Eggnog Overnight Oats are a festive and creamy breakfast treat! Made with the cozy flavors of eggnog, oats, and a hint of spice, they are perfect for the holidays.
Honestly, who wouldn’t want a sweet and easy breakfast waiting for them? Just mix your ingredients the night before and enjoy a tasty morning surprise without any fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Use rolled oats for the best texture. They soak up the liquid well without becoming mushy. If you’re gluten-free, ensure they are certified gluten-free oats!
Eggnog: You can use store-bought eggnog if you’re short on time, but homemade adds a special touch. If you prefer non-dairy, use almond milk or coconut milk mixed with a bit of vanilla and nutmeg for a similar taste.
Chia Seeds: Chia seeds help thicken the oats and add healthy omega-3s. If you don’t have chia seeds, ground flaxseed is a good substitute, though it may alter the texture slightly.
Nuts: Chopped pecans add a lovely crunch. If you’re allergic to nuts or don’t have any, try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead!
How Do I Make the Oats Creamy and Thick?
The key to creamy overnight oats is the soaking step. When oats and chia seeds sit in the liquid overnight, they expand and absorb flavors. Make sure to use enough liquid for the best consistency.
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl or jar thoroughly.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight; this is crucial for flavor and texture.
- The next morning, if it seems too thick, just stir in a bit more milk or eggnog until it’s how you like it!
Eggnog Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey (optional for extra sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons whipped cream or Greek yogurt (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons chopped pecans (for topping)
- Additional cinnamon for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious breakfast takes only about 10 minutes to prepare, and then it needs to chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can. So, you can whip it up the night before and enjoy it ready to go in the morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a medium-sized bowl or a jar with a lid, combine the rolled oats, eggnog, milk, chia seeds, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and sweetener if you’re using it. Stir everything together really well to make sure the oats are evenly coated with the liquid.
2. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover the bowl or seal the jar tightly and put it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight. This is when the oats and chia seeds will soak up the flavors and thicken nicely.
3. Get Ready to Serve:
The next morning, take the oats out of the fridge and give everything a good stir. If it looks too thick, just add a little extra milk or eggnog to reach your preferred consistency.
4. Adding the Toppings:
Spoon the delicious oats into serving glasses or bowls. Top each serving with a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt for some creaminess.
5. Finishing Touch:
Sprinkle chopped pecans on top and give a light dusting of extra ground cinnamon for that festive feel.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your eggnog overnight oats chilled and enjoy the cozy flavors as a perfect start to your day!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
It’s best to stick with rolled oats for this recipe, as instant oats may become too mushy when soaked overnight. Rolled oats absorb liquid well while retaining a nice texture. If you only have instant oats, reduce the soaking time to 30-60 minutes instead.
How Do I Store Leftover Oats?
You can store leftover overnight oats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give them a good stir before eating, and add a splash of milk or eggnog if they seem too thick.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Just use plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) and ensure your eggnog is dairy-free. Many stores offer vegan eggnog options, or you can make your own using almond milk blended with spices!
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
Feel free to get creative with your toppings! You can add fresh fruit like bananas or berries, shredded coconut, or even a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for an indulgent twist. Just make sure they complement the eggnog flavors!
