If you’re craving the sweet, comforting flavor of a cinnamon roll but want a healthy, fuss-free breakfast, these Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats are exactly what you need. Creamy, naturally sweet, and packed with cozy cinnamon flavor, they’re perfect for a quick morning meal or a satisfying snack. Plus, this recipe is fully vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free, making it ideal for nearly any dietary preference.
These oats are not only delicious but also highly customizable. You can boost the protein content with plant-based protein powder or hemp hearts, or keep them simple for a classic treat. And unlike a traditional cinnamon roll, these oats are ready in minutes and let you enjoy that indulgent flavor without the guilt.
Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats
- Flavor: Each bite tastes just like a cinnamon roll—warm, sweet, and lightly spiced with vanilla.
- Texture: Thick, creamy, and satisfying—perfect for spooning straight out of a jar.
- Ease: Minimal prep, no baking required. Just mix, refrigerate, and enjoy.
- Customizable: Add protein powder, nuts, or your favorite plant-based milk to suit your taste.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a few jars at once and enjoy breakfast all week.
This recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves dessert-flavored breakfasts. If you enjoy creative overnight oats, you’ll also want to explore recipes like apple pie oats or birthday cake oats for variety.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity. Most ingredients are pantry staples, and you can swap them based on your preferences:
- Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: These create a hearty texture. Quick oats can be used for a softer consistency, but avoid steel-cut oats.
- Dairy-Free Milk: Unsweetened almond, oat, or soy milk works perfectly. Vanilla almond milk adds extra flavor.
- Sweetener: Coconut sugar or brown sugar brings caramel-like sweetness. Maple syrup or agave nectar can also work.
- Chia Seeds: Optional, but they thicken the oats and create a pudding-like texture.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds a subtle, sweet aroma that complements the cinnamon.
- Optional Add-Ins: Protein powder or hemp hearts for extra nutrition.
- Cinnamon Swirl & “Icing”: Cinnamon sugar and dairy-free yogurt for the classic cinnamon roll appearance and creaminess.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together rolled oats, chia seeds, cinnamon, and sugar until evenly combined. If you’re adding protein powder or hemp hearts, fold them in at this stage.
2. Add the Wet Ingredients
Pour in your dairy-free milk and vanilla extract. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly incorporated. For thicker oats, use a ratio of 1:1.25 oats to milk. For slightly looser oats, increase the milk to 1:1.5.
3. Refrigerate Overnight
Cover the mixture and place it in the fridge for at least 3-4 hours, ideally overnight. This allows the oats to absorb the liquid and achieve that creamy, spoonable consistency.
4. Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, combine cinnamon and sugar for the swirl effect. This simple step gives your oats that signature cinnamon roll appearance.
5. Assemble Your Jars
Spoon 1-2 tablespoons of thickened oats into the bottom of a jar or airtight container. Sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar around the edges, then layer more oats. Repeat until the jar is full. Top with a dollop of vanilla dairy-free yogurt to mimic frosting.
Serving Suggestions
These oats are delightful on their own, but there are plenty of ways to elevate them:
- Add fresh fruit such as berries or sliced bananas for a balanced breakfast.
- Drizzle a little almond butter or nut butter for extra richness.
- Sprinkle crushed nuts or granola on top for crunch.
Stored in a sealed jar, these overnight oats will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days, making them perfect for meal prep or a grab-and-go breakfast.
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats
- Whisk Dry Ingredients First: Ensures even distribution of cinnamon and sugar.
- Adjust Milk for Desired Consistency: Start with 1¼ cups and add more if needed after chilling.
- Layer Cinnamon Sugar Between Oats: Creates a beautiful cinnamon roll look without adding excessive sugar.
- Reduce Sugar if Desired: Apply the cinnamon sugar to the jar edges only for visual appeal and flavor without over-sweetening.
Cinnamon Roll Inspired Overnight Oats – Creamy, Vegan & Gluten-Free
I’m a passionate home cook sharing easy, flavorful recipes inspired by my roots and travels — bringing a splash of joy and global taste to every family meal.
