Eggnog Overnight Oats are a fun and tasty breakfast! Made with creamy yogurt, oats, and that special eggnog flavor, it’s perfect for the holiday season.
Who knew a cozy drink could turn into breakfast? I love making these the night before so I can just grab and go in the morning. Easy and festive! 🎄🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled oats: Rolled oats are perfect for overnight oats as they soak up flavors well and create a creamy texture. If you’re short on rolled oats, you could use quick oats, but they might become mushy. Steel-cut oats are not recommended as they need longer cooking time.
Eggnog: Store-bought eggnog is convenient, but homemade adds a personal touch. If you want to cut back on sweetness or calories, use a lighter version or make your own with almond or coconut milk, adding eggs and spices for flavor.
Milk: You can use any type of milk, like almond, soy, or oat milk, based on dietary preferences. I enjoy using unsweetened almond milk for a lighter option while maintaining creaminess.
Greek yogurt: This adds protein and creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, you could substitute with a plant-based yogurt. For a tangy flavor, try adding coconut yogurt to the mix.
Spices: Traditional eggnog flavors come from cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. If you don’t have cloves, it’s alright to skip them! Just increase nutmeg for the holiday vibe. A sprinkle of pumpkin spice can work too!
How Do I Get the Right Texture for Overnight Oats?
Texture is key to enjoying overnight oats! To achieve that creamy, soft consistency, follow these easy steps:
- Use the right oats: Rolled oats hold up well against liquids while soaking. Avoid instant oats for best results.
- Add enough liquid: The ratio of oats to liquid is usually 1:1.5. If you find your oats too thick in the morning, simply stir in more milk until it reaches your preferred consistency.
- Mix thoroughly: Ensure all ingredients blend well before refrigerating. This helps the oats soak evenly.
- Cover well: Seal your container tightly before refrigerating to keep out moisture, which affects the texture.
Give it a good stir before serving to reincorporate any liquid that may have settled. Enjoy your creamy overnight oats!
Eggnog Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of ground cloves (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Toppings:
- Chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts)
- Dried cranberries
- Sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful breakfast takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll want to let it chill overnight in the fridge for at least 4-6 hours, which allows the oats to soak up the flavor and achieve the perfect creamy texture. So, get it ready before bed and wake up to a delicious morning treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base Ingredients:
In a medium-sized bowl or jar, mix together the rolled oats, eggnog, milk, and Greek yogurt. This forms the creamy base of your overnight oats.
2. Add Flavor Enhancers:
Now, it’s time to jazz it up! Add the maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, optional cloves, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until everything is nicely combined!
3. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover the bowl or jar with a lid or plastic wrap. Pop it in the refrigerator and let the mixture chill overnight, or at least for 4-6 hours. This soaking time will make the oats deliciously tender and flavorful.
4. Stir Before Serving:
The next morning, take your oats out of the fridge and give them a good stir. If the mixture is thicker than you like, just add a splash of milk to loosen it up a bit.
5. Add Toppings:
Time to make it pretty! Top your oats with chopped nuts, dried cranberries, and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to give it that festive feel.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your chilled Eggnog Overnight Oats straight from the jar or transfer them to a bowl. This breakfast is not just easy and delicious, but also a lovely way to embrace the holiday spirit!
This recipe captures the creamy, spicy essence of eggnog combined with the hearty oats, making for a perfect holiday-themed breakfast or snack. Enjoy every festive bite!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
While you can use instant oats, be aware they might turn out mushy due to their quick absorption of liquid. Rolled oats give a creamier texture, so they’re recommended for the best results.
Can I Make These Overnight Oats Vegan?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the Greek yogurt for a plant-based yogurt and use plant-based milk. Make sure your eggnog is also dairy-free, which many brands now offer or you can make at home.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Overnight Oats?
Leftover overnight oats can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Just be sure to give them a stir and check the consistency, adding a splash of milk if necessary before eating.
Can I Add Other Ingredients or Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your oats with add-ins like chia seeds, flaxseed, or even a scoop of protein powder. For toppings, fresh fruits like sliced bananas or apples, or shredded coconut can also be delicious additions!
