Cherry Overnight Oats are a tasty and healthy breakfast you can prepare the night before! Just mix oats, milk, yogurt, and sweet cherries in a jar, and let it chill overnight.
I love waking up to a delicious ready-made breakfast. Plus, you can add nuts or a drizzle of honey for extra yumminess. It’s like a breakfast treat that does all the work for you! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are perfect for overnight oats because they absorb liquid well. If you’re short on time, you can use quick oats, but they may be softer in texture.
Milk: Any milk works here! Dairy milk, almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk will all do just fine. Choose based on your dietary needs or preferences.
Yogurt: I like using plain Greek yogurt for its creaminess and protein boost. If you need a dairy-free option, coconut yogurt is a tasty alternative!
Cherries: Fresh cherries taste amazing, but frozen cherries are also a good choice and often more convenient. Just thaw them first and chop as needed.
Sweetener: Honey adds sweetness, but you can swap it for maple syrup, agave, or even stevia for a low-calorie alternative. Adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference!
How Do You Make Chia Seeds Work in Overnight Oats?
Chia seeds are optional but add extra nutrition and a nice texture. Here’s how to use them right:
- When you mix them in, they absorb liquid and expand, helping to thicken the oats.
- For an even smoother texture, let the mixture sit for a few minutes before refrigerating, so the seeds can start soaking up some liquid.
- Adjust the amount based on how thick you want your oats. You could even leave them out if you prefer!
Cherry Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup plain or vanilla yogurt
- 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
- 1 tsp chia seeds (optional)
- 1-2 tsp honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- A pinch of salt
- Extra oats and chia seeds for topping
- Whole cherry for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This simple breakfast takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll then let it chill in the fridge for at least 6 hours or overnight, making it an effortless and convenient breakfast option for busy mornings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Mixture:
In a mixing bowl or jar, add the rolled oats, milk, yogurt, chia seeds (if using), honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract (if using), and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together well until well combined.
2. Add the Cherries:
Carefully fold in the pitted and halved fresh cherries. Remember to save a few cherries to add on top when you serve!
3. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover the bowl or jar with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 6 hours or overnight so the oats and chia seeds can soak up the liquid and soften.
4. The Morning Delight:
The next morning, stir the oat mixture. If it’s too thick for your liking, simply add a splash of milk to loosen it up to your desired consistency.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Top your oats with the reserved cherries, a sprinkle of extra oats and chia seeds, and garnish with a whole cherry for that perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your fresh, creamy, and fruity Cherry Overnight Oats straight from the jar or bowl!
This recipe yields one serving, making it perfect for a quick and nutritious breakfast any day of the week!
Can I Use Frozen Cherries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! If using frozen cherries, simply thaw them before adding to the oats. You can speed up thawing by placing them in a bowl of warm water or letting them sit in the fridge overnight.
Can I Prep These Oats for Multiple Days?
Absolutely! You can prepare several jars at once. Just layer the ingredients in separate jars and store them in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days!
What Can I Substitute for Yogurt?
If you need a dairy-free option, coconut yogurt or almond yogurt works well. You can also use additional milk if you prefer a lighter texture, but it won’t be as creamy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Great for a quick breakfast or snack anytime!
