If cozy mornings had a flavor, it would taste exactly like these Gingerbread Overnight Oats.
They’ve got that warm holiday spice, the sweet kick of molasses, and creamy oats that are ready for you as soon as you wake up.
No stove, no fuss—just scoop, stir, chill, and enjoy.
I love this recipe because it makes breakfast feel special without taking up your time in the morning.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe is like getting a warm hug in the middle of a busy morning. It makes the kitchen smell like Christmas (even though it’s made cold!) and it tastes indulgent without being heavy.
- It takes 5 minutes to put together
- It’s ready to eat right out of the fridge
- You can meal-prep several jars at once
- It tastes like dessert, but fuels your day
Servings and Time
- Servings: 2 jars
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Chill Time: 6–8 hours (overnight)
- Total Time: 5 minutes active, overnight rest
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp molasses
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- Pinch of ground cloves
- Pinch of salt
- Optional toppings: whipped cream, crushed gingerbread cookies, extra cinnamon sprinkle
Pro Tips
- Always use old-fashioned oats—not quick oats—for the best texture.
- Stir really well so the molasses doesn’t clump at the bottom.
- If you like thicker oats, reduce the milk slightly.
- These taste even better after 2 nights in the fridge.
- Add toppings only before serving so they stay crunchy.
Tools You’ll Need
- 2 glass jars or containers with lids
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small whisk or spoon for mixing
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt for dairy-free.
- Use honey instead of maple syrup.
- Add chia seeds (1 tbsp) for extra thickness.
- Top with sliced bananas or toasted pecans for crunch.
Make Ahead Tips
- Make 3–4 jars at once for grab-and-go breakfasts all week.
- Store in the fridge up to 4 days.
- Add toppings right before eating to keep them fresh.
Instructions
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
Add 1 cup rolled oats, 1 tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp ginger, ¼ tsp nutmeg, a pinch of cloves, and a pinch of salt into a medium mixing bowl. Stir gently to combine the spices with the oats.
Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
Pour in 1 cup milk, ½ cup Greek yogurt, 2 tbsp molasses, 1 tbsp maple syrup, and 1 tsp vanilla extract into the same bowl. Stir until everything is fully combined and smooth.
Step 3: Portion Into Jars
Spoon the oat mixture evenly into 2 glass jars, filling them about ¾ of the way. Smooth the tops with the back of a spoon.
Step 4: Chill Overnight
Seal the jars with lids and place them in the fridge to chill for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, until thick and creamy.
Step 5: Add Toppings and Serve
In the morning, remove the jars, top with whipped cream, crushed gingerbread cookies, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Serve immediately with a golden spoon.
Leftovers and Storage
- Store leftovers in the fridge up to 4 days.
- Don’t freeze—texture will be mushy.
- If mixture gets too thick, stir in a splash of milk before serving.
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Oats soak up liquid as they rest, breaking down their starches and turning creamy. Greek yogurt adds thickness and protein, while molasses brings depth of flavor and sweetness that mimics gingerbread. The spices bloom overnight, making every bite taste warm and cozy.
Common Mistakes
- Using quick oats—they’ll get too mushy.
- Not stirring well—the molasses can sink to the bottom.
- Adding toppings too early—they’ll lose crunch.
What to Serve With
- A hot latte or chai tea for the ultimate cozy breakfast.
- Fresh fruit like pears or apples.
- A slice of banana bread for a heartier spread.
FAQ
Can I use steel-cut oats?
Not for this recipe—they won’t soften enough overnight.
Can I skip the molasses?
You can, but it won’t taste like gingerbread. Add more maple syrup if you prefer.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes! Use non-dairy milk and non-dairy yogurt.
Do I need to cook the oats first?
Nope, the fridge time does all the work for you.
Conclusion
These Gingerbread Overnight Oats are the easiest way to make mornings feel cozy without cooking. Just stir, chill, and enjoy a jar full of holiday flavor any day of the week. If you give this recipe a try, let me know how it turned out for you—I’d love to hear your twist on it!
Macros (per serving, without toppings):
- Calories: ~310
- Protein: 14g
- Carbs: 49g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 6g
