
- Stir in protein powder for an extra boost
Make Ahead Tips
You can prep a double or triple batch and store in separate jars for the week. Just give each jar a quick stir before eating.
How to Make Cranberry Orange Overnight Oats
Step 1: Combine oats, chia seeds, and cinnamon
In a medium bowl, add 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats, 1 tablespoon chia seeds, and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Stir them together until evenly mixed.
Step 2: Add Greek yogurt and almond milk
To the same bowl, add 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt and 1 cup unsweetened almond milk. Mix everything until well combined.
Step 3: Add orange zest and juice
Add the zest of 1 orange and the juice of 1 orange (about 1/4 cup) to the bowl. Stir gently to blend.
Step 4: Add dried cranberries, vanilla, and honey
Now stir in 1/2 cup dried cranberries, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons honey. Give it a final mix.
Step 5: Divide and refrigerate
Spoon the mixture into two jars or containers with lids. Cover and refrigerate overnight (at least 6 hours).
Leftovers and Storage
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep them in airtight jars or containers. If it thickens too much, just stir in a splash of milk before eating.
Conclusion
These cranberry orange overnight oats are bright, creamy, and a little sweet—just the way breakfast should be. They’re the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. If you try it, leave a comment and let me know how it went or if you made any fun changes.
