These Salted Caramel Apple Overnight Oats are like fall in a jar.
They’re creamy, sweet, salty, and full of warm apple cinnamon flavor.
Perfect for busy mornings, you mix it all up the night before and wake up to breakfast that tastes like dessert.
I make a batch at least once a week when apples are in season—they never last long!
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and diced small
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (divided)
- 2 tablespoons salted caramel sauce (plus extra for topping)
- 1 teaspoon chia seeds (optional)
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe makes me excited to get out of bed. It’s cozy, comforting, and feels like a treat. I started making it during the fall one year, and it quickly became a staple whenever I had apples around. Here’s what makes it so special to me:
- You don’t have to cook anything—just mix and chill
- It tastes like caramel apple pie, but way healthier
- It’s filling and keeps you going until lunch
- You can make it ahead and grab it on busy mornings
Servings and Time
Servings: 2
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 6+ hours (overnight)
Total Time: 10 minutes hands-on
Macros (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~280
- Protein: 11g
- Fat: 7g
- Carbs: 42g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 18g (includes natural sugar from apples and caramel)
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Oats soak up the milk and yogurt overnight, softening without cooking. The yogurt adds creaminess and tang, while the chia seeds thicken everything up. Cinnamon and brown sugar highlight the natural sweetness of apples, and the salted caramel brings everything together with sweet-salty balance. It’s a no-cook layering of flavor and texture science!
Common Mistakes
- Using steel-cut oats: They won’t soften enough overnight. Stick to rolled oats.
- Not peeling the apple: Skin can be tough and won’t soften much in the fridge.
- Too little liquid: The oats need enough milk and yogurt to soften.
- Skipping the salt: A pinch of sea salt enhances the caramel flavor big time.
- Not chilling long enough: It really needs at least 6 hours in the fridge to thicken.
What to Serve With
- A hot cup of chai or cinnamon tea
- A boiled egg for extra protein
- Toasted pecans or granola for crunch
- A banana or extra fruit on the side
FAQ
Can I use instant oats?
Yes, but they’ll be mushier. Rolled oats give better texture.
Can I warm this up?
Yep! Microwave for 30–45 seconds if you want it warm.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 4 days in a sealed jar or container.
Can I use non-dairy yogurt?
Absolutely—coconut, almond, or soy yogurt works great.
Is there a low-sugar option?
Use unsweetened applesauce instead of caramel or cut the brown sugar.
Tools Required
- Cutting board and knife
- Small saucepan (for apple)
- Mason jar or container with lid
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small spoon for layering and stirring
Substitutions and Variations
- Use honey or maple syrup instead of caramel
- Swap apple for pear or banana
- Add chopped nuts for crunch
- Use coconut milk for a tropical twist
- Stir in protein powder for an extra boost
Make Ahead Tips
You can prep 3–4 jars at once and store them in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just don’t add any toppings like nuts until serving so they stay crisp.
Instructions
Step 1: Caramelize the Apples
In a small saucepan over medium heat, add 1 medium diced apple, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, and a tiny pinch (1/8 teaspoon) of sea salt. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring often, until the apples are soft and caramelized. Let them cool completely.
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup rolled oats, 1 cup almond milk, 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon chia seeds (if using). Stir until everything is well mixed.
Step 3: Add the Caramel and Apples
Stir in 2 tablespoons salted caramel sauce and the cooled caramelized apples into the oat mixture. Mix until evenly combined.
Step 4: Divide and Chill
Spoon the mixture evenly into two mason jars or containers. Seal with lids and refrigerate overnight (at least 6 hours).
Step 5: Serve and Top
In the morning, give the oats a quick stir. Top with an extra drizzle of salted caramel and a sprinkle of sea salt if desired. Enjoy straight from the jar or in a bowl.
Leftovers and Storage
Store leftovers in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 4 days. If the oats get too thick, just stir in a splash of milk before eating. Don’t freeze—the texture changes too much.
Wrap-Up
These Salted Caramel Apple Overnight Oats are an easy way to make breakfast feel special. They’re cozy, sweet, and satisfying—and you don’t even have to turn on the stove in the morning. If you give them a try, drop a comment and let me know how it turned out or if you made any fun twists!
