If you love waking up to something both cozy and healthy, then you’re gonna flip for this Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats Recipe. It’s like apple pie in a jar, but way simpler and ready whenever you are. I first tried this years ago when I needed an easy, no-fuss breakfast, and it’s been my go-to ever since. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want to make it weekly — maybe even daily!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Prep: Just mix, refrigerate overnight, and you’re set for a wholesome breakfast.
- Deliciously Nutritious: Loaded with protein, fiber, and warm spices for a satisfying start to your day.
- Customizable: Make it your own with toppings or tweak ingredients to fit your taste and diet.
- Perfect for Busy Mornings: Grab and go, no cooking required — a total game changer.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient here plays a role in building those apple pie vibes without the hassle. You don’t need a fancy grocery list, just wholesome basics — and I’ll share my tips on finding and using each one to get the best flavor and texture.

- Old fashioned rolled oats: I prefer these for their chewy texture, and they soak up the flavors beautifully. Gluten-free options work great too!
- Ground cinnamon: This is the heart of the flavor — go for good quality cinnamon because it really shines here.
- Ground ginger: Adds a subtle warmth that lifts the spices without overpowering.
- Ground cloves: Just a pinch gives depth; too much can be bitter, so a tiny pinch works wonders.
- Kosher salt: Believe it or not, salt balances sweetness and spices perfectly.
- Apple: I love using crisp, sweet apples like Honeycrisp, but any apple you enjoy eating will work wonderfully.
- Almondmilk (Unsweetened Vanilla): This gives creaminess with a gentle vanilla note; you can swap for any milk you prefer.
- Pure maple syrup: My secret to natural sweetness that complements the apple and spices like magic.
- Non-fat plain Greek yogurt: This boosts the protein and gives the oats a lovely creamy tang.
- Ground flaxseed meal: Adds fiber and a slight nuttiness, plus those omega-3 benefits.
- Optional toppings: Toasted almonds or walnuts for crunch, dried fruit for extra chew, and of course, more maple syrup if you love it sweet.
Variations
I love how forgiving this Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats Recipe is — feel free to jazz it up or tone it down depending on what you have on hand or your dietary needs. Here’s how I often switch it up.
- Vegan Variation: Swap the Greek yogurt for coconut yogurt and use a plant-based milk; it’s just as creamy and delicious.
- Extra Protein Boost: Stir in a scoop of your favorite protein powder — vanilla or unflavored works best.
- Seasonal Twist: Add chopped pears or a dash of nutmeg come fall; it’s like a little seasonal celebration in your fridge.
- More Texture: Mix in chia seeds or hemp hearts to add crunch and keep you fuller longer.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats Recipe
Step 1: Gather and layer your ingredients
Start with a clean 16-ounce mason jar or any container you like for overnight oats. Layer in the rolled oats first, then add your cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and that tiny pinch of salt. Next goes your diced apple — peel it if you prefer, but I usually leave the skin on for extra fiber and color.
Step 2: Add wet ingredients carefully
Pour in the almondmilk, drizzle your pure maple syrup, dollop on the Greek yogurt, and finish with the ground flaxseed meal. The order here helps the oats soak evenly without clumping. Don’t shake just yet; trust me on this!
Step 3: Seal and refrigerate overnight
Seal your jar or cover your bowl tightly and tuck it in the fridge for at least 6 hours, but preferably overnight. This is the magic time where oats soften, spices meld, and apples soak up all that lovely flavor.
Step 4: Stir and enjoy
When you’re ready to eat, give your jar a good shake or stir everything together in a bowl. If it’s too thick for your liking, a splash more almondmilk or a spoonful of Greek yogurt will bring it to the perfect consistency. Add your favorite toppings, and you’ve got a breakfast that tastes like a treat but energizes your day.
Pro Tips for Making Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats Recipe
- Fresh Apples Over Cooked: I always use raw apples instead of cooked—this keeps the oats fresher and adds a pleasant crunch.
- Don’t Shake Before Refrigerating: I used to shake right away and ended up with clumps; waiting until the next day avoids this.
- Make Ahead in Bulk: I prepare several jars at once and keep them up to 5 days refrigerated for a quick grab-and-go breakfast all week.
- Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Maple syrup is naturally sweet but feel free to add more after chilling if you like it sweeter.
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats Recipe

Garnishes
I always go for toasted almonds on top for crunch and a nutty flavor that’s irresistible with the cinnamon and apple. Sometimes I toss in a handful of dried cranberries for a pop of tart sweetness or drizzle just a touch more maple syrup if the mood strikes me.
Side Dishes
If I want a heartier meal, I pair this with a side of scrambled eggs or a green smoothie. It’s also fantastic alongside a warm cup of coffee or chai tea to complement the spiced flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunch gatherings, I’ve layered the oats in clear glass jars and topped each with thin apple slices arranged like flower petals — it gets so many compliments! Adding a cinnamon stick as a stirrer turns it into an instant showstopper.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I keep my leftover overnight oats sealed tightly in the fridge for up to five days without any loss in flavor or texture. Just give it a good stir before eating—sometimes it thickens, so a splash of almond milk freshens it up perfectly.
Freezing
While I haven’t frozen this recipe often, you can freeze it in airtight containers. Just know the texture might change slightly, so it’s best to thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating
If you prefer your oats warm, I like reheating overnight oats gently in the microwave with a splash of milk to loosen the texture. Heat in short bursts and stir in between to avoid overheating.
FAQs
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Can I use instant oats instead of rolled oats in the Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats Recipe?
You can, but instant oats tend to get mushier overnight, losing that nice chewiness that rolled oats provide. If you like a softer texture, instant oats work fine, but I recommend old-fashioned rolled oats for the best balance.
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Is this Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats Recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It keeps really well in the fridge for up to five days, making it perfect for prepping breakfasts in advance during busy weeks. Just make individual jars for convenience, and you’re all set.
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Can I substitute the maple syrup with another sweetener?
Yes, you can use honey, agave, or any liquid sweetener you like — just adjust the amount to your sweetness preference. Keep in mind maple syrup adds a unique flavor that pairs wonderfully with apple and cinnamon.
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Do I have to peel the apples for this recipe?
Nope, peeling is optional. I often leave the skins on for extra nutrients and texture, but if you don’t love bits of apple skin, feel free to peel before dicing.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats Recipe has become one of my favorite easy breakfasts for a reason — it’s comforting, nourishing, and almost feels like a little indulgence first thing in the morning. I love sharing it with friends who usually find it hard to eat breakfast on the go, and they always thank me later. Give it a try; I promise it’ll make your mornings brighter and tastier!
Print
Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 8 hours 0 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving (1 jar)
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats recipe combines the cozy flavors of fall with a quick, no-cook preparation perfect for busy mornings. Rolled oats soaked in vanilla almond milk and Greek yogurt absorb warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, while crisp diced apples add natural sweetness and texture. Sweetened gently with pure maple syrup and boosted with fiber-rich flaxseed, this nutritious breakfast tastes just like apple pie and can be prepared ahead and enjoyed cold or slightly warmed.
Ingredients
Oats & Spices
- 1/3 cup old fashioned rolled oats (gluten free if needed)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Tiny pinch ground ginger
- Tiny pinch ground cloves
- Tiny pinch kosher salt
Fruit & Dairy
- 1/2 medium apple, cored and diced (peeling optional, any kind, e.g., Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup Almond Breeze Unsweetened Vanilla Almondmilk
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup non-fat plain Greek yogurt
Additional
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed meal
- Optional toppings: Toasted almonds or walnuts; dried fruit such as raisins, cranberries, or apricots; additional maple syrup
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add oats, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, salt, diced apples, almond milk, maple syrup, Greek yogurt, and flaxseed to a 16-ounce mason jar or other storage container in the listed order without shaking yet.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Seal the jar and place it in the refrigerator overnight or up to 5 days to allow the oats and spices to soak and flavors to meld. Alternatively, layer ingredients in a bowl, cover tightly, and refrigerate.
- Mix Before Serving: When ready to eat, shake the jar gently to combine or empty the contents into a serving bowl and stir well. Adjust consistency by adding more Greek yogurt or almond milk if desired.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle with optional toasted nuts, dried fruit, or a drizzle of maple syrup as preferred to enhance texture and flavor before enjoying your apple cinnamon overnight oats.
Notes
- This overnight oats recipe tastes like apple pie thanks to the combination of warm spices and crisp apples.
- You can prepare multiple jars ahead for convenient grab-and-go breakfasts lasting up to 5 days refrigerated.
- Feel free to swap almond milk with any plant or dairy milk of choice to suit dietary needs.
- Adding flaxseed meal not only boosts fiber but also adds omega-3 fatty acids for additional health benefits.
- Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup based on personal preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 jar (approximately 300 grams)
- Calories: 299 kcal
- Sugar: 19 g
- Sodium: 204 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 9 g
- Protein: 17 g
- Cholesterol: 8 mg


