Carrot Cake Overnight Oats are a yummy and healthy breakfast! Made with oats, grated carrots, honey, and warm spices, they taste just like dessert.
I love how quick and easy they are to prepare ahead of time. Just mix everything in a jar and let it sit overnight. Breakfast couldn’t be simpler or tastier!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Old-fashioned rolled oats: These oats are perfect for overnight oats as they absorb liquids well. If you’re short on time, quick oats can work, but they won’t hold their shape as nicely.
Almond milk: It adds a nutty flavor, but feel free to use any milk you like—cow’s milk, oat milk, or soy milk are great alternatives!
Greek yogurt: It adds creaminess and protein. If you’re going dairy-free, coconut yogurt or any non-dairy yogurt can be used instead.
Chia seeds: They help thicken the oats and provide healthy fats. If you’re out of chia seeds, you can skip them, but consider adding more oats or using ground flaxseed as a substitute.
Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger): These give warmth and flavor. Customize the spice mix to your taste—add more cinnamon or a little allspice for a different twist.
Pecans: They add crunch and flavor. You can swap pecans for walnuts or sunflower seeds if allergies are a concern!
How Do I Make My Oats Creamy and Delicious?
To achieve that perfect creamy texture in your overnight oats, focus on a few key techniques:
- Mix your dry ingredients completely before adding liquids. This ensures even flavor throughout.
- Use Greek yogurt along with milk for extra creaminess. The ratio of yogurt to milk can be adjusted based on your texture preference.
- Let the oats soak in the fridge overnight. This not only softens the oats but allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- If after soaking the mixture seems too thick, simply add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
These tips will help you whip up a batch of rich and satisfying carrot cake overnight oats every time!
Carrot Cake Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt)
- 1 large carrot, shredded (about 1 cup)
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- Pinch of salt
Extras for Topping:
- 2 tbsp chopped pecans (plus extra for topping)
- Optional: shredded coconut for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and requires a minimum of 4 hours (or overnight) to chill. Get it ready the night before, and you’ll have a delightful, nutritious breakfast waiting for you in the morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium mixing bowl, add the rolled oats, chia seeds, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of salt. Mix these ingredients together well to ensure that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the oats.
2. Mix in the Wet Ingredients:
Add the shredded carrot, almond milk, Greek yogurt, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are well combined and the mixture appears creamy.
3. Add Some Crunch:
Now, fold in the chopped pecans gently, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the mix for a delightful crunch in each bite.
4. Pack It Up:
Transfer the mixture into a clean jar or container with a lid. Make sure to leave a bit of space at the top because the oats will absorb the liquid as they soak overnight.
5. Refrigerate:
Cover the jar or container tightly and place it in the refrigerator. Allow it to chill for at least 4 hours or, even better, overnight. This step helps soften the oats and blend the flavors nicely.
6. Ready to Serve:
In the morning, take the oats out of the refrigerator and give them a good stir. If you find the mixture too thick, feel free to add a splash of milk to loosen it up to your desired consistency.
7. Final Touches:
Top your oats with extra chopped pecans and a sprinkle of shredded coconut for added flavor and texture. You might even want to drizzle a little more maple syrup or honey on top if you like it sweeter!
8. Dig In:
Enjoy your Carrot Cake Overnight Oats straight from the jar for a quick and tasty breakfast, or warm them slightly if you prefer a cozy dish. Enjoy the delightful flavors and nourishing ingredients!
This recipe captures the essence of carrot cake in a healthy, grab-and-go breakfast! The spices, carrot, and pecans make it comforting and delicious while staying nutritious.
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but keep in mind they will create a softer texture compared to rolled oats. If you prefer a chewier bite, stick to old-fashioned rolled oats for the best results!
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, you can use any plain yogurt, including dairy-free options like coconut or almond yogurt. Just make sure it’s unsweetened to maintain the flavor balance!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover oats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give them a good stir before serving, and add a splash of milk if they seem too thick.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! To make this recipe vegan, simply replace Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt, use maple syrup instead of honey, and choose any plant-based milk. Enjoy your delicious vegan carrot cake oats!