Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats are like your favorite cinnamon roll, but in a healthy and easy-to-make breakfast form. This dish blends oats with warm cinnamon, a touch of sweetness, and a creamy texture that feels just right when you first wake up. It’s soft, cozy, and packed with flavors that remind you of a fresh pastry from the bakery.
I love making these overnight oats because they’re ready to go when I am—no morning rush stress. I usually mix in a little cream cheese or Greek yogurt swirl just like the frosting on a cinnamon roll, which makes it feel like a treat without all the extra work. Plus, the cinnamon gives it a nice spicy kick that wakes up my taste buds in the best way.
My favorite way to enjoy this is topped with a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a handful of raisins for a bit of crunch and extra sweetness. It’s great for a quick breakfast at home or a meal to bring on the go. Whenever I eat these oats, I feel like I’m starting my day with a cozy hug—and who doesn’t love that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats soak up liquid nicely, giving a creamy texture without becoming mushy. You can swap with quick oats for a softer result, but avoid steel-cut oats as they need more soaking time.
Milk: Dairy or plant-based milk works well here. I like almond or oat milk for a subtle sweetness, but use any milk you prefer to match your diet or taste.
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and protein. You can replace it with dairy-free yogurt for a vegan version or skip it if you prefer a thinner texture.
Chia Seeds: These thicken the oats and add nutrition. Don’t skip them if you want that nice gel-like consistency, but ground flaxseed can be a substitute.
Cinnamon: The star spice here! Use fresh ground cinnamon for the best flavor. If you like a spicy kick, a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom pairs nicely too.
Cream Cheese: Optional but I love it for a frosting effect. You can swap with mascarpone, or skip it to keep it lighter.
Bananas: Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and creaminess. If you want variety, try chopped apples or pears with a dash of cinnamon.
How Do You Make the Overnight Oats Creamy and Flavorful?
The key to creamy overnight oats lies in soaking and layering flavors.
- Mix well: Stir oats, chia seeds, cinnamon, and milk together so the oats absorb flavor evenly.
- Use yogurt: Adding yogurt adds creaminess and a slight tang to balance the sweetness.
- Sweeten gently: Maple syrup or honey adds just enough sweetness without overpowering the cinnamon.
- Cream cheese swirl: Soften cream cheese and swirl it in before chilling for that cinnamon roll frosting feel.
- Refrigerate overnight: Let it sit at least 6 hours so oats and chia seeds fully soak and thicken.
- Top smart: Adding fresh banana slices and a sprinkle of cinnamon right before eating keeps things fresh and tasty.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Jar or container with a lid – I like using a mason jar because it’s easy to mix and store in the fridge.
- Mixing bowl and spoon – helpful if you prefer to mix ingredients separately before transferring.
- Measuring cups and spoons – keep things simple and accurate for the best flavor.
- Sharp knife – to slice the banana and any additional toppings you choose.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap bananas with chopped apples or berries for different fruity flavors.
- Add a handful of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for crunch and extra texture.
- Mix in a teaspoon of peanut butter or almond butter for a nutty twist.
- Use caramel or vanilla extract instead of vanilla for different aromatic flavors.
Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup cream cheese, softened (optional, for a frosting effect)
- 1 ripe banana, sliced
- Additional ground cinnamon for topping
- Cinnamon stick (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 5-10 minutes to prepare, with a minimum of 6 hours (or overnight) resting time in the fridge to let the oats soak and thicken perfectly. It’s mostly hands-off after mixing, making it a great make-ahead breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a bowl or mason jar, add the rolled oats, chia seeds, ground cinnamon, and milk. Stir it well so everything starts blending together.
2. Add Yogurt and Sweetener:
Mix in the Greek yogurt, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract until you have a smooth, even mixture.
3. Add the Cream Cheese (Optional):
If you want a nice cinnamon roll frosting effect, soften the cream cheese and either layer it between the oats or swirl it on top.
4. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover your jar or bowl with a lid or plastic wrap, then place it in the fridge for at least 6 hours to allow the oats and chia seeds to soak and become creamy.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
In the morning, give your oats a good stir. If it’s too thick for you, add a splash of milk. Top with sliced bananas, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a cinnamon stick for a pretty garnish.
Can I Use Frozen Bananas in This Recipe?
Yes! Frozen bananas work great and add a nice creaminess. Just thaw them in the fridge or at room temperature before slicing and adding as a topping.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Use a plant-based milk and dairy-free yogurt, and swap the cream cheese for a vegan alternative or simply skip it for a lighter version.
How Long Will Overnight Oats Stay Fresh?
Store your overnight oats in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Give them a stir and add a splash of milk before eating if needed.
Can I Prepare Larger Batches at Once?
Definitely! Just multiply the ingredients and keep individual portions in separate jars for easy grab-and-go breakfasts throughout the week.
