Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats is a cozy and delicious twist on your morning oats, packed with warm cinnamon flavor and a hint of sweetness that reminds you of a fresh cinnamon roll. It’s creamy, slightly chewy oats soaked overnight, mixed with cinnamon, a touch of vanilla, and a swirl of sweet maple or honey to bring all the flavors together. The oats soak up all these tastes, making each bite soft and comforting without any baking involved.
I love how simple this recipe is to put together the night before, so all I have to do in the morning is grab a ready-made, tasty breakfast. It feels like a little treat that’s also healthy and filling, perfect for busy days or when you want something easy but satisfying. Adding a sprinkle of nuts or raisins on top gives it a nice texture, which I always look forward to because it adds just the right bit of crunch or chew.
My favorite way to enjoy these cinnamon roll overnight oats is with a splash of almond milk and a few slices of fresh apple or banana on top. It makes the dish feel even more fresh and bright. Whenever I make this, it feels like a warm hug in a bowl, and I know it will keep me energized and happy all morning long. It’s a small morning joy that’s worth waking up for!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled oats: These soak up the liquid well and become soft overnight. If you want a chewier texture, steel-cut oats are an option, but soak longer (8+ hours).
Milk: I like almond milk for a light, nutty flavor. Use any milk you prefer, like oat, soy, or dairy milk. Just keep the same amount to ensure good soaking.
Greek yogurt: It adds creaminess and protein. Feel free to omit or replace with coconut yogurt for a dairy-free version.
Chia seeds: They help thicken the oats and add a slight crunch. You can skip them, but the oats might be less creamy.
Maple syrup or honey: Both add sweetness and a touch of flavor. Agave or brown rice syrup can work for a vegan sweetener.
Cinnamon & nutmeg: Cinnamon is the star for that cinnamon roll taste. Nutmeg adds warmth but is optional.
Cream cheese swirl: This adds the rich, tangy part of the cinnamon roll flavor. You can use vegan cream cheese or skip it if you prefer.
Toppings: Whipped cream or more yogurt keeps it creamy. Nuts add crunch and texture. Adding fresh fruit slices, like banana or apple, offers freshness.
How Do I Get That Perfect Cinnamon Swirl in Overnight Oats?
The cinnamon swirl sets this dish apart and adds fun layers of flavor. Here’s how to do it easily:
- Mix softened cream cheese with syrup, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth—no lumps!
- Layer your oat mixture and then spoon the cream cheese mixture in between layers.
- Use a spoon or skewer to gently swirl the two mixtures together for a marbled look, but don’t overmix.
- Chilling overnight lets the flavors mingle and the swirl set, so it stays distinct.
This step might feel a little extra, but it really brings that classic cinnamon roll feeling to your oats. You’ll see it looks lovely and tastes like dessert for breakfast!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl or jar – I like using a mason jar because it’s easy to store and serve from.
- Small bowl – for mixing the cinnamon cream cheese swirl, making the layering easier.
- Measuring spoons and cups – for accurate portions of ingredients.
- Spoon or spatula – to stir and layer the ingredients smoothly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Stir in chopped apples or bananas for extra fruitiness and natural sweetness.
- Replace vanilla with almond or coconut extract for a different flavor twist.
- Swirl in Nutella or peanut butter for a richer, nutty taste.
- Add a handful of dried cranberries or raisins for added texture and sweetness.
Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Oats:
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup milk (dairy or plant-based like almond or oat milk)
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Pinch of salt
For The Cinnamon Swirl:
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For Topping:
- Whipped cream or additional Greek yogurt
- Chopped walnuts or pecans
- Additional ground cinnamon
- Cinnamon stick for garnish (optional)
- Drizzle of maple syrup or honey
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe only takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus an overnight chill in the fridge (or at least 4–6 hours) to let the oats and chia seeds absorb the liquids and soften perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix The Oats:
In a mixing bowl or jar, combine the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, maple syrup, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Stir it all well so the ingredients blend together.
2. Make The Cinnamon Swirl:
In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with maple syrup, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until smooth and creamy. This will create your sweet cinnamon swirl.
3. Layer The Mixtures:
In your serving jar or bowl, start by adding a layer of the oat mixture. Next, add a layer of the cinnamon swirl. Then another layer of oats. Use a spoon to gently swirl the layers for a marbled cinnamon roll effect.
4. Chill & Soften:
Seal your jar or cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator overnight or for at least 4 to 6 hours. This resting time lets the oats and chia seeds soak up the flavors and soften nicely.
5. Add Toppings & Serve:
In the morning, take the oats out and stir gently if you like. Top with whipped cream or extra Greek yogurt, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top, dust with a bit of cinnamon, and drizzle with maple syrup or honey. For a pretty touch, add a cinnamon stick.
Enjoy your delicious and creamy Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats chilled for a perfect start to your day!
Can I Use Frozen Oats for This Recipe?
It’s best to use rolled oats fresh for the creamiest texture. If you only have frozen oats, make sure they’re fully thawed before mixing to avoid clumps and uneven soaking.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Without Dairy or Yogurt?
Absolutely! Use your favorite plant-based milk and skip the Greek yogurt or substitute it with coconut or almond yogurt for a dairy-free version. The chia seeds help keep it creamy.
How Long Can I Store Overnight Oats?
Store your prepared oats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavor can deepen over time, but the texture might soften a bit more after a couple of days.
Can I Add Fresh Fruit to Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats?
Yes! Adding sliced apples, bananas, or berries on top before serving adds freshness and complements the warm cinnamon flavor perfectly.