These Salted Caramel Pretzel Overnight Oats are a tasty way to start your day! With creamy oats, sweet caramel, and crunchy pretzels, every bite is a fun mix of flavors and textures.
Who knew breakfast could feel like dessert? I love the little crunch from the pretzels. It’s like a party in my bowl! Just mix, chill overnight, and wake up to deliciousness in the morning!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are the base of your overnight oats. If you’re in a hurry, instant oats can work too, but they won’t give the same texture. Steel-cut oats are not recommended as they need longer cooking time.
Milk: Use any milk you like! Almond, soy, oat, or regular cow’s milk all fit well. If you need a dairy-free option, almond or oat milk are great choices.
Greek Yogurt: This is optional but adds creaminess and protein. If you’re dairy-free, try coconut yogurt or skip it altogether. For a lighter version, use regular yogurt.
Chia Seeds: They help to thicken the oats and add nutrition. If you don’t have chia seeds, you can leave them out or replace them with ground flaxseeds for similar benefits.
Caramel Sauce: Store-bought works fine, but homemade is always a hit! For a healthier option, consider date caramel or maple syrup as a substitute.
Pretzels: Regular pretzels can be substituted for gluten-free versions if needed, and you can use a different crunchy topping like nuts for a different flavor.
How Can You Achieve the Perfect Overnight Oats Texture?
The real trick to delightful overnight oats is blending the ingredients well and letting them sit long enough. Here’s how to get the texture just right:
- Mix ingredients until the oats are fully immersed in the liquid to prevent clumping.
- Let them chill overnight. This allows the oats to absorb all the flavors and achieve a creamy texture.
- If you find them too thick in the morning, just add a bit of milk and stir until you reach your perfect consistency.
Enjoy the process! Making overnight oats is super simple and always satisfying when you wake up to a delicious breakfast waiting for you.
How to Make Salted Caramel Pretzel Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk of choice (almond, cow, oat, etc.)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional for thickness)
For the Flavor:
- 2 tablespoons caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Crunch:
- 2 tablespoons mini pretzels, roughly crushed (plus a few whole pretzels for garnish)
- 1 to 2 tablespoons dark chocolate chunks or chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and requires overnight chilling. A quick mix in the evening allows the oats to soak up flavors while you sleep—perfect for a busy morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Base:
In a mixing bowl or jar, start by adding the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds (if using), caramel sauce, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. Make sure the oats are evenly coated with the mixture.
2. Adding Crunch:
Gently fold in the crushed mini pretzels and half of the chocolate chunks into the oatmeal mixture. This adds a fun crunch to the creamy oats. Be gentle to keep some pretzel pieces whole for texture!
3. Chilling Overnight:
Cover your container with a lid or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator and let it chill overnight or for at least 6 hours. This soaking time lets the oats absorb the flavors and become soft and creamy.
4. Ready to Serve:
The next morning, take the oats out of the fridge and give them a gentle stir. If the mixture looks too thick, don’t worry! Just add a splash of milk and stir it in until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Topping it Off:
If you’d like, you can transfer the oats to a serving bowl. Then, top them with the remaining chocolate chunks, a few whole pretzels for decoration, and a generous drizzle of caramel sauce.
6. Enjoy!
Your Salted Caramel Pretzel Overnight Oats are ready! Dig in and enjoy the crunchy, sweet, and salty flavors in every delicious bite!
These oats are the perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, and sweetness that will start your day off right. Enjoy this tasty treat!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats, but keep in mind they will yield a creamier texture and may absorb the liquid more quickly. Just be aware that the oats might become mushy if soaked for too long.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make your Salted Caramel Pretzel Overnight Oats vegan, simply use plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) and substitute the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative. Ensure your caramel sauce is also dairy-free.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy them cold or gently reheat them in the microwave, stirring to ensure even warmth.
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite toppings like sliced bananas, berries, nuts, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon to customize your oats further!
