Looking for a quick, wholesome breakfast that actually feels like a treat? Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats might just become your new morning favorite. They bring together cozy cinnamon warmth, the natural sweetness of apples, and hearty oats—all prepped the night before for a hassle-free morning.

Whether you’re a meal-prep pro or just need something to grab-and-go, this chilled, creamy, and flavorful jar packs both comfort and convenience. Plus, it tastes like dessert but fuels you like a balanced breakfast. It’s a win-win.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the recipe, a few key tools make all the difference for ease and texture:

Glass Jars or Mason Jars: Essential for prepping and storing your oats. They keep the mixture sealed and fresh overnight while allowing the flavors to meld.
Mixing Bowl: Helpful for combining all your ingredients thoroughly before transferring to the jars.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision matters when balancing oats, milk, and spices.
Cutting Board and Paring Knife: To dice apples into bite-sized, flavorful chunks.

These tools ensure smooth prep and consistent results every time. The jars especially are a must—portable, stackable, and ideal for portion control.

Ingredients for the Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats

Rolled Oats: The hearty base of this recipe. They absorb liquid well overnight and soften without getting mushy.
Milk (Dairy or Plant-Based): Adds creaminess and helps the oats swell. Choose almond, oat, or dairy milk based on your preference.
Greek Yogurt: Adds thickness and a boost of protein while giving the oats a creamy tang.
Apples: The star of the show. Crisp apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji add fresh crunch and natural sweetness.
Maple Syrup: Natural sweetener that complements the apple-cinnamon combo beautifully.
Ground Cinnamon: Brings that classic warm spice that makes this feel like apple pie in a jar.
Chia Seeds: Optional but great for thickening and adding fiber and omega-3s.
Vanilla Extract: Just a splash enhances all the flavors subtly.

How To Make the Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats

Step 1: Prep the Apples

Dice your apples into small cubes. If you like a softer texture, you can lightly sauté them with a touch of cinnamon before adding them in.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, cinnamon, chia seeds (if using), and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.

Step 3: Add Apples

Fold the diced apples into the oat mixture, reserving a few pieces for topping the next morning if you like a bit of crunch.

Step 4: Chill Overnight

Transfer the mixture into individual jars or containers. Seal them tightly and refrigerate overnight (at least 6 hours) to allow the oats and chia seeds to absorb the liquid.

Step 5: Serve

In the morning, give the oats a quick stir. Add extra apples or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top before enjoying. They’re great cold, but you can warm them up if you prefer.

How to Serve and Store Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats

Serve these oats straight from the jar for a grab-and-go breakfast or transfer to a bowl and top with fresh apple cubes, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a drizzle of nut butter. If you like them warm, simply microwave for 30–45 seconds to take the chill off.

Store your overnight oats sealed in the fridge for up to 4 days. This makes them perfect for meal prep—just multiply the batch and you’ll have a week’s worth of nutritious starts ready to go.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of oats should I use?

Use old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture. Instant oats can get too soft, and steel-cut oats won’t soften enough without cooking.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely. Swap in your favorite plant-based milk and use coconut or almond yogurt instead of Greek yogurt.

Do I have to cook the apples?

Not at all! Raw apples offer a crisp contrast, but you can sauté them with cinnamon if you prefer a softer texture.

Can I freeze overnight oats?

Technically yes, but it may alter the texture. They’re best enjoyed fresh from the fridge within a few days.

How do I make it sweeter without syrup?

Try mashed ripe banana or a few chopped dates for natural sweetness without added syrup.

Is it okay to eat cold oats?

Yes! They’re meant to be eaten cold, but warming them is a great option if that’s more your style.

Want More Healthy Breakfast Ideas?

If you’re all about simple, make-ahead meals, there’s a whole world of breakfast recipes waiting for you. You might enjoy the Cinnamon Donut Bread, a cozy bake that pairs perfectly with a morning coffee.

The Moist Apple Crumble Coffee Cake is another great pick, especially if you’re into fruity, spiced mornings. For a quick-and-easy option, try the 2-Ingredient Pineapple Cake—a light dessert that doubles as a breakfast treat.

Or go for the Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes if you love a grab-and-go option that feels indulgent. And don’t miss out on the No-Bake Mini Banana Cream Pies, which also work wonderfully as a chilled morning bite.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your breakfast ideas board for later. Just tap the Pin button to keep it handy.

If you make it, I’d love to know how yours turned out. Did you try it with almond milk? Extra cinnamon? Drop a comment below or tag me. I’m always curious how your jars come to life!

For more wholesome and sweet breakfast ideas, check out my daily updates on Pinterest: LadyPlate on Pinterest

Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats are the perfect make-ahead breakfast—creamy, naturally sweet, and packed with cozy cinnamon flavor. This recipe combines crisp apples, rolled oats, Greek yogurt, and maple syrup into a no-cook meal that’s both satisfying and simple.