These Sugar Cookie Overnight Oats are a tasty way to start your day! Mixing oats with milk, sweeteners, and a hint of vanilla gives you the delicious taste of cookies in a healthy way.
I love how easy these oats are to make! Just stir everything together the night before, and in the morning, you’re ready to enjoy a breakfast that feels like a treat. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Use rolled oats for a chewy texture. If you prefer something quicker, instant oats can work, but they may become mushy. Steel-cut oats are not recommended since they need more cooking time.
Milk: Feel free to use any type of milk—cow’s milk, almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk! Each will add a slightly different flavor. If you’re looking for extra creaminess, oat milk is a great choice.
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and protein. If you’re dairy-free, try coconut yogurt or any plant-based yogurt. For a lighter option, you could use a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Both sweeteners are great. If you want lower sugar, agave syrup or Stevia work well too. Just adjust to taste, as these may be sweeter.
Vanilla & Almond Extracts: These flavor the oats. If you’re out of almond extract, don’t worry! Just add a little more vanilla or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for a cozy taste.
What’s the Best Way to Prep Overnight Oats?
Making overnight oats is a simple process, but a few steps ensure they turn out great every time!
- Mix dry and wet ingredients thoroughly in your container to avoid clumps. This helps the oats absorb flavors evenly.
- Cover tightly to keep moisture in, and make sure to refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight for the best texture.
- When you’re ready to eat, give them a good stir. If they’re too thick, a dash of milk can help loosen them up.
- Garnish as desired! Adding sugar cookies on top not only looks appealing but also brings that fun cookie crunch.
By following these tips, your overnight oats will be delicious and satisfying. Enjoy your breakfast treat!
How to Make Sugar Cookie Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup plain or vanilla Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for sugar cookie flavor)
- Pinch of salt
For the Garnish:
- Sugar cookies, for garnish (whole or crumbled)
- Fresh or frozen berries, for garnish (optional)
- Edible flowers or herbs for decoration (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the oats. Just mix everything together, then let them sit in the fridge overnight or for at least 4 hours. This way, the oats will soak up all the delicious flavors and get nice and soft.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a jar or a bowl, add the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, almond extract (if you’re using it), and a pinch of salt. This mixture will give your oats that lovely cookie flavor!
2. Mix Well:
Stir everything together until it’s well combined. Make sure no clumps of oats or yogurt are left. This will help the oats soak up all the ingredients evenly.
3. Chill in the Fridge:
Cover your container and place it in the refrigerator overnight or for at least 4 hours. This chilling time allows the oats to absorb the milk and flavors, achieving the perfect creamy texture.
4. Morning Prep:
When you’re ready to eat, take out the oats. Give them a gentle stir. If you find them too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer your oats to a serving glass if you like that look, or enjoy them straight from the container. Top them with sugar cookies, fresh or frozen berries, and any edible flowers or herbs you want to make it pretty!
6. Enjoy!
Your sweet, cookie-flavored breakfast oats are ready to enjoy. It’s a delightful start to your day, combining the best of healthy breakfast and cookie indulgence!
This recipe beautifully captures the sweet, buttery cookie essence thanks to the flavors from the extracts, while the creamy yogurt and oats make for a fulfilling meal. Enjoy eating your dessert-like breakfast!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats, but be aware that they will absorb liquid faster and may become mushy. If you prefer a chewier texture, stick with rolled oats.
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt?
If you need a substitute for Greek yogurt, you can use any plain or vanilla yogurt—dairy or non-dairy. Coconut yogurt is a great dairy-free alternative that adds a nice flavor too!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Overnight Oats?
Leftover overnight oats can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re in an airtight container. If they thicken too much, stir in a little milk before eating.
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your oats with toppings like nuts, seeds, chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor. Let your creativity shine!