Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats are a cozy, delicious way to start your day with all the warm flavors of your favorite cinnamon roll but without the mess or the guilt. This breakfast pairs creamy oats soaked overnight with sweet cinnamon, a touch of vanilla, and a sprinkle of brown sugar to mimic that classic cinnamon roll taste. The texture is soft and smooth with little bursts of cinnamon magic in every bite.
I love making these oats because they come together so easily the night before, which means less rushing in the morning. Plus, waking up to that cinnamon scent and flavor feels like a little morning treat. I usually add a few chopped nuts or a drizzle of honey on top for some extra texture, but it’s just as tasty plain. It’s a great way to enjoy something sweet and hearty without having to heat up the kitchen.
One of my favorite ways to eat these is right out of a mason jar on my way to work or while cozied up with a book. It’s like having the best parts of a cinnamon roll without any of the fuss. If you’re a fan of simple breakfasts that feel a bit special, this might just become your new go-to morning routine.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats work best for a soft but slightly chewy texture. Steel-cut oats are too firm unless soaked much longer, and instant oats can get mushy quickly.
Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and protein. You can swap with regular yogurt or a dairy-free option like coconut yogurt if you want a vegan version.
Milk: Any milk works here—dairy or plant-based like almond, oat, or soy milk. Just choose your favorite for flavor and creaminess.
Cinnamon & brown sugar: These bring the cinnamon roll flavor. Use coconut sugar or maple syrup if you prefer a different sweetener. Adjust sweetness to your taste.
How Do You Get the Perfect Creamy Texture in Overnight Oats?
Soaking oats overnight helps them absorb liquid and soften without cooking. Here’s how to get that creamy, smooth texture:
- Mix oats and milk thoroughly to coat all oats.
- Add chia seeds if you like extra thickness—they soak liquid and create a pudding-like consistency.
- Stir in yogurt for natural creaminess and tang.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
- Before eating, stir well to combine any liquid that may have separated.
The key is patience and enough soak time to let oats absorb the liquids fully. This creates a soft bite like the filling of a cinnamon roll!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl or mason jar – I find a mason jar perfect for layering, soaking, and easy storage.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helps you add ingredients just right so the flavors are balanced.
- Whisk or spoon – for stirring everything together smoothly without lumps.
- Refrigerator – essential for soaking the oats overnight and keeping the oats fresh until morning.
- Optional: grater or zester – if you like to add a touch of fresh nutmeg or lemon zest for extra flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Apple slices & chopped nuts – add crunch and a fresh fruit flavor for a fall-inspired twist.
- Chocolate chips or cacao nibs – stir in for a richer, dessert-like treat.
- Vanilla or almond extract – swap the vanilla for other extracts to change up the flavor profile.
- Caramel or maple syrup drizzle – add on top before serving for extra sweetness.
Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- ½ cup milk (dairy or any plant-based milk)
- ¼ cup plain or vanilla Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp chia seeds (optional, for extra thickness and nutrition)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tbsp brown sugar or coconut sugar
- Cinnamon stick (for garnish)
- Additional ground cinnamon (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of preparation and at least 6 hours (preferably overnight) in the fridge to soak and thicken. It’s an easy, no-cook breakfast you prepare ahead, perfect for busy mornings.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl or mason jar, combine the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, and chia seeds if you’re using them. Stir everything well so the oats are fully coated with moisture.
2. Add Flavors and Sweetener:
Mix in the maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg (optional), and a pinch of salt. Stir thoroughly to blend all the spices and flavors evenly.
3. Add Brown Sugar:
Stir half of the brown sugar into the oat mixture to give it that cinnamon roll sweetness.
4. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let the oats soak for at least 6 hours or overnight to soften and absorb the flavors.
5. Finish and Serve:
Before eating, stir the oats to combine any separated layers. Sprinkle the remaining brown sugar on top for a pretty swirl effect. Add a dollop of extra Greek yogurt for creaminess and dust with a little more cinnamon. Garnish with a cinnamon stick for a cozy touch.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your cinnamon roll overnight oats straight from the jar or transfer to a bowl. Enjoy this sweet, creamy breakfast that’s ready when you are!
Can I Use Frozen Fruit or Add-Ins in My Overnight Oats?
Yes! You can add frozen fruit like berries or sliced apples before refrigerating. Just make sure they are thawed slightly or chopped small so they blend well with the oats overnight.
Can I Prepare Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats Without Greek Yogurt?
Absolutely! You can skip the yogurt or substitute it with dairy-free yogurt or extra milk. Keep in mind, yogurt adds creaminess and protein, so texture and nutrition might be slightly different.
How Long Do Overnight Oats Stay Fresh in the Fridge?
Overnight oats are best eaten within 2-3 days of preparation. Store them in a sealed container to maintain freshness and prevent them from absorbing other fridge odors.
Can I Adjust the Sweetness or Spice Level?
Yes, feel free to add more or less sweetener and cinnamon based on your taste preferences. Start with the recipe amounts and tweak as desired for your perfect cinnamon roll flavor.