Apple Pie Overnight Oats are a tasty breakfast option that combines oats, sweet apples, and warm spices. It’s like having dessert for breakfast without any guilt!
I love how simple it is to prepare—just mix everything and let it sit overnight. In the morning, you wake up to a delicious, creamy bowl of goodness. Perfect for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are key for that hearty, chewy texture. If you only have quick oats, you can use them, but they might get mushy. Steel-cut oats can work too, but they require longer soaking.
Milk: You can use any milk you like. Almond, oat, or soy milk are great plant-based options. I often opt for almond milk for its nutty flavor, but feel free to pick your favorite!
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and protein. If you’re avoiding dairy, coconut yogurt or any dairy-free yogurt works beautifully. I personally enjoy the tartness of Greek yogurt, so it’s my go-to.
Apples: Sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji bring a lovely flavor. You can substitute with other fruits too, like pears or even berries, depending on what’s in season!
Nuts: Walnuts add a nice crunch, but you can swap them out for pecans or almonds. If nuts aren’t your thing, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds are great alternatives.
Maple Syrup: This gives that lovely sweetness. Honey is another good option if you’re not vegan. For a lower-calorie alternative, consider agave syrup or even stevia.
How Do I Soak the Oats Properly for the Best Texture?
Soaking the oats is essential for achieving that perfect creamy texture. To do it well, follow these simple steps:
- Mix all the ingredients together first. The oats really benefit from being combined with the yogurt and milk.
- Make sure the oats are fully submerged under the liquid. You want them to absorb moisture.
- Cover your jars tightly; this prevents any odors from the fridge from getting in.
- Let them soak overnight or at least 4-6 hours. The longer, the better! This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
In the morning, if they seem too thick, just stir in some extra milk until you reach your preferred consistency. Enjoy smooth and delicious oats!
How to Make Apple Pie Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup milk (or plant-based milk)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt)
- 1 apple, diced (preferably a sweet variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey)
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped (plus extra for topping)
- 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
- A pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus some chilling time—preferably overnight or at least 4 to 6 hours. This allows the oats to become soft and the flavors to blend beautifully for a delicious breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, cinnamon, nutmeg, maple syrup, chopped walnuts, raisins (if you’re using them), and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together well until it’s all mixed up. This is where the magic starts!
2. Add the Apples:
Now, fold in the diced apple while saving a few pieces for later topping. Gently mix everything so the apple is well-distributed throughout the mixture. The sweetness from the apple will make these oats taste like a cozy apple pie!
3. Store for Chilling:
Divide the delicious mixture into jars or containers with lids. Cover them up and pop them in the refrigerator. You’ll want to let them chill overnight or for at least 4-6 hours to soften the oats and meld those yummy flavors together.
4. Stir and Adjust Consistency:
In the morning, take out your jars and give the oats a good stir. If they seem too thick, don’t worry! Just add a little more milk until they reach the perfect creamy consistency you like.
5. Add Toppings and Enjoy:
Before you dig in, top your oats with the reserved diced apples, some extra chopped walnuts, and a pinch of cinnamon for an extra touch. Enjoy your Apple Pie Overnight Oats chilled or at room temperature. Breakfast is served!
## FAQ
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but keep in mind that the texture will be softer and creamier. If using quick oats, reduce the soaking time to about 2-4 hours, as they absorb liquid faster than rolled oats.
What Dairy-Free Substitutions Can I Use?
If you want to make this recipe dairy-free, you can use any plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk. For yogurt, opt for a dairy-free yogurt substitute made from coconut, almond, or cashew milk. Both will work well, preserving the creamy texture!
How Long Do Overnight Oats Last in the Fridge?
Overnight oats can last in the fridge for up to 5 days. Make sure to keep them in airtight containers. If you plan to store them longer, consider adding fresh fruit and toppings just before eating to maintain their freshness.
Can I Add Other Fruits to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other fruits like sliced bananas, berries, or peaches for added flavor and nutrition. Just chop the fruits into bite-sized pieces and fold them in with the apples!
