Wake up to a tasty bowl of Apple Cinnamon Protein Overnight Oats! This dish mixes creamy oats, sweet apples, and warming cinnamon for a delightful breakfast.
The best part? You just combine everything the night before and let the magic happen while you sleep! It’s quick, easy, and keeps you energized all morning. Plus, who doesn’t love a cozy apple flavor? 🍏✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These provide the base for your overnight oats. They’re hearty and absorb liquid well. If you need a gluten-free option, use certified gluten-free rolled oats or quick oats, which will yield a softer texture.
Milk: Any type of milk works here! Use dairy or almond, oat, or soy milk for a plant-based version. Just keep in mind that each milk adds its own subtle flavor.
Greek Yogurt: It adds creaminess and boosts protein content. If you’re dairy-free, look for a plant-based yogurt alternative, such as coconut or almond yogurt.
Protein Powder: This makes the dish extra filling. Choose a type that suits your dietary needs (e.g., whey, pea, or hemp). If you don’t want to use protein powder, just add more Greek yogurt instead.
Apples: I love using Granny Smith or Fuji for their crunch and sweetness. If you have a different variety, like Honeycrisp or Gala, go for it! Diced pears work well too if you’re out of apples.
Chopped Nuts: Pecans and walnuts add a delightful crunch. Feel free to swap in almonds or skip the nuts entirely for a nut-free version.
How Do I Get the Right Texture for My Overnight Oats?
The texture is key for great overnight oats! Start by mixing rolled oats with the right amount of liquid. If you find the oats too thick in the morning, just adjust with a splash more milk until you reach your desired consistency.
- Mix rolled oats with liquid (milk and yogurt) well, ensuring no dry oats are left.
- Optional: Let the oats sit for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow them to soften.
- Before serving, stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients and check the thickness; add more milk if needed.
Remember, everyone’s texture preferences vary, so feel free to adjust to your liking! Enjoy your delicious, nutritious breakfast!
Apple Cinnamon Protein Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1/2 apple, diced (preferably a crisp variety like Granny Smith or Fuji)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon chia seeds (optional, for extra texture and nutrition)
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey (optional, for sweetness)
- A handful of chopped pecans or walnuts (plus extra for topping)
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, and you’ll need to let it chill in the fridge overnight (or at least 4 hours) to really soak and flavor the oats. It’s the perfect make-ahead breakfast for busy mornings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix Your Base:
In a mixing bowl or a jar, combine the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, and protein powder. Use a spoon or a whisk to stir everything together until it’s well mixed and there are no dry oats left.
2. Add Flavor and Texture:
Now it’s time to add more flavor! Toss in the diced apple, ground cinnamon, chia seeds (if you’re using them), maple syrup or honey, chopped nuts, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything until it’s combined well.
3. Let it Chill:
Cover your bowl or jar with a lid or some plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge. Let it sit overnight or for at least 4 hours. This helps the oats soak up the liquid and become soft.
4. Ready to Enjoy:
The next morning, take out your oats and give them a good stir. If the mixture is too thick for your liking, just add a splash more milk to loosen it up. You want it creamy and delicious!
5. Top and Serve:
Before enjoying, add some extra diced apple on top, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a few more chopped nuts for that delightful crunch. You can eat your Apple Cinnamon Protein Overnight Oats cold right from the fridge or let it sit for a few minutes at room temperature if you prefer it a little warmer.
6. Dig In!
Enjoy your delicious, nutritious breakfast! This bowl is filled with fiber, protein, and that cozy apple cinnamon goodness to keep you satisfied all morning.
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
While you can use instant oats, they will result in a softer texture and may absorb the liquid more quickly. If using instant oats, you might want to reduce the soaking time to just a few hours or enjoy them right after mixing.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Large Batches?
Absolutely! You can double or triple the recipe to make multiple servings at once. Just store them in individual jars in the fridge for a grab-and-go breakfast throughout the week. They stay fresh for up to 4-5 days.
What If I Don’t Have Greek Yogurt?
No problem! If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can substitute it with regular yogurt or a plant-based yogurt alternative. Just make sure to pick a flavor you enjoy, as it will slightly affect the taste!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Your Apple Cinnamon Protein Overnight Oats can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just give them a stir before eating, and add a splash of milk if they look too thick.