Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats with Chia Seeds
Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats with Chia Seeds turn simple pantry staples into a creamy, cozy breakfast that waits for you in the fridge.
Rolled oats soak up milk and Greek yogurt overnight, while chia seeds thicken the mix into a spoonable, pudding-like texture. Fresh apple and cinnamon make it taste like apple pie, without the work or the cost.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and filling: Greek yogurt, milk, oats, and chia seeds create a thick texture that keeps you satisfied.
- Cozy apple cinnamon flavor: Fresh apple, cinnamon, and maple syrup give each bite warm bakery style flavor.
- No cooking needed: Stir everything together at night and breakfast is ready in the morning.
- Great for busy weeks: Make four servings at once and keep them chilled for easy grab and go mornings.
Fabian’s Budget and Health Tip: Buy rolled oats, chia seeds, and walnuts from the bulk bins when you can. You only need small amounts, and bulk buying helps cut waste. Use any crisp apple you already have, even if it looks a little imperfect. The peel adds fiber, color, and a fresh bite.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 2 cups rolled oats (180 g)
- 1 large apple, grated or finely diced (about 1 cup or 180 g)
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds (24 g)
- 1 1/2 cups milk (360 ml)
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (240 g)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (4 g)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (30 ml)
- 1/3 cup chopped walnuts (40 g), for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Apple
Grate the apple for a softer texture, or dice it small if you want juicy little bites. Keep the peel on for color, fiber, and a light fresh crunch.
2. Stir the Oat Mixture
Add the rolled oats, apple, chia seeds, milk, Greek yogurt, cinnamon, and maple syrup to a large bowl or four jars. Stir until the cinnamon streaks disappear and the mixture smells sweet, warm, and lightly fruity.
3. Chill Until Creamy
Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight. The oats should look plump, the chia seeds should be gelled, and the mixture should feel thick when you drag a spoon through it.
4. Stir and Serve
In the morning, stir each portion well. If it feels too thick, loosen it with a small splash of milk. Spoon into bowls and top with chopped walnuts right before serving so they stay crisp and nutty.
Expert Troubleshooting and FAQs
Can I use quick oats?
Yes. Quick oats work, but they turn softer and less chewy. Use rolled oats if you like a thicker bite and more texture.
Can I use steel-cut oats?
Steel cut oats are not best for this exact no cook method. They stay very firm unless soaked much longer, and the texture will be more chewy than creamy.
Do I need to cook overnight oats?
No. The oats soften as they sit in the milk and yogurt. After a full chill, they taste creamy and tender without using the stove.
Can I make this dairy free?
Yes. Use your favorite milk and a thick plain dairy free yogurt. The texture may be a little looser, so let it chill overnight for the best result.
How long do apple cinnamon overnight oats last?
Keep them in covered jars in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Add the walnuts right before serving so they do not soften.
Estimated Nutritional Facts
Per serving, based on 4 servings and plain Greek yogurt.
- Calories: about 380
- Protein: about 16 g
- Carbs: about 51 g
- Fats: about 13 g
Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats with Chia Seeds
Ingredients
- 2 cups rolled oats (180 g)
- 1 large apple, grated or finely diced (about 1 cup or 180 g)
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds (24 g)
- 1 1/2 cups milk (360 ml)
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (240 g)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (4 g)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (30 ml)
- 1/3 cup chopped walnuts (40 g), for topping
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the Apple. Grate the apple for a softer texture, or dice it small if you want juicy little bites. Keep the peel on for color, fiber, and a light fresh crunch.
- 2. Stir the Oat Mixture. Add the rolled oats, apple, chia seeds, milk, Greek yogurt, cinnamon, and maple syrup to a large bowl or four jars. Stir until the cinnamon streaks disappear and the mixture smells sweet, warm, and lightly fruity.
- 3. Chill Until Creamy. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight. The oats should look plump, the chia seeds should be gelled, and the mixture should feel thick when you drag a spoon through it.
- 4. Stir and Serve. In the morning, stir each portion well. If it feels too thick, loosen it with a small splash of milk. Spoon into bowls and top with chopped walnuts right before serving so they stay crisp and nutty.
