If you love all the flavors of a gooey bakery-style cinnamon bun but crave a fuss-free breakfast, these Cinnamon Bun Overnight Oats are about to become your new favorite obsession. Creamy oats mingle with swirls of spiced maple sweetness, tangy cream cheese, and a sprinkle of nuts for crunch—capturing everything you love about a fresh cinnamon roll, but in a wholesome, make-ahead breakfast. Whether you’re rushing out the door or lingering over your first cup of coffee, this recipe brings the ultimate comfort food vibes without any early-morning effort.

Cinnamon Bun Overnight Oats Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things delightfully simple, relying on staple pantry ingredients that pack a major punch when it comes to taste, texture, and satisfaction. Each component is chosen to mimic those classic cinnamon bun flavors and deliver a breakfast that feels indulgent, yet nourishing.

Old-fashioned rolled oats: The hearty base for our overnight oats, these soak up all the cozy flavors and hold their shape beautifully.
Chia seeds: These magical little seeds create a pudding-like texture and provide a satisfying nutritional boost.
Unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice): Adds creaminess and keeps things light; feel free to use your favorite dairy or non-dairy milk.
Plain Greek yogurt: Lends a slight tang and lovely richness, enhancing the cinnamon bun illusion.
Maple syrup or honey: Sweetens the oats in a natural, gentle way while echoing the gooey filling of a cinnamon bun.
Ground cinnamon: The star of the show, delivering that signature warmth and aroma.
Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors and gives the oats that nostalgic bakery scent.
Cream cheese, softened: The secret ingredient for swirly decadence, reminiscent of classic cream cheese frosting.
Powdered sugar: Just a hint for sweetening the cream cheese—a little goes a long way.
Chopped pecans (optional): Finish your oats with a nutty crunch, or leave them out for a nut-free version.

How to Make Cinnamon Bun Overnight Oats

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients

Start by grabbing a mason jar or any airtight container that you love using for breakfasts on-the-go. Into your jar, add the old-fashioned rolled oats, chia seeds, and ground cinnamon. If you like a hint of salt to balance the sweetness, sprinkle a tiny pinch in now. Give everything a quick stir so that the chia seeds and cinnamon are evenly distributed—these are the foundation of your Cinnamon Bun Overnight Oats.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Next, pour in the unsweetened almond milk, Greek yogurt, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla extract. Use a spoon to stir everything together until the mixture is creamy, well combined, and the oats look thoroughly coated. You’re setting the stage for the flavors to mingle and get cozy overnight.

Step 3: Create the Cream Cheese Swirl

In a small bowl, blend your softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar until you have a smooth, sweetened spread. Dot this creamy goodness over your oat mixture, then use a spoon or even a chopstick to gently swirl it through. Think of this step as adding ribbons of “icing” right into your Cinnamon Bun Overnight Oats—it’s sheer breakfast bliss!

Step 4: Refrigerate Overnight

Seal up your jar or container, then set it in the fridge for at least 4 hours, though overnight is best. This is when the oats and chia seeds soften, thickening everything into that perfect, scoopable texture. In the morning, simply stir well and decide if you’d like to splash in a bit more milk for a looser consistency. The luxurious texture and cinnamon bun aroma are worth the wait!

Step 5: Add Toppings and Serve

When it’s time for breakfast, finish off your Cinnamon Bun Overnight Oats with a generous sprinkle of chopped pecans if you like some crunch. For extra decadence, feel free to drizzle a touch more maple syrup on top, too. Grab a spoon and get ready for the coziest morning you’ve had in ages!

How to Serve Cinnamon Bun Overnight Oats

Garnishes

For a classic, bakery-style touch, top your oats with chopped pecans or walnuts, a dusting of cinnamon, and maybe even a tiny swirl of extra cream cheese frosting. A drizzle of warm maple syrup instantly ups the indulgence factor. You can also toss on a handful of raisins or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for delicious variety and color.

Side Dishes

Pair your Cinnamon Bun Overnight Oats with a fresh fruit cup—think berries, sliced bananas, or even stewed apples—for a bright and refreshing contrast. They’re also fabulous alongside a hot mug of coffee or a cool glass of freshly squeezed orange juice. For heartier mornings, a boiled egg or a slice of bacon can balance out the sweetness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Go beyond the basic jar: layer your overnight oats parfait-style with extra yogurt and granola in a clear glass for a Pinterest-worthy breakfast. Try dividing the oats into mini ramekins for a sweet brunch spread, or portion them into shot glasses if you’re hosting a brunch and want bite-size nibbles of Cinnamon Bun Overnight Oats for everyone to try!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’ve made extra, you can store Cinnamon Bun Overnight Oats in an airtight jar or container in the fridge for up to three days. They stay wonderfully creamy and flavorful, making breakfast on busy mornings completely effortless. Give the oats a good stir before serving, as they may separate slightly after chilling.

Freezing

Surprisingly, these overnight oats can be frozen! Portion into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space for expansion. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving and stir well. While the texture may be slightly softer, the cinnamon bun flavor will still shine.

Reheating

If you prefer a warm breakfast, simply microwave your Cinnamon Bun Overnight Oats (minus any fresh toppings) in 30-second intervals, stirring between each. Add an extra splash of milk if needed. The oats will turn extra creamy and the aromas will fill your kitchen, reminiscent of a fresh batch of cinnamon rolls right out of the oven!

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned rolled oats?

Yes, you can substitute quick oats, but the texture will be a bit softer and less chewy. Rolled oats give Cinnamon Bun Overnight Oats a heartier, bakery-fresh bite, though both are delicious!

How can I make these oats vegan?

Easy! Swap in your favorite dairy-free yogurt and vegan cream cheese, and be sure to use a plant-based milk like almond or oat. Use maple syrup for sweetening, and you’ll have vegan Cinnamon Bun Overnight Oats in no time.

Do I have to let the oats chill overnight?

Ideally, yes—letting the mixture rest overnight creates the best flavor and texture. But if you’re pressed for time, four hours will do in a pinch. The oats just need time to soften and absorb all the delicious flavors.

Can I double or triple the recipe for meal prep?

Absolutely! Simply multiply all the ingredients and divide the mixture between jars. Cinnamon Bun Overnight Oats are meal prep heroes—make a batch on Sunday night for effortless breakfasts all week.

Will kids like Cinnamon Bun Overnight Oats?

You bet! Kids love the subtle sweetness and familiar cinnamon bun flavor, and you’ll love how nourishing and mess-free breakfast becomes. Offer them a variety of toppings to let them make their bowl their own.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about starting your day with a breakfast that feels both nostalgic and nourishing, and these Cinnamon Bun Overnight Oats deliver just that. Give them a try—your mornings (and your tastebuds!) will thank you.

Cinnamon Bun Overnight Oats Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 30 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 5 minutes (plus overnight chilling)
Yield: 1 serving 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the flavors of a cinnamon bun for breakfast with these delicious and easy-to-make cinnamon bun overnight oats. Creamy, sweet, and packed with wholesome ingredients, this make-ahead breakfast will become a favorite in your morning routine.

Ingredients

Scale

Rolled Oats Mixture:

1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt (optional)

Liquid Mixture:

1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cream Cheese Swirl:

1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon powdered sugar
1 tablespoon chopped pecans (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare Rolled Oats Mixture: In a container, combine rolled oats, chia seeds, cinnamon, and salt if desired.
Mix Liquid Ingredients: Stir in almond milk, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
Prepare Cream Cheese Swirl: In a bowl, mix softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth, then swirl into oats mixture.
Chill Overnight: Cover and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours.
Serve: In the morning, stir well, adjust consistency with milk if needed, and top with pecans.