Creamy, cozy, and full of holiday flavor—these Eggnog Overnight Oats are like Christmas morning in a bowl.
I started making this recipe when I had leftover eggnog after a holiday party and didn’t want it to go to waste.
Now I look forward to it every winter! You throw it together in minutes the night before, and when you wake up, breakfast is ready and packed with protein, fiber, and that warm spiced flavor we all crave this time of year.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, depending on sweetness of eggnog)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
- Extra cinnamon or nutmeg for garnish
Pro Tips
- Use old-fashioned rolled oats, not quick oats. They hold their texture better overnight.
- If your eggnog is super sweet, taste before adding maple syrup.
- A pinch of salt (⅛ tsp) can bring out the flavors even more.
- Don’t skip the chia seeds—they help thicken the oats.
- Want it warm? Just microwave in the morning for 30–45 seconds.
Tools Needed
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Mason jar or airtight container
- Small serving bowl (for the next morning)
Substitutions and Variations
- Use almond or oat-based eggnog for a dairy-free version.
- Swap Greek yogurt with dairy-free yogurt if needed.
- Add chopped nuts or dried cranberries for extra texture.
- Stir in a scoop of protein powder to boost nutrition.
- Want more spice? Add a pinch of cloves or allspice.
Make Ahead Tips
Make it the night before and store in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days, so you can prep several jars ahead of time for the week.
How to Make Eggnog Overnight Oats
Step 1: Add oats and eggnog to a bowl
Pour 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats and 1 cup eggnog into a mixing bowl. Stir to combine.
Step 2: Mix in Greek yogurt
Add ½ cup plain Greek yogurt to the oat mixture. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Add chia seeds and spices
Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon chia seeds, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg. Mix well so the spices are evenly spread.
Step 4: Sweeten and flavor
Drizzle in 1 tablespoon maple syrup and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir everything together until fully combined.
Step 5: Transfer and chill overnight
Spoon the oat mixture into a mason jar or airtight container. Seal and place in the fridge overnight (at least 6 hours).
Step 6: Serve and garnish
In the morning, give the oats a stir and spoon into a small bowl. Top with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg.
Leftovers and Storage
Store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Stir before eating. Can be eaten cold or heated in the microwave for 30–45 seconds.
Why I Love This Recipe
I made this on a whim one night after hosting a holiday party and having way too much eggnog left. The next morning, I was shocked at how much I loved it—it’s creamy, spiced, and feels indulgent without being heavy. It’s now a seasonal tradition!
- Uses up leftover eggnog
- No cooking required
- Perfect for cozy mornings
- Can be made days ahead
- Feels like dessert, but it’s breakfast
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Chia seeds absorb the liquid overnight and expand, thickening the mixture naturally without needing heat. The Greek yogurt adds protein and creaminess, while the oats slowly absorb the eggnog, creating a pudding-like texture. The spices bloom overnight, making the flavors richer by morning.
Common Mistakes
- Using quick oats: They get too mushy.
- Not letting it sit long enough: You need at least 6 hours.
- Skipping the chia seeds: The texture won’t be as thick.
- Adding too much sweetener: Some eggnogs are already very sweet.
What to Serve With
- Hot cup of chai or coffee
- Fresh berries on the side
- Toast with almond butter
- Scrambled eggs for extra protein
FAQ
Can I use steel-cut oats?
No, they won’t soften enough overnight.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free oats to make it GF.
Can I heat it up?
Yes! Microwave for 30–45 seconds if you prefer it warm.
Is the eggnog flavor strong?
It’s mellow but noticeable. You can add more spices if you want a bolder taste.
Can I double or triple the recipe?
Absolutely. Just keep the ratio of oats to liquid the same.
