If you love the cozy flavors of carrot cake but want a fresh, nutritious twist for breakfast, the Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe is your new go-to. This delightful dish combines creamy Greek yogurt, hearty oats, and naturally sweet carrots with warming cinnamon and a touch of maple syrup, creating a harmonious blend that tastes just like dessert but fuels your day. It’s incredibly easy to prepare the night before, making busy mornings a breeze without sacrificing deliciousness or health.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe brings something special to the bowl—from rich texture to subtle sweetness and just the right hint of spice. Together, they create a balanced, colorful, and nourishing breakfast that’s as satisfying to eat as it is simple to make.
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and a protein boost to keep you full longer.
- 1 cup milk of choice: Helps soak the oats and chia seeds for a smooth consistency—dairy or plant-based both work beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey: Provides natural sweetness to complement the flavors without overpowering.
- 1 cup rolled oats: The hearty base that absorbs all the flavors and softens overnight for that perfect bite.
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds: A nutritional powerhouse that adds texture and thickness.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the aroma and enhances the overall sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Warms the flavor profile and pairs beautifully with the carrot.
- Pinch of sea salt: Balances sweetness and highlights the spices.
- 1 small carrot (finely shredded): Brings moisture, natural sweetness, and that signature carrot cake element.
- 1-2 tablespoons chopped walnuts (plus extra for topping): Adds crunch and a delicious nutty flavor.
- 1-2 tablespoons shredded coconut (plus extra for topping): Gives a tropical hint and texture.
- Handful of raisins (optional): Adds bursts of sweetness and a chewy contrast.
How to Make Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
Start by stirring together the Greek yogurt, milk, maple syrup or honey, rolled oats, chia seeds, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt in a mixing bowl. Once smooth and evenly combined, fold in the finely shredded carrot, chopped walnuts, shredded coconut, and raisins if you’re using them. This step ensures all the wonderful flavors and textures meld together perfectly.
Step 2: Portion Into Jars
Divide the mixture evenly between two serving jars or containers with lids. Using individual jars isn’t just practical for storage but also handy if you’re on the go. Cover them tightly to keep everything fresh and ready to soak overnight in the fridge.
Step 3: Refrigerate and Serve
Place the covered jars in the refrigerator and let the oats soak for at least 6 hours, ideally overnight. During this time, the oats and chia seeds will absorb the liquids, softening the texture and letting all the flavors marry beautifully. When you’re ready to eat, stir the oats gently and top with extra shredded coconut and chopped walnuts for that satisfying crunch and a gorgeous finishing touch.
How to Serve Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe
Garnishes
Topping your carrot cake overnight oats with a sprinkle of extra shredded coconut and walnuts is a classic way to add texture, but feel free to get creative. A dollop of Greek yogurt, a drizzle of extra maple syrup, or a dash of cinnamon on top can elevate the experience even more. Toasted pecans or a few fresh berries make beautiful, flavorful options too.
Side Dishes
While this dish is quite filling on its own, pairing it with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea rounds out your morning beautifully. For a more substantial breakfast, consider fresh fruit on the side—apple slices or a citrus salad complements the warm spices perfectly without stealing the spotlight.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe in clear glass jars to showcase the lovely layers and colors. For a fun twist, layer the oats with thin slices of carrot and extra walnuts, creating a parfait-like presentation. You can also portion into small mason jars for a breakfast picnic or an elegant brunch setting—guests will love the thoughtful detail.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover carrot cake overnight oats, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them a perfect quick breakfast for busy mornings. Just give the oats a good stir before eating to revive their creamy texture.
Freezing
Freezing overnight oats is generally not recommended because the texture changes when thawed. The oats might become mushy, and the mixture could separate. It’s best to prepare fresh batches every few days for optimal taste and texture with this recipe.
Reheating
This Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe is meant to be enjoyed cold, but if you prefer it warm, simply transfer your portion to a microwave-safe bowl and heat gently in 20-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent hotspots. Avoid overheating to maintain the best consistency and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
Steel-cut oats have a firmer texture and require longer soaking times, so they are not ideal for overnight oats without pre-cooking. Rolled oats create the creamy, tender texture perfect for the Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Just swap the Greek yogurt for a plant-based yogurt, such as coconut or almond milk yogurt, and use a plant milk of your choice. Maple syrup is already vegan, so this recipe is easy to adapt.
Can I add protein powder to this recipe?
Yes, adding a scoop of your favorite protein powder can boost the nutrition but be mindful of the flavor so it complements the spice and sweetness. Vanilla or unflavored protein powders work best when mixing into the oats.
What if I don’t have chia seeds? Can I skip them?
You can skip chia seeds, but they add thickness and nutritional value. If you leave them out, your oats might be a little less creamy and elastic, but still tasty. Alternatively, flax seeds could be used as a substitute.
How long can I refrigerate the overnight oats before they spoil?
This Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe will stay fresh for about 3 days in the refrigerator. After that, the texture and flavors may begin to degrade, so it’s best enjoyed within that timeframe.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about waking up to a ready-made breakfast that tastes like a cozy treat. The Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe is such a gem—easy to make, packed with wholesome ingredients, and deliciously evocative of a classic favorite. Give it a try and watch it become a cherished part of your morning routine or weekend brunch table.
Print
Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes plus overnight refrigeration
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and nutritious Carrot Cake Overnight Oats combine the wholesome goodness of rolled oats, shredded carrot, Greek yogurt, and warm spices for a perfectly balanced, grab-and-go breakfast that’s ready in the morning. Naturally sweetened with maple syrup and packed with fiber and protein, this no-cook recipe is a fresh take on classic carrot cake flavors, making your mornings both tasty and healthy.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cup milk of choice
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of sea salt
Mix-ins & Toppings
- 1 small carrot (finely shredded)
- 1–2 tablespoons chopped walnuts (plus extra for topping)
- 1–2 tablespoons shredded coconut (plus extra for topping)
- Handful of raisins (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, stir together the Greek yogurt, milk, maple syrup or honey, rolled oats, chia seeds, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, sea salt, finely shredded carrot, chopped walnuts, shredded coconut, and raisins if using. Mix thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly incorporated.
- Portion and Cover: Divide the combined mixture evenly between two jars or airtight containers. Seal them tightly with lids or plastic wrap to keep fresh.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Place the jars in the refrigerator and let the oats soak overnight (at least 6-8 hours). This allows the oats and chia seeds to absorb the liquids, creating a creamy, pudding-like texture.
- Serve Chilled: In the morning, give the oats a good stir if desired and serve cold. Top with extra shredded coconut and chopped walnuts for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute milk with any plant-based milk such as almond, oat, or soy milk to make this dairy-free.
- Adjust the maple syrup or honey to your desired sweetness level.
- Feel free to add more spices like nutmeg or ginger for a more pronounced carrot cake flavor.
- Overnight oats can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them perfect for meal prep.
- If you prefer a softer texture, soak the oats longer or use quick oats instead of rolled oats.
