Carrot Cake Overnight Oats combine the warmth of carrot cake with the ease of breakfast oats. With tasty carrots, sweet raisins, and a sprinkle of cinnamon, they are super yummy!
Making them is a breeze! Just mix everything in a jar, pop it in the fridge overnight, and wake up to a delicious treat. Who knew healthy could be this fun? 🥕😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: They’re essential for texture! If you don’t have rolled oats, quick oats can work, but they will create a softer texture. Avoid instant oats as they may get too mushy.
Milk: You can use any milk you like, including almond, soy, or oat milk. If you want to keep things creamy, full-fat dairy milk or coconut milk gives a richer taste.
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and protein, but regular yogurt is a fine substitute. For a dairy-free option, coconut yogurt fits well too.
Carrots: Fresh, grated carrots are best, but you can use store-bought pre-grated carrots for convenience. Shredded zucchini could also work if you’re in a pinch!
Chia Seeds: These add thickness and nutrition. If you’re out of chia seeds, flaxseeds can substitute, but they will alter the flavor slightly.
Sweeteners: Maple syrup or honey adds sweetness. Feel free to adjust according to your taste. For a low-calorie option, a sugar substitute can work well too.
How Do I Get the Right Texture for My Overnight Oats?
The key to perfect overnight oats is the soaking time and ingredient ratio. Here’s how to ensure your oats are just right:
- Mix the dry ingredients well first to avoid clumps.
- Use a 1:1 ratio of oats to liquid for creamy oats, but adjust slightly if you prefer them thicker or thinner.
- Chia seeds absorb a lot of water, so don’t skip them! They make your oats thicker and add nutrients.
- Let the mix sit in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight, which allows the oats to soften and flavors to meld.
In the morning, stir and add a splash of milk for the desired consistency. Enjoy your creamy, satisfying breakfast!
How to Make Carrot Cake Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup plain or vanilla Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup grated carrot (about 1 medium carrot)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons chopped pecans (plus extra for topping)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon raisins or shredded coconut
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this recipe is very manageable! It takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You then need to let it chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best flavor and texture. So, with a bit of planning, you can have a delightful breakfast waiting for you in the morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl or directly in a mason jar, mix together the rolled oats, chia seeds, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and a pinch of salt. Stir these together well so everything is evenly distributed.
2. Mix in the Wet Ingredients:
Next, add the milk, Greek yogurt, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract to your dry mixture. Stir everything together until it’s fully combined, creating a smooth blend.
3. Add the Flavorful Extras:
Fold in the grated carrot and chopped pecans. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some raisins or shredded coconut for that extra sweetness and texture. Mix gently to keep the oats nestled nicely together.
4. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover the bowl or jar tightly and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for letting the flavors meld and the oats to soak up the moisture.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to enjoy your oats, remove them from the fridge and give them a good stir. If the mixture looks too thick for your liking, add a splash of milk to get it to your preferred consistency.
Pour the oats into serving jars or bowls, and feel free to top them with extra chopped pecans, a sprinkle of oats, and a dash of cinnamon for that carrot cake feel.
Enjoy your delicious carrot cake overnight oats cold, or warm them slightly in the microwave for a comforting breakfast option!
This recipe makes two jars of nutritious, carrot-cake-flavored overnight oats that are perfect for quick breakfasts on busy mornings. Enjoy!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but keep in mind that they will create a softer texture. Rolled oats give a chewier bite that many people prefer for overnight oats.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Overnight Oats?
Leftover overnight oats can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! You can easily make this recipe vegan by using plant-based milk, like almond or oat milk, and non-dairy yogurt instead of Greek yogurt.
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
Feel free to get creative! You can add fresh fruits like banana or berries, nuts, or a dollop of nut butter for extra flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to adjust for added sweetness as needed!
