Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats Recipe

If you’re a fan of comforting breakfasts but crave something that feels a little special on busy mornings, you’re going to fall head over spoon for these Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats. This dish captures all the nostalgia of soft cinnamon rolls — the warm spices, the sweet notes, and that perfectly creamy texture — but with a no-fuss, wholesome twist. You can prep them in under ten minutes, let the flavors mingle overnight, and wake up to pure breakfast magic ready in your fridge. Trust me, it’s the kind of meal that tastes like a treat but keeps you energized all day long.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed at how a handful of simple ingredients can work together to deliver the cozy, bakery-style flavors in these Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats. Each component brings something special to the table, from creaminess and crunch to that essential burst of cinnamon warmth. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Rolled oats (½ cup): Old-fashioned oats are perfect for a creamy consistency and just the right amount of chew—choose gluten-free if desired.
• Vanilla Greek yogurt (3 tbsp): Adds luscious creaminess and a subtle vanilla flavor that mimics cinnamon roll icing.
• Milk of choice (½ cup): Whether you go dairy or plant-based, milk keeps the oats perfectly soft and creamy—use your favorite for flavor and texture.
• Cinnamon (½-1 tsp): The star of the show! Cinnamon brings warm, cozy bakery notes to every bite—feel free to adjust the amount to your taste.
• Chia seeds (1 tsp): These tiny seeds absorb liquid and make the oats extra thick while adding a little nutritional boost and a fun texture.
• Brown sugar or maple syrup (2-3 tsp): Sweetens the oats with that classic cinnamon roll depth—maple syrup lends a hint of caramel flavor.
• Pinch of sea salt (optional): A tiny bit of salt heightens the sweetness and rounds out the flavors—totally up to your personal preference!

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats

Step 1: Combine Your Ingredients

Grab a mason jar or any container with a sealable lid, and add the rolled oats, vanilla Greek yogurt, milk, cinnamon, chia seeds, brown sugar or maple syrup, and sea salt if using. Stir everything together until it looks creamy and all the oats are coated in the cinnamon-spiced mixture. This step ensures every spoonful has that classic cinnamon roll essence.

Step 2: Let It Chill Overnight

Seal your container and pop it into the fridge to work its magic overnight. The oats and chia seeds soak up all the flavors, growing soft and thick by morning. Give it at least 6 hours—this slow soaking is what creates the dreamy, spoonable texture that makes these Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats so irresistible.

Step 3: Adjust the Consistency

When you open your fridge in the morning, give the oats a good stir. If they’re thicker than you like (thanks to those hardworking chia seeds!), add a splash or two of extra milk to loosen them up until they reach your perfect consistency—some like them thick, others a bit looser. It’s totally up to you.

Step 4: Drizzle with Cinnamon or Icing Topping

For true cinnamon roll vibes, mix up a cinnamon drizzle by whisking 1 tablespoon of maple syrup with 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon, then pour it over your oats. Want to dial up the decadence? Make a quick icing by combining 3 tablespoons of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon melted butter, a drop of vanilla, and just enough milk to reach drizzling consistency. Swirl it over the top for that bakery-style finish!

Step 5: Enjoy Hot or Cold

The beauty of these Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats is flexibility—they’re delicious right from the fridge, but if you’re craving cozy comfort, warm them for 30-60 seconds in the microwave. That gentle heat really brings the cinnamon aroma to life!

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats

Garnishes

While these oats are fabulous on their own, garnishes make them feel extra thoughtful. Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top, or add a handful of toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch. A swirl of the cinnamon or icing drizzle really seals the cinnamon roll deal! For a fancy finish, a few raisins or fresh berries add both color and juiciness.

Side Dishes

If you want to turn breakfast into a little event, pair your Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats with a cup of fresh fruit, a smoothie, or a hot mug of coffee or chai. They also make a fun brunch addition alongside scrambled eggs or savory breakfast muffins—the sweet and savory combo is surprisingly delightful.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, layer the oats and drizzles in a clear glass or jar to create a parfait effect—those pretty layers always impress! You could also try spreading the oats across a bowl and topping with artful zigzags of icing and a dusting of cinnamon, just like a cinnamon roll from your favorite bakery.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you make a big batch or have leftovers, Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats keep beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Store them in individual containers for grab-and-go mornings, and always give them a quick stir before eating since the oats and chia seeds can settle.

Freezing

Though overnight oats are best fresh, you can freeze portions of Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats in airtight containers for up to one month. The texture may turn a bit more pudding-like upon thawing, but a good stir and a splash of milk will bring them right back to life.

Reheating

If you’re someone who loves warm breakfasts, pop your oats into the microwave for 30-60 seconds, stirring halfway through, until just heated. Add a little milk if they’re too thick. Avoid overheating, as it can make the texture gummy—it’s all about gentle warming.

FAQs

Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?

Steel-cut oats are much harder and won’t soften the same way as rolled oats in overnight recipes. For that creamy, dessert-like result, stick to old-fashioned rolled oats—you’ll get the best texture every time.

Is there a dairy-free option for Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats?

Absolutely! Use your favorite plant-based milk (like almond, oat, or soy), and swap the Greek yogurt for a dairy-free alternative. With these swaps, the oats will still turn out creamy and delicious.

What’s the best type of sweetener to use?

Both brown sugar and maple syrup work beautifully in this recipe. Maple syrup gives a slightly more complex, caramel-like flavor, while brown sugar delivers that classic cinnamon roll sweetness. It truly comes down to your personal preference.

Can I prep Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats for the whole week?

Definitely! Just multiply the ingredients according to how many servings you want, and portion into jars or containers. They’ll stay fresh for up to four days in the fridge, making busy mornings so much easier and tastier.

How do I make the oats even more filling?

If you want a more substantial breakfast, add a scoop of protein powder, some sliced almonds, or an extra dollop of Greek yogurt. You can even stir in grated apple or chopped dates to bulk them up while keeping them naturally sweet!

Final Thoughts

If you’re on the lookout for a breakfast that’s as satisfying as it is simple, you really can’t go wrong with Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats. They’re a fabulous way to start your day feeling cozy and nourished—so don’t be surprised if they become your new morning favorite! Give them a try, play around with toppings, and make this recipe your own cozy breakfast routine.

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