Name: Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats or quick oats; 3 tablespoons chia seeds; 1 cup Greek or Skyr yogurt, dairy or plant-based; 1 ½ cups non-dairy milk of choice; 1 ½ tablespoons pure maple syrup, or to taste; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup diced apple (Honeycrisp or Cosmic Crisp recommended); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional); ⅛ teaspoon ginger (optional); ⅛ teaspoon allspice (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 6 reviews

If you’re looking for a breakfast that’s as comforting as it is nutritious, this Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats Recipe is the perfect start to your day. Combining sweet, crisp apples and warm cinnamon with creamy yogurt and hearty oats, it’s a make-ahead meal that tastes like a cozy hug in a bowl. The blend of spices and natural sweetness creates a delightful balance that will have you excited to wake up and dig in every morning. Trust me, once you make these overnight oats, you’ll wonder how you ever breakfasted without them.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl holds four distinct layers of dry ingredients placed side by side in a circular arrangement: light beige oats on the top left, a heap of brown cinnamon powder in the center, a small mound of pale beige ginger powder on the lower left next to the cinnamon, and tiny black chia seeds covering the right half of the bowl. Above this bowl, there is a metallic measuring cup filled with red and white chopped apple pieces. The background is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats Recipe is surprisingly simple to make, thanks to a handful of staple ingredients that each play a crucial role. From the creamy texture that yogurt and milk provide to the cozy spice notes infused by cinnamon and nutmeg, each component builds layers of flavor and nutrition that feel anything but basic.

2 cups rolled oats or quick oats: The hearty base that absorbs all the flavors and softens beautifully overnight.
3 tablespoons chia seeds: A tiny nutritional powerhouse that adds body and natural thickening.
1 cup Greek or Skyr yogurt, dairy or plant-based: Creaminess and protein for a satiating breakfast.
1 ½ cups non-dairy milk of choice: Keeps things smooth while accommodating any diet preference.
1 ½ tablespoons pure maple syrup, or to taste: Adds the perfect natural sweetness without overpowering.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract: A subtle warm note that complements the spices.
1 cup diced apple, preferably Honeycrisp or Cosmic Crisp: Crunchy, sweet fruit that brightens every bite.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that delivers that classic apple-cinnamon magic.
¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional): Adds depth and a hint of warmth.
⅛ teaspoon ginger (optional): A gentle zing to balance the sweetness.
⅛ teaspoon allspice (optional): An earthy note that enhances the spice blend.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats Recipe

Step 1: Combine All Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients into a large bowl. Stir everything together until the oats, chia seeds, diced apples, yogurt, milk, maple syrup, vanilla, and spices are evenly mixed. This ensures every spoonful bursts with consistent flavor and texture. It’s the magic moment when basic ingredients transform into a promise of a delicious morning.

Step 2: Refrigerate to Set

Once combined, cover your mixture with a lid or plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. Let it chill for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight, to let the oats absorb the liquids and the flavors meld. If you prefer, you can divide the mix into four individual jars for easy grab-and-go breakfasts throughout the week.

Step 3: Ready to Enjoy

The next morning, your oats will be thick, creamy, and packed with those gorgeous apple-cinnamon notes. Give it a good stir to wake up the flavors, and it’s ready to be topped or eaten as is.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats Recipe

Two clear glass jars are filled with three visible layers each: the bottom layer is a thick brown spread, the middle layer is a creamy oatmeal mixture with oats and chia seeds, and the top layer consists of chopped red apple pieces mixed with more oatmeal, all drizzled with a glossy brown nut butter. The jars sit on a white plate with a subtle patterned edge, and a spoon with a smear of nut butter rests beside a slice of red apple on the plate. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface, with a blurred red apple and a jar of oats in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While this Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats Recipe tastes incredible on its own, toppings can really elevate the experience. Try adding a dollop of almond or peanut butter for richness, a sprinkle of chopped nuts or seeds for crunch, or a drizzle of extra maple syrup for sweetness that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Fresh apple slices or a dash of cinnamon on top add a bright finishing touch.

Side Dishes

This recipe is a complete breakfast, but if you want to round it out, consider pairing it with a side of fresh fruit, a warm cup of herbal tea, or even a small vegetable omelet. These accompaniments complement the creamy oats and keep your morning balanced and nourishing.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation makes breakfast feel special. Try serving the Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats in clear glass jars to show off the beautiful layers of oats, fruit, and spices. Add a cinnamon stick as a stirrer or use cute wooden spoons to give a rustic vibe. Whether it’s a cozy solo breakfast or a brunch with friends, a thoughtful presentation makes every bite feel like a treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you make a bigger batch of this Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats Recipe, don’t worry—leftovers keep really well. Store them in an airtight container or the same jar in the refrigerator for up to five days. Just keep in mind the oats may thicken over time, so stirring in a splash of milk before eating helps bring back that creamy texture you love.

Freezing

While overnight oats are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to a month. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before eating. Because of the texture changes in frozen oats, I recommend giving them a good stir and adding a bit more milk when you’re ready to enjoy your breakfast.

Reheating

Prefer your oats warm? No problem! Simply transfer your portion into a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second bursts until it reaches your desired temperature. Stir between intervals to heat evenly without making any clumps. Warm apple cinnamon oats are just as comforting and delicious as the cold version.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples in this recipe?

Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Cosmic Crisp are great choices for their natural sweetness and crunch, feel free to use any apple variety you like. Just keep in mind some apples might be softer or tarter, which will subtly change the flavor and texture.

Is this Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats Recipe gluten-free?

It can be, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats. Many rolled oats are processed in facilities that also handle gluten, so if you have sensitivities or celiac disease, look for oats labeled gluten-free to keep it safe.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Definitely! Use a plant-based yogurt like almond or coconut yogurt and a non-dairy milk such as oat, almond, or soy. The maple syrup sweetener is vegan-friendly as well, so this recipe adapts beautifully to a vegan lifestyle.

How long does it take to make this recipe?

The prep time is just about 10 minutes, but the oats need to chill for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This hands-off cooking style makes it perfect for busy mornings when you want a fast, nutritious breakfast ready to go.

Can I add other fruits or nuts?

Yes! This recipe is very adaptable. Add berries, sliced bananas, or dried fruits for extra flavor, or toss in walnuts, pecans, or pumpkin seeds for a satisfying crunch. It’s easy to customize to match your tastes and mood.

Final Thoughts

Making this Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats Recipe is like preparing a little morning gift for yourself. It’s simple, wholesome, and packed with comforting flavors that feel like a warm embrace. Whether you keep it classic or add your personal twist, this recipe promises a deliciously satisfying start to your day. Give it a try and watch it become one of your favorite breakfast rituals.

Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need