If you crave a warm, sweet breakfast but are short on time, I’ve got the perfect solution for you: Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats! This easy recipe transforms your favorite cinnamon roll flavors into a healthy, make-ahead meal. With simple ingredients like rolled oats, chia seeds, and maple syrup, you’ll enjoy a filling breakfast that will start your day right. Let’s dive into how to make this tasty treat!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 10 minutes to prep, making it perfect for busy mornings.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like nuts or dried fruit for a personal touch.
- Healthy Start: Packed with fiber and protein, these oats are a nutritious breakfast option.
- Make-Ahead: With overnight soaking, you can prepare several jars at once for a week of easy breakfasts.
Ingredients
Primary Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
Cinnamon roll overnight oats start with rolled oats. They are the base of this dish. You can use any type of milk. Dairy or non-dairy works well. Chia seeds add a nice texture. They also help the oats thicken.
Flavor Enhancers
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
Vanilla extract gives a sweet aroma. Ground cinnamon adds warmth and spice. Maple syrup or honey makes it sweet. You can adjust these to your taste.
Optional Add-Ins
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup raisins or pecans
- Pinch of salt
Greek yogurt makes the oats creamier. You can add raisins or pecans for extra flavor. A pinch of salt balances the sweetness. Feel free to mix and match these add-ins. They will make your oats unique!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chia seeds, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix these dry ingredients well. This step helps evenly distribute the flavors.
2. In another bowl, mix the milk, vanilla extract, and maple syrup. Stir until everything blends nicely. This mixture adds creaminess and sweetness to your oats.
Final Mixing
3. Pour the milk mixture over the dry ingredients. Gently stir to combine everything. Make sure no dry oats are left.
4. If you want a creamier texture, fold in the Greek yogurt now. You can also add the raisins or pecans for extra flavor and crunch.
Storage Instructions
5. Divide your oat mixture into jars or airtight containers. Seal each jar tightly. This keeps the oats fresh.
6. Refrigerate the jars overnight. Letting them soak for at least four hours softens the oats. In the morning, stir the oats. If you like, drizzle additional maple syrup or sprinkle more cinnamon on top.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Best Texture
To get the best texture for your overnight oats, follow these tips:
- Oats soaking time: Let your oats soak for at least 4 hours or overnight. This makes them soft and creamy.
- Adjusting liquid ratios: Use equal parts oats and liquid for a thick texture. If you want it creamier, add more milk or yogurt.
Customization Ideas
You can make your cinnamon roll overnight oats unique. Here are some ideas:
- Swapping sweeteners: Try using agave syrup or coconut sugar instead of maple syrup or honey. This changes the taste while keeping it sweet.
- Adding fruits: Toss in sliced bananas, apples, or berries. This adds extra flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Make your oats even more delicious with these serving tips:
- Drizzling extra syrup: A light drizzle of maple syrup on top adds sweetness and flavor.
- Adding toppings: Sprinkle nuts, seeds, or extra cinnamon for a delightful crunch. You can also add a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess.
Pro Tips
- Use Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: Quick oats can become mushy, while rolled oats hold their texture better when soaked overnight.
- Customize Your Sweetness: Adjust the amount of maple syrup or honey to suit your taste; you can always add more in the morning if needed.
- Add Fresh Fruits: Consider adding fresh fruits like sliced bananas or berries in the morning for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Meal Prep for the Week: Make multiple jars at once; they can last in the fridge for up to 5 days, making for easy breakfasts all week long.

Variations
Flavor Variations
You can change the flavor of your cinnamon roll overnight oats in fun ways. Here are two tasty ideas:
- Pumpkin spice overnight oats: Swap some cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice. This gives a warm, fall flavor.
- Chocolate chip cinnamon roll oats: Stir in mini chocolate chips before soaking. This adds a sweet twist to your oats.
Dietary Adjustments
You can easily adapt this recipe to fit your diet. Here are two popular options:
- Vegan adaptation: Use plant-based milk and skip the Greek yogurt. Replace honey with maple syrup too.
- Gluten-free options: Choose gluten-free oats. This way, everyone can enjoy your delicious overnight oats.
Seasonal Twists
You can make your oats match the season with these ideas:
- Fall-inspired versions: Add chopped apples and nuts. This gives a crunchy texture.
- Holiday cinnamon roll oats: Mix in some nutmeg and a dash of vanilla. This makes your oats feel festive and special.
Storage Info
How to Store Overnight Oats
To keep your cinnamon roll overnight oats fresh, use airtight containers. Glass jars or BPA-free plastic containers work great. Make sure they seal tightly. This helps prevent spills and keeps flavors strong.
Refrigerate your oats right after preparing them. They need at least 4 hours to soak. Overnight is best. The oats absorb the liquid and become soft and tasty.
Freezing
Can you freeze overnight oats? Yes, you can! Freezing is a good option if you want to make a larger batch.
To freeze, divide the oats into portions and store them in freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top, as the oats may expand.
How to defrost properly? Move the oats from the freezer to the fridge a day before you want to eat them. This helps them thaw slowly. You can also heat them in the microwave if you’re in a hurry.
Shelf Life Tips
How long do they last in the fridge? Cinnamon roll overnight oats stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. Check them before eating.
Signs of spoilage include a sour smell or unusual texture. If the oats look slimy or have mold, toss them. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
FAQs
What can I use instead of rolled oats?
You can use quick oats if you need a faster option. They will soak up liquid quickly. Steel-cut oats work too, but they need more time to soften. If you want gluten-free oats, use certified gluten-free rolled oats.
Can I make these without chia seeds?
Yes, you can skip the chia seeds. They help with texture and add some fiber. If you want a thicker mix, you can add another tablespoon of oats instead.
How long do cinnamon roll overnight oats last in the fridge?
These oats last about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Make sure to keep them sealed in jars or containers. If you notice any off smell or change in color, it’s best to toss them.
Can I heat up overnight oats after they’ve been refrigerated?
Yes, you can heat them up! Just put them in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Stir well to make sure they heat evenly. You can also add a splash of milk to make them creamier when warming.
This article covered how to make overnight oats, from ingredients to variations. You learned about the main items, flavor enhancers, and optional add-ins. We discussed key steps for mixing and storage tips. You now have ideas to customize your oats for any season.
Incorporate these ideas for easy breakfasts. Enjoy experimenting until you find your perfect blen

Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 1 2 Greek yogurt (optional)
- 1 4 cup raisins or pecans (optional)
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chia seeds, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine.
- In a separate bowl, mix the milk, vanilla extract, and maple syrup until well blended.
- Pour the milk mixture over the oat mixture and stir gently to combine.
- Fold in the Greek yogurt for a creamier texture, if using, then add the raisins or pecans.
- Divide the mixture into jars or airtight containers. Seal them tightly and refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours) to allow the oats to soak and soften.
- In the morning, give the oats a good stir. If desired, drizzle with additional maple syrup and sprinkle with extra cinnamon for a finishing touch.
- Serve cold or warm in the microwave for a short time if preferred.


