There’s something wonderfully comforting about waking up to the promise of a freshly made breakfast, especially when that breakfast tastes like dessert. I first stumbled upon cinnamon roll overnight oats on a particularly hectic morning when I desperately needed a solution for breakfast that wouldn’t demand much of my time but would still satisfy my sweet tooth. The combination of creamy oats, warm cinnamon, and a hint of maple syrup recreated all the cozy vibes of a cinnamon roll, with none of the fuss. Perfect for busy weekdays or leisurely Sundays, this dish encapsulates everything we love about breakfasts that make us feel like we’re pampering ourselves—even on the go!
Why you’ll love this dish
Imagine a breakfast that’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with wholesome ingredients. Cinnamon roll overnight oats check off a lot of boxes: they’re incredibly quick to assemble, budget-friendly, and absolutely kid-approved. If you’re looking for a meal that provides energy without sacrificing taste—or time—this recipe is a gem. It’s particularly perfect for those who find themselves rushing out the door in the morning yet want something delicious waiting for them.
“This was a game changer for my mornings! I didn’t think healthy oats could taste this indulgent. I topped mine with walnuts and raisins, and it truly felt like I was having dessert for breakfast!” – A satisfied breakfast enthusiast.
How this recipe comes together
Making cinnamon roll overnight oats is a breeze that requires less than five minutes of active preparation. You’ll need to gather your oats, milk, cooked quinoa, and basic pantry staples. Simply mix everything in a bowl, let it hang out in the fridge overnight, and voilà! In the morning, give it a good stir, add your favorite toppings, and you’ve got yourself a scrumptious, nourishing breakfast that’s as comforting as a hug.
What you’ll need
To whip up this delightful breakfast, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Chopped nuts or raisins (optional for topping)
Feel free to customize! Swap the almond milk for oat milk for a creamier texture or try sunflower seeds instead of nuts for a nut-free version.
Directions to follow
- In a medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond milk, cooked quinoa, vanilla extract, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir everything together until well blended.
- Cover the bowl with a lid or cling film and place it in the refrigerator overnight.
- When morning breaks, give the mixture a good stir. If you’d like, add toppings like chopped nuts or a handful of raisins to elevate the flavor.
- Serve cold and enjoy the indulgent essence of a cinnamon roll in a healthy breakfast form!
Best ways to enjoy it
Feeding a crowd? Serve these oats in individual jars for a delightful breakfast presentation. You can pair them with fresh fruit, such as sliced bananas or juicy berries, to add a refreshing touch. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dollop of Greek yogurt can introduce a creamy richness that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
How to store
Leftovers? No problem! Store your cinnamon roll oats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They actually become even more flavorful as the flavors meld together! If you’re planning to enjoy them later in the week, you can even freeze individual portions. Just remember to allow sufficient time to thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying a quick breakfast!
Helpful cooking tips
Want your oats to be extra creamy? Consider using overnight soaking techniques. The longer they soak, the softer they become. Also, don’t be shy with your toppings! A drizzle of extra maple syrup or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon can elevate the whole experience. And if you like a bit of crunch, adding toasted nuts right before serving can make all the difference.
Creative twists
While the classic version is great on its own, why not give it a spin? Try adding unsweetened cocoa powder for a chocolatey take on the recipe or substitute pumpkin purée for some fall flair. You can also experiment with different spices like nutmeg or allspice to create your own flavor profile.
Your questions answered
What is the prep time for cinnamon roll overnight oats?
The prep is quick—around 5 minutes, making it ideal for busy mornings.
Can I substitute the quinoa with something else?
Absolutely! Cooked rice or chia seeds can work in place of quinoa if you’re in a pinch.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
This recipe is naturally vegan if you stick with maple syrup and almond milk. Just avoid honey if you want to keep it strictly plant-based.
Enjoy your time in the kitchen, and I hope your mornings become just a little brighter with these cinnamon roll overnight oats waiting for you!
Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats
Ingredients
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond milk, cooked quinoa, vanilla extract, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir everything together until well blended.
- Cover the bowl with a lid or cling film and place it in the refrigerator overnight.
- When morning breaks, give the mixture a good stir. If you’d like, add toppings like chopped nuts or a handful of raisins.
- Serve cold and enjoy your cinnamon roll overnight oats!