Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats

Creamy, cozy, and absolutely dreamy, these Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats taste like dessert for breakfast while keeping you energized all morning. Think apple pie spice with a cool, velvety finish.

You will love how effortless this is. Stir it together in minutes, let the fridge do the work, and wake up to a ready-made, fiber-packed breakfast. It is perfect for busy weekdays and back-to-school mornings.

This recipe has that nostalgic apple-cinnamon warmth with just the right touch of maple sweetness. It has been my go-to make-ahead breakfast all fall long.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Grab-and-go convenience: Prep at night and enjoy a nourishing breakfast with zero morning effort.
• Balanced and satisfying: Protein, fiber, and healthy fats keep you full and steady until lunch.
• Kid-friendly flavors: Familiar apple pie vibes with cinnamon and vanilla make it an easy win.
• Totally flexible: Use your favorite milk, make it dairy-free, dial sweetness up or down, and customize toppings.

Key Ingredients for Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats

Rolled oats are the backbone of creamy overnight oats. They hydrate beautifully without turning mushy. Look for old-fashioned rolled oats rather than quick oats, which can get pasty. Steel-cut oats are too firm for the same soak time. If needed, use certified gluten-free oats to keep it gluten-free.

Apples

Fresh apples add juicy crunch and natural sweetness that makes every bite pop. Choose crisp varieties like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji. Dice into small, even pieces so they mingle through the oats. Prefer a softer texture? Grate the apple or quickly sauté in a dab of butter or coconut oil with cinnamon for a cozy, pie-like vibe.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon delivers that signature warm bakery aroma. Use a generous pinch for flavor that carries through. Saigon or Ceylon cinnamon both work. Want a more complex spice profile? Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice. Pumpkin pie spice is a great shortcut too.

Milk

Milk is the main hydrator and determines creaminess. Whole dairy milk makes it extra silky, while almond, oat, or soy milk keep it dairy-free. For ultra thick oats, reduce the milk slightly or add an extra teaspoon of chia seeds. If using sweetened plant milk, reduce the maple syrup to taste.

Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt gives body, tang, and a protein boost. Use plain whole-milk or 2 percent for the best texture. Dairy-free yogurt works well if you need it vegan. No yogurt on hand? Replace with more milk and add a tablespoon of nut butter for creaminess, though the tang will be milder.

Instructions for Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Prep the Apples

Core and finely dice the apples into small, even pieces so they distribute evenly. Toss with lemon juice to keep them crisp and bright. If you prefer softer apples, microwave the diced apples with a sprinkle of cinnamon for 45 to 60 seconds until tender.

Mix the Oat Base

In a large bowl, whisk together milk, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until smooth. This ensures the spices and sweetener are evenly dispersed before you add the oats.

Combine and Adjust

Stir in rolled oats, chia seeds, and the diced apples. The mixture should look loose because the oats and chia will absorb liquid as they rest. If it looks thick already, add 2 to 4 tablespoons more milk.

Portion and Chill

Spoon the mixture into 4 jars or containers, leaving a little headspace. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight, so the oats soften and flavors meld.

Serve and Customize

In the morning, give each jar a quick stir. Adjust with a splash of milk if you like it looser. Top with walnuts or pecans, raisins, and a dusting of cinnamon. Enjoy cold or warm gently in the microwave for 30 to 60 seconds.

Recipe Variations

Vegan and Dairy-Free

Use your favorite plant milk and swap the Greek yogurt for a thick dairy-free yogurt. For extra richness, add 1 tablespoon almond or cashew butter. Sweeten with maple syrup or date syrup.

High-Protein Boost

Stir in 1 to 2 scoops of vanilla protein powder and add 2 extra tablespoons of milk to balance thickness. You can also fold in 2 tablespoons hemp hearts for a gentle nutty note.

Caramel Apple Twist

Drizzle a teaspoon of date caramel or a light swirl of homemade salted caramel over each serving. Add a pinch of sea salt and sautéed cinnamon apples for a dessert-like treat.

Gluten-Free Friendly

Use certified gluten-free rolled oats. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free, but double-check labels on plant milks and yogurt.

Warm Apple Pie Style

Microwave each jar with a splash of milk for 45 to 60 seconds, then top with toasted pecans and an extra sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg. The gentle heat amplifies the apple aroma.

Serving Suggestions

Make it a complete breakfast with a side of scrambled eggs or a turkey sausage patty for extra protein. Garnish the oats with toasted walnuts, a few raisins, and a pinch of cinnamon. Fresh berries or sliced banana add brightness, and a hot cup of coffee or chai rounds out the cozy vibes.

Storage and Reheating

Store the oats in airtight jars in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For a warm bowl, microwave a single serving for 30 to 60 seconds, stirring halfway, and add a splash of milk to loosen. Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months, leaving headspace for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge and stir well before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats (FAQ)

Q: Can I use steel-cut oats for overnight oats?
A: Not traditional steel-cut oats. Quick-cooking steel-cut oats can work with a 12-hour soak, but the texture will be chewier. Rolled oats give the best creamy result.

Q: How long do overnight oats need to sit before eating?
A: Four hours is the minimum, but 8 to 12 hours is ideal for full hydration and flavor. The texture improves by the next morning.

Q: Can I make these without yogurt?
A: Yes. Replace the yogurt with an equal amount of milk and add 1 tablespoon nut butter or an extra teaspoon of chia for creaminess. The flavor will be less tangy but still delicious.

Q: Do I need to peel the apples?
A: No. The peel adds color, fiber, and a bit of texture. If you prefer a softer, uniform bite, peel them or grate the apples instead of dicing.

Warm, cozy, and effortlessly satisfying, these Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats bring apple pie comfort to your weekday mornings. Give them a try, then leave a comment and rating to share how you topped yours.