Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats
This fiber-rich, lower-calorie breakfast option is simple to prepare and offers a balanced start to your day.
What Are Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats?
Apple cinnamon overnight oats are a make-ahead breakfast made by soaking oats with liquid and ingredients such as apples and cinnamon in the refrigerator. They require no morning cooking and can be customized with yogurt, chia seeds, nuts, seeds or other toppings depending on your nutrition goals.
Benefits of Apples
Apples add natural sweetness, texture and nutrients to overnight oats.
They provide:
- Dietary fiber
- Vitamin C
- Potassium
- Naturally occurring plant compounds
Their fiber and water content can also help make a breakfast more satisfying.
Whole apples provide more dietary fiber than apple juice, making chopped or grated apple a useful addition to oatmeal and other breakfast recipes. For another easy make-ahead breakfast, try our chia seed pudding recipe.
Benefits of Cinnamon
Cinnamon adds warmth and sweetness to overnight oats without requiring large amounts of added sugar.
It also contains naturally occurring plant compounds that have been studied for their antioxidant properties.
For this recipe, cinnamon is primarily a flavorful way to complement apples, oats and other breakfast ingredients. To learn more about nutrients found in everyday foods, read our guide to vitamins, minerals and micronutrients.
Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats Recipe
Apple cinnamon overnight oats can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated overnight for an easy breakfast the next morning.
Ingredients
Add the exact ingredients and quantities from the existing Tucson Wellness MD recipe card here.
Do not create new measurements if they differ from the existing recipe.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats
- Combine the oats and other recipe ingredients in a jar or sealed container.
- Stir until evenly combined.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight, or until the oats have softened.
- Stir again before eating.
- Add optional toppings according to your preferences and nutrition goals.
How Long Do Overnight Oats Need to Soak?
Overnight oats are designed to soften while refrigerated rather than being cooked.
Preparing them the night before gives the oats time to absorb the liquid and develop a softer texture by morning.
Follow the refrigeration and preparation instructions included with the original recipe.
Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats Topping Ideas
You can customize overnight oats with toppings such as:
- Chopped apples
- Chia seeds
- Walnuts or almonds
- Pumpkin seeds
- Greek yogurt
- Unsweetened nut butter
- Berries
- A small amount of additional cinnamon
Keep portion size and added sugars in mind when adding sweetened toppings.
Click here to download this recipe card!
Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats
Are apple cinnamon overnight oats healthy?
Apple cinnamon overnight oats can be part of a balanced breakfast depending on the ingredients and serving size. Oats and apples provide fiber, while ingredients such as yogurt, chia seeds or nuts can add protein and healthy fats.
Do overnight oats need to be cooked?
No. Overnight oats soften by absorbing liquid while refrigerated, so they generally do not require cooking.
How long should overnight oats soak?
They are commonly prepared the night before and refrigerated until morning. Follow the recipe instructions for the best texture.
Can I make apple cinnamon overnight oats ahead of time?
Yes. Overnight oats are specifically suited to advance preparation and can make breakfast easier on busy mornings.
What type of oats should I use for overnight oats?
Use the type of oats specified in the original recipe. Different oat varieties absorb liquid differently and can change the finished texture.
Can I add protein to overnight oats?
Yes. Depending on your dietary needs, ingredients such as Greek yogurt, milk, nuts, seeds or other protein sources can increase the protein content.
Can I make overnight oats without added sugar?
Yes. Apples and cinnamon can contribute natural sweetness and flavor. Whether additional sweetener is needed depends on your preferences and the recipe.
What toppings go well with apple cinnamon overnight oats?
Possible toppings include chopped apples, nuts, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, Greek yogurt, nut butter or additional cinnamon.
Should overnight oats be refrigerated?
Yes. Prepared overnight oats should be refrigerated, particularly when they contain milk, yogurt or other perishable ingredients.
Can overnight oats help with meal prep?
Yes. Because they can be assembled in advance and refrigerated, overnight oats can be a convenient option for breakfast meal preparation.
