Lemon Cheesecake Overnight Oats are a zesty and creamy breakfast treat! With layers of oats, yogurt, and a splash of lemon, they are both tasty and nutritious.
These oats remind me of a refreshing dessert in a jar. I love enjoying them cold—you can have cheesecake for breakfast without the guilt! 🍋😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats are ideal for this recipe as they absorb liquid well overnight. If you’re gluten-free, use certified gluten-free oats instead for a safe option.
Milk: You can use any kind of milk, such as almond, oat, or coconut milk, based on your preference or dietary needs. I enjoy oat milk for its creamy texture!
Greek Yogurt: I recommend plain Greek yogurt for a thick texture. If you want to keep it dairy-free, use a plant-based yogurt that’s also thicker, like coconut or almond yogurt.
Cream Cheese: For richness, cream cheese works great. If you’re vegan, look for dairy-free cream cheese or blend soaked cashews for a creamy alternative!
Lemon Juice and Zest: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavor. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled juice is fine, but fresh is always best for taste.
How Do I Ensure My Overnight Oats Are the Perfect Consistency?
The texture of your overnight oats is key, and a few steps can help you achieve that creamy consistency. First, ensure you mix the ingredients well so the cream cheese combines completely.
- Start by whisking your wet ingredients before adding oats. This helps prevent clumping.
- If you like them thicker, add chia seeds to the mix—they help absorb liquid.
- Cover the oats tightly before refrigerating to keep them fresh and creamy.
Letting them sit overnight allows the oats to soak up the flavors and liquid, resulting in a deliciously creamy texture. Enjoy your oats cold for a refreshing treat!
Lemon Cheesecake Overnight Oats
Ingredients You Will Need:
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or your favorite milk alternative)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
- 2 tbsp cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp chia seeds (optional for thickness)
- A handful of extra rolled oats for topping
- Extra lemon zest for garnish
- Lemon slice for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus a minimum of 4 hours (or overnight) to chill in the refrigerator. It’s a quick task to mix everything together, and then you can let it sit while you sleep or busy yourself with other things!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, Greek yogurt, softened cream cheese, maple syrup (or honey), lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Keep whisking until everything is smooth and creamy. Make sure there are no lumps of cream cheese left!
2. Add the Oats:
Next, stir in the rolled oats and chia seeds (if you’re using them). Mix everything together well so that the oats are fully coated with the creamy mixture.
3. Portion It Out:
Spoon this delicious mixture into your serving glasses or jars, filling them just about to the top.
4. Add a Crunchy Layer:
Now, sprinkle a thin layer of extra rolled oats on top. This will add a nice crunch when you eat your oats!
5. Chill Out:
Cover the jars tightly and put them in the fridge. Let them chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best. This is when the oats will soak up all the yummy flavors and soften.
6. Prepare to Serve:
When you’re ready to eat, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sweetened cream cheese on top of each jar for an extra creamy treat.
7. Garnish with Zest:
Finish off by garnishing with freshly grated lemon zest and a cute lemon slice on the rim for decoration.
8. Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your zesty, creamy Lemon Cheesecake Overnight Oats! They make a delightful breakfast or snack any time of the day!
With bright lemon flavors and a cheesecake-like creaminess, these oats are sure to become a favorite!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
While you can use quick oats, they will give a different texture—much softer and mushier compared to rolled oats. If you’re looking for that creamy yet slightly chewy texture, stick with old-fashioned rolled oats!
Can I Prepare These Oats Without Greek Yogurt?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use Greek yogurt, you can substitute it with more milk or use a dairy-free yogurt alternative. Just keep in mind that the texture might be less creamy.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re in an airtight container. Before serving, give them a quick stir, and feel free to add a splash of milk if they seem too thick.
Can I Make These Overnight Oats Vegan?
Yes, to make these oats vegan, simply swap the Greek yogurt and cream cheese for plant-based alternatives, like coconut yogurt and dairy-free cream cheese, and use maple syrup instead of honey. Enjoy your delicious vegan treat!
