If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up to the comforting flavors of a cinnamon roll without the fuss and calories, then you are absolutely going to love this Easy Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats Recipe. It captures the sweet, warm essence of a cinnamon roll in a creamy, healthy bowl that you assemble the night before. Morning just got so much better with this simple, delicious, and nutritious breakfast that feels like a cozy hug in a jar.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to nailing this recipe every time. Each component brings something special—texture, sweetness, or that irresistible cinnamon flavor—that comes together in perfect harmony.
- Rolled oats: Use 1/2 cup of rolled oats (not instant) for the ideal chewy texture that soaks up flavors beautifully.
- Milk: 1/2 cup of your favorite dairy or non-dairy milk adds creaminess; almond, oat, or coconut milk work fabulously.
- Ground cinnamon: 1/4 teaspoon infuses that distinct warm spice, and feel free to add a pinch more if you love it extra cinnamony.
- Maple syrup: 1 tablespoon adds natural sweetness, but honey is an excellent alternative too.
- Chia seeds: 1 teaspoon (optional) thickens the oats and boosts fiber content for a satisfying bite.
- Vanilla extract: 1/4 teaspoon lends a subtle fragrant note that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
- Pinch of salt: Just a tiny bit to enhance all the flavors and balance the sweetness.
- Cream cheese glaze: See the recipe below for the decadent finishing touch.
- Sliced bananas, nuts, or granola: These toppings add texture and freshness when serving.
- Drizzle of almond butter or vanilla yogurt: For a luscious and creamy topping that elevates each spoonful.
How to Make Easy Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats Recipe
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Grab a jar or container and add your oats, milk, ground cinnamon, maple syrup, chia seeds, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together really well to make sure the cinnamon and sweetener are evenly distributed throughout the oats.
Step 2: Refrigerate Overnight
Seal the jar with a lid or plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. Leaving it for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight, lets the oats soak up the liquid and flavors, softening to a perfect creamy consistency.
Step 3: Serve and Top
When morning comes, take your oats out and give it a good stir to combine the soaked oats and any liquid that settled on top. Now comes the fun part—top them off with a creamy drizzle of cream cheese glaze, slices of banana, crunchy nuts, or a sprinkle of granola for extra texture and bursts of flavor.
Step 4: Cream Cheese Glaze Recipe
The cream cheese glaze is the star that brings this recipe from simple oats to a true cinnamon roll experience. Whisk together 2 tablespoons of softened cream cheese, 1 tablespoon of milk, and 1 teaspoon of maple syrup until smooth and drizzle it generously over your overnight oats.
How to Serve Easy Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing is what turns this easy oats dish into a treat. Freshly sliced bananas add natural sweetness and softness, while chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts provide a satisfying crunch. If you prefer something lighter, a dollop of vanilla yogurt or a drizzle of almond butter creates creaminess and richness without overpowering the delicate flavors.
Side Dishes
Pairing this recipe with a fresh fruit salad or a handful of berries can brighten your breakfast plate and boost antioxidants for a balanced, vibrant start to the day. A warm cup of tea or coffee is the perfect cozy companion, bringing out the warming spice of cinnamon even more.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the oats layered in a glass jar to showcase the creamy oats and pretty toppings for a visually inviting breakfast. For a festive touch, sprinkle extra cinnamon on top or add a cinnamon stick for a charming garnish. You can even try layering with a swirl of peanut butter or chocolate chips to jazz it up for a weekend treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Since this recipe is designed to be made ahead, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The oats will continue to thicken, so you might want to stir in a splash of milk before eating to refresh the creamy texture.
Freezing
While overnight oats don’t freeze particularly well due to their texture, you can freeze the cream cheese glaze separately in an airtight container for up to one month. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before use.
Reheating
This recipe is best enjoyed cold right out of the fridge, but if you prefer a warm breakfast, heat the oats gently in the microwave for 30-45 seconds, stirring halfway, then add your glaze and toppings. Just be aware the texture will be softer and less like the classic chilled oats.
FAQs
Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats?
It’s best to stick with rolled oats because they retain a chewy texture after soaking. Instant oats tend to become mushy and lose that satisfying bite that makes this recipe so enjoyable.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Use non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk and replace the cream cheese glaze with a vegan cream cheese alternative or a drizzle of almond butter for that creamy finish.
How sweet is this recipe? Can I reduce the sugar?
The maple syrup adds a gentle natural sweetness, but feel free to adjust to your taste. You can use less syrup or substitute with a calorie-free sweetener if you prefer a less sweet version.
Can I add protein to this overnight oats recipe?
Yes! Stir in your favorite protein powder before refrigerating or add a spoonful of nut butter on top when serving to boost protein content and make breakfast more filling.
How long can I refrigerate overnight oats?
Overnight oats are best eaten within 3 days of preparation. After that, they might lose their freshness and texture. Always keep them refrigerated to maintain safety and flavor.
Final Thoughts
If you want a breakfast that feels indulgent but is quick and wholesome to prepare, this Easy Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats Recipe is going to win your heart (and your taste buds). It’s all about waking up to sweet, cozy flavors without the time-consuming work, which makes mornings something to truly look forward to. Give it a try tomorrow—you’ll never look back.
Print
Easy Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes (plus overnight refrigeration)
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats recipe offers a quick, delicious, and nutritious breakfast that captures the warm, comforting flavors of a cinnamon roll without any baking. Simply mix rolled oats with milk, cinnamon, maple syrup, chia seeds, vanilla, and salt, then refrigerate overnight. In the morning, top with a creamy cinnamon roll-inspired glaze, fresh bananas, nuts, or granola for a perfect start to your day.
Ingredients
Overnight Oats
- 1/2 cup rolled oats (not instant oats for the best texture)
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond, oat, or coconut milk)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (or more for extra spice)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon chia seeds (optional, for added fiber and thickness)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt (to enhance flavors)
Cream Cheese Glaze
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese (softened)
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
Toppings
- Sliced bananas
- Nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
- Granola
- Drizzle of almond butter or vanilla yogurt
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a jar or container, mix the rolled oats, milk, ground cinnamon, maple syrup, chia seeds, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly combined and the oats are fully coated.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the jar or container tightly and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight. This soaking time allows the oats to absorb the liquid and soften perfectly.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the softened cream cheese, milk, and maple syrup until smooth and creamy. This glaze will provide the authentic cinnamon roll flavor when drizzled over the oats.
- Serve and Top: In the morning, stir the soaked oats well to combine. Pour onto a bowl or enjoy directly from the jar. Top with the cream cheese glaze, sliced bananas, nuts, granola, and a drizzle of almond butter or vanilla yogurt to elevate the taste and texture.
Notes
- Use rolled oats for the best texture; instant oats may result in a mushier consistency.
- Non-dairy milk alternatives work well if you prefer a dairy-free version.
- Chia seeds are optional but add fiber and help thicken the oats.
- The cream cheese glaze is optional but recommended for that true cinnamon roll experience.
- Customize toppings based on your preference, such as fresh berries or seeds for additional nutrition.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
