Imagine waking up to a breakfast that’s not only delicious and satisfying but also completely ready to eat. That’s the magic of these apple cinnamon overnight oats. This recipe combines the creamy comfort of oatmeal with the crisp, sweet flavor of fresh apples and a warm hint of cinnamon, creating a perfectly balanced and effortless meal.
Forget rushed mornings and bland cereal. With just 10 minutes of prep the night before, you can have a healthy, grab-and-go breakfast waiting for you in the fridge. It’s the ideal solution for busy weekdays and a fantastic way to start your day on a nutritious note.
Why This Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats Recipe Works
This isn’t just another oatmeal recipe; it’s a game-changer for your morning routine. The combination of textures and flavors is simply irresistible. The oats soften overnight, becoming incredibly creamy and porridge-like, while the grated apple adds a delightful sweetness and texture that pairs perfectly with the warm spice of cinnamon.
Beyond its amazing taste, this recipe is a powerhouse of nutrition. It’s packed with fiber from the oats and chia seeds, which keeps you feeling full and satisfied all morning long. It’s also incredibly simple to prepare, requiring no cooking and minimal cleanup.
The Key Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You only need a handful of wholesome ingredients to create this delicious breakfast.
- Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: These provide the best texture—creamy yet slightly chewy. Avoid instant or steel-cut oats, as they will result in a different consistency.
- Milk of Choice: Unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or regular dairy milk all work wonderfully. Use whatever you prefer.
- Apple: A crisp, sweet apple like Honeycrisp or Gala is perfect. Grating the apple allows its flavor to infuse the entire jar.
- Chia Seeds: These are essential for creating that thick, pudding-like texture and add a boost of fiber and omega-3s.
- Maple Syrup: For a touch of natural sweetness. You can adjust the amount to your liking or substitute with honey.
- Cinnamon: This warm spice is the heart of the recipe, providing that classic apple-cinnamon flavor.
- Greek Yogurt: This is optional, but a spoonful adds extra creaminess and a protein boost.
- Toppings: Chopped pecans, walnuts, or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon are great for adding crunch and flavor right before serving.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats (Step-by-Step)
Making these apple cinnamon overnight oats is as easy as 1-2-3-4. Just a few simple steps the night before, and you’re all set.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a mason jar or a bowl with a lid, add the rolled oats, chia seeds, and a generous pinch of cinnamon. Stir everything together to ensure it’s evenly distributed.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the milk, maple syrup, and Greek yogurt (if using).
- Add the Apple: Grate half of a medium apple directly into the jar. The natural juices from the apple are key to the flavor.
- Mix and Refrigerate: Stir everything thoroughly until well combined. Make sure all the oats are submerged in the liquid. Seal the jar or container and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.

Tips for the Creamiest, Most Delicious Oats
For the best possible texture, always use old-fashioned rolled oats. Their size and texture are perfect for absorbing the liquid without turning mushy. Adding a spoonful of Greek yogurt or a little more chia seeds can also enhance the creaminess significantly.
Be sure to give your oats a good stir before refrigerating to prevent clumps and ensure every oat gets a chance to soak up the delicious flavors. If you find your oats are too thick in the morning, simply stir in a splash of milk until you reach your desired consistency.
Customizations and Variations
This recipe is a fantastic base for your own creations. Feel free to get creative with add-ins and toppings.
- Boost the Protein: Stir in a scoop of your favorite vanilla or plain protein powder with the dry ingredients.
- Add More Crunch: Mix in some chopped walnuts, pecans, or slivered almonds before serving.
- Switch Up the Spices: A pinch of nutmeg or cardamom can beautifully complement the cinnamon.
Storage and Meal Prep Instructions
These apple cinnamon overnight oats are perfect for meal prep. You can make a few jars at the beginning of the week for a ready-made breakfast each day. They will stay fresh and delicious in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
The oats will continue to soften over time, so if you prefer a chewier texture, you might enjoy them best on days 1 and 2. Just give them a good stir before eating and add your favorite toppings.

Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats

Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats: The Perfect Healthy Breakfast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mason jar or a container with a lid, add the rolled oats, chia seeds, and ground cinnamon. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the milk, maple syrup, and Greek yogurt (if using). Grate the apple directly into the jar.
- Stir everything thoroughly until well combined. Ensure all the oats are submerged in the liquid. Seal the container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
- In the morning, give the oats a good stir. If they are too thick, add a splash more milk. Top with chopped pecans or walnuts and an extra sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
Protein Boost: Add a scoop of your favorite vanilla or plain protein powder along with the dry ingredients for an extra protein kick.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, they are very healthy. This recipe is rich in fiber from oats and chia seeds, which aids digestion and keeps you full. It also contains vitamins from the apple and is naturally sweetened, making it a nutritious start to your day.
When stored in an airtight container, these overnight oats will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. The texture will become softer each day, so we recommend enjoying them within the first 2-3 days for the best consistency.
It’s not recommended to use steel-cut oats as a direct substitute because they require more liquid and a longer soaking time, which can result in a very chewy texture. For the best creamy results, stick with old-fashioned rolled oats.
Crisp and sweet apples work best as they hold their texture well. Varieties like Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, or Pink Lady are excellent choices. Granny Smith can be used if you prefer a more tart flavor.
Absolutely! While they are delicious cold, you can warm them up. Simply microwave them in a microwave-safe bowl for 60-90 seconds, stirring halfway through, until they are warmed to your liking.
Your New Favorite Make-Ahead Breakfast
This Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats recipe is more than just a breakfast; it’s a delicious, stress-free way to start your day. It’s a healthy, satisfying meal that’s ready when you are. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s a breakfast staple.
We’d love to hear how you customize your oats! Leave a comment below or share your creations on Pinterest. Happy breakfasting!










