Cherry Overnight Oats are a fun and easy breakfast! Just mix rolled oats, milk, and sweet cherries, then let them soak overnight. In the morning, you get a tasty, creamy treat!
I love waking up to this refreshing bowl! It’s like having dessert for breakfast—who wouldn’t want that? 🍒 Plus, it’s super quick to make, so no rush in the morning!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are perfect for this recipe because they soak up the liquid well. You can substitute them with quick oats, but the texture will be softer. Steel-cut oats are not recommended since they need more cooking time.
Milk: Use any milk you prefer, whether it’s cow’s milk or plant-based options like almond, soy, or oat milk. I often choose almond milk for a nice nutty flavor, but coconut milk also adds creaminess!
Fresh Cherries: If cherries are out of season, feel free to use frozen cherries or other fruits like blueberries, strawberries, or diced peaches. They work great, too, and can change up the flavor.
Greek Yogurt: While optional, it gives extra creaminess and protein. If you’re dairy-free, you can use a plant-based yogurt or skip it entirely. I often swap it for a scoop of nut butter for added flavor and creaminess!
Sweeteners: Honey adds a nice touch, but maple syrup or agave syrup are great alternatives. Adjust the sweetness to your taste—sometimes I leave it out for a healthier twist!
How Do You Make Overnight Oats Soft and Creamy?
The key to soft, creamy overnight oats is the soaking process. Here’s how to do it right:
- Combine rolled oats with your choice of milk in a bowl.
- Add Greek yogurt and sweeteners, stirring well. This mix helps the oats absorb flavors.
- Fold in the cherries gently so they stay whole. This keeps their burst of flavor intact.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight. The longer they soak, the creamier they get.
In the morning, give your oats a stir and adjust the texture with extra milk, if needed. This simple method ensures you have a delicious, ready-to-eat breakfast waiting for you!
Cherry Overnight Oats Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup milk (dairy or any plant-based alternative)
- 1/2 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
- 1-2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of cinnamon
- Almonds or other nuts for topping (optional)
- A pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and requires at least 6 hours in the fridge to soak. If you make it the night before, you can enjoy a quick and delicious breakfast the next morning without any hassle!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix The Base:
In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats and milk. Stir well until the oats are completely soaked in the milk. This is the foundation of your overnight oats!
2. Add Creaminess and Flavor:
If you’re using Greek yogurt, stir it into the oat mixture next. Then, add in the honey or maple syrup for sweetness, followed by the vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything well to combine the flavors.
3. Fold In The Cherries:
Gently fold in the fresh cherries, being careful not to break them up too much. Save a few cherries for topping later to make it look pretty!
4. Store and Chill:
Transfer the oat mixture into a clean jar or container that has a lid. Cover it tightly and place it in the fridge overnight, or for at least 6 hours. This allows the oats to soak up all the flavors and become nice and creamy.
5. Morning Preparation:
When you wake up, take the jar out of the fridge and give the oats a good stir. If you like them a bit thinner, add a splash of milk. This will make the oats even creamier and more enjoyable!
6. Final Touches:
Top your overnight oats with the reserved cherries and sprinkle some almonds or your favorite nuts on top for that extra crunch. Feel free to add more sweetener if desired.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Dig in and enjoy your delicious, refreshing cherry overnight oats straight from the jar or in a bowl. It’s breakfast made easy!
This recipe creates a creamy, fruity oat bowl packed with fresh cherries and a mild cinnamon flavor—perfect for breakfast or a snack. The nuts on top add a nice texture contrast to each bite!
Can I Use Frozen Cherries Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! You can use frozen cherries in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them beforehand, as they release more juice when frozen. Simply place them in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water for a few minutes to soften.
How Long Do Overnight Oats Last in the Fridge?
Cherry overnight oats can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. They make for a great meal prep option! Just be sure to keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Can I Substitute the Oats with a Gluten-Free Option?
Yes, you can substitute rolled oats with gluten-free oats if you need a gluten-free option. Just check the packaging to ensure they are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
Is It Possible to Prepare These Oats Without Yogurt?
Definitely! You can skip the Greek yogurt if you prefer a lighter version. If you’re looking for extra creaminess, consider adding an extra splash of milk or a dollop of nut butter instead!
