These Caramel Macchiato Overnight Oats are perfect for busy mornings! Just mix oats, milk, and a hint of caramel flavor, then let them soak overnight.
You wake up to a sweet coffee treat waiting for you! I love adding nuts or fruit on top for a crunchy twist. Who knew breakfast could taste so good and be so easy? ☕🍏
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are essential for texture. If you need a gluten-free option, choose certified gluten-free oats. Quick oats can be used, but they won’t have the same chewiness.
Milk: Use your favorite milk, whether dairy or a plant-based alternative like almond, oat, or soy milk. Almond milk adds a nice flavor, while oat milk can make it creamier.
Greek Yogurt: This is optional but adds creaminess and protein. If you prefer a non-dairy option, try coconut yogurt or skip it altogether.
Caramel Sauce: If you want a healthier twist, consider using maple syrup or honey instead of caramel sauce. For a sugar-free version, look for sugar-free caramel syrup or use dates blended with water.
Espresso Powder: If you don’t have espresso powder, brewed coffee can work too! Just make sure it’s cooled before mixing it in. Instant coffee granules are a suitable substitute as well.
How Do You Make Creamy Overnight Oats?
The creaminess of overnight oats comes from how you mix ingredients and the soaking process. Follow these tips for the best texture:
- Combine all dry ingredients first, then stir in the wet ones gradually to ensure thorough mixing.
- Chia seeds can help thicken the oats and keep them creamy; they absorb moisture similar to oats.
- Let the oats sit in the fridge overnight. This allows the oats to absorb the liquid and soften properly. If they feel too thick in the morning, a splash of milk will help.
Caramel Macchiato Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk of choice (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1/2 teaspoon instant espresso powder or strong brewed espresso (cooled)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for texture)
- Pinch of salt
Toppings:
- Coffee grounds or finely crushed coffee beans (for topping)
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious breakfast will take you about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 6 hours of chilling time (overnight is best!). You can simply mix everything together before bed, and wake up to a coffee-flavored treat ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl or jar, combine the rolled oats, milk of your choice, Greek yogurt (if you want that extra creaminess), vanilla extract, caramel sauce, and instant espresso powder (or cooled brewed espresso). You can also add chia seeds for an added texture and nutrition. Sprinkle a pinch of salt into the mix. Stir everything well until it’s fully blended together!
2. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover the bowl or jar and place it in the refrigerator overnight, or for at least 6 hours. This allows the oats to soak up all the delicious flavors and soften to a perfect creamy texture.
3. Prepare & Serve:
When you wake up, give the oats a good stir. If they seem too thick, just add a splash of milk to adjust the consistency to your preference. In a serving jar or bowl, spoon in half of the oat mixture. Drizzle a layer of caramel sauce on top, and then add the remaining oats. Finish by drizzling more caramel sauce over the top.
4. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans for a nice crunch and add a little coffee ground dust or crushed coffee beans for that coffee kick. And there you have it! Your sweet, coffee-flavored caramel macchiato overnight oats are ready to be enjoyed. Dive in and savor the delightful flavors!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats, but keep in mind they will create a softer texture as they absorb liquid more quickly. You may want to reduce the soaking time to about 2-4 hours or adjust the milk quantity to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
You can easily make this recipe dairy-free by using almond milk, coconut milk, or any other plant-based milk instead of regular milk. For the yogurt, opt for a dairy-free yogurt alternative, like coconut or almond yogurt, which will keep the creaminess intact!
How Long Do Leftover Overnight Oats Last in the Fridge?
Leftover overnight oats can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they are in an airtight container. If they thicken up too much after storing, you can stir in a little extra milk before enjoying.
Can I Customize the Flavors?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the flavors by adding cocoa powder for a mocha version, or different spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. You can also mix in some fruits, like bananas or berries, for added sweetness and freshness!