These Apple Cinnamon Protein Overnight Oats are a tasty and easy breakfast. With creamy oats, sweet apple chunks, and a sprinkle of cinnamon, they make mornings special!
Honestly, who wouldn’t want to wake up to this delicious mix? I love making extra to enjoy throughout the week. They’re great for busy mornings and keep me full until lunch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are the star here. They soak up the liquid and become soft overnight. If you’re gluten-free, look for certified gluten-free oats!
Milk: Feel free to use any milk you like! Almond, soy, oat, or regular cow’s milk all work well. If you’re avoiding dairy, plant milk options are great substitutes.
Greek Yogurt: This adds protein and creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, use a plant-based yogurt. Skyr or regular yogurt can also be used for a similar texture.
Apple: I love using Gala apples for their sweetness, but any apple can work! For a bit more tartness, go for Granny Smith. Or if you’re out of apples, try using applesauce – just reduce the liquid slightly.
Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add crunch. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds are good alternatives.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for Overnight Oats?
The key to creamy overnight oats is the right balance of liquid to oats. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Make sure you use enough liquid—milk plus yogurt should be around one cup for 1/2 cup of oats.
- Chia seeds help absorb some moisture, so don’t forget them! They also add healthy fiber.
- If the oats seem too thick in the morning, just stir in a little splash of milk to get your desired consistency.
Let the mixture sit in the fridge overnight. This waiting period allows the oats and chia seeds to absorb the liquid fully, resulting in a thick but creamy texture.
Apple Cinnamon Protein Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt
- 1 scoop vanilla or unflavored protein powder
- 1 small apple (like Gala or Fuji), diced finely or thinly sliced for topping
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional, for sweetness)
- 2 tbsp chopped pecans or walnuts (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll let it chill overnight in the fridge. It’s a perfect make-ahead breakfast, ready to enjoy in the morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl or mason jar, add the rolled oats, protein powder, chia seeds, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Give it a good stir to mix everything evenly.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients:
Pour in the milk and Greek yogurt, plus the maple syrup or honey (if you want some extra sweetness) and vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is well combined and smooth.
3. Fold in the Apple and Nuts:
Gently fold in the diced apple and chopped pecans or walnuts until just incorporated. This adds a nice crunch and flavor to your oats!
4. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover the bowl or jar with a lid or plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. Let the oats soak overnight (or at least for 4-6 hours), so they become soft and creamy.
5. Stir and Adjust Consistency:
The next morning, give your oats a thorough stir. If they seem too thick, feel free to add a splash of milk until you reach your desired creaminess.
6. Add Toppings:
Top the oats with thin apple slices, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and any extra chopped nuts for added crunch. You can also drizzle a little more maple syrup if you like it sweeter!
7. Enjoy!
Scoop your delicious Apple Cinnamon Protein Overnight Oats into a bowl or enjoy right from the jar with a spoon. They’re nutritious and filling—perfect for starting your day right!
This recipe gives you a creamy, flavorful breakfast packed with protein, fiber, and the warm comforting taste of apple and cinnamon — all in a quick, convenient package! Enjoy!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can! However, quick oats will absorb liquid faster and may yield a slightly mushier texture. If you choose to use them, reduce the soaking time to 2-4 hours instead of overnight.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the dairy milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or any plant-based milk of your choice. Also, use a non-dairy yogurt to keep it completely dairy-free.
What Other Fruits Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! Other great fruit options include sliced bananas, berries, or diced pears. Just remember to adjust the sweetness as needed if the fruit varies in sweetness!
How Long Do Leftover Oats Last in the Fridge?
These overnight oats are best enjoyed within 3-5 days if stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Just give them a good stir and adjust the consistency with a little milk before eating!