Apple cinnamon overnight oats are the kind of breakfast that makes busy mornings feel easier and more comforting. With creamy oats, warm spices, and naturally sweet apples, this recipe delivers the flavors of apple pie—without the effort or the sugar overload. It’s wholesome, filling, and unbelievably simple to prepare the night before.
These oats are ideal for anyone who loves a nutritious breakfast that doesn’t compromise on flavor. The blend of oats, yogurt or milk, cinnamon, and tender apples creates a perfectly balanced jar of creamy goodness. And because overnight oats soften naturally in the fridge, there’s no stove time required. Just mix, chill, and savor.
Whether you’re meal-prepping for a full week, fueling your mornings on-the-go, or craving a cozy autumn breakfast, these apple cinnamon overnight oats check every box. They’re customizable, kid-friendly, and made with pantry staples you probably already have.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick and completely no-cook
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Naturally sweet and full of warm fall spices
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High in fiber and protein
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Perfect for meal prep and busy mornings
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Easily customizable with add-ins
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Budget-friendly and made from everyday ingredients
Equipment You’ll Need
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Mason jars or airtight containers
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Small cutting board and knife
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Mixing bowl
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Spoon or spatula for stirring
Ingredients for Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats
For the Overnight Oats
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½ cup rolled oats
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½ cup milk (dairy or nondairy)
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¼ cup Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
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1 tbsp chia seeds (optional for extra thickness)
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1–2 tsp maple syrup or honey
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½ tsp ground cinnamon
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¼ tsp vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
For the Apple Mixture
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½ cup diced apple (Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji)
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½ tsp cinnamon
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1 tsp lemon juice
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1–2 tsp maple syrup
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Optional: a pinch of nutmeg
Optional Toppings
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Toasted pecans or walnuts
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Extra cinnamon
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Raisins or dried cranberries
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A splash of milk before serving
Timing & Servings
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Chill Time: Minimum 4 hours (overnight recommended)
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Total Time: 4+ hours
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Servings: 1
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats
Step 1. Prepare the Apple Mixture
In a small bowl, toss the diced apples with cinnamon, maple syrup, and lemon juice. This not only enhances flavor but also prevents the apples from browning overnight. If you prefer a softer apple texture, you can sauté the apples for 2–3 minutes in a pan—but raw apples work beautifully too.
Step 2. Combine the Oat Ingredients
In a mason jar or bowl, stir together rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, sweetener, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon. Mix until everything is well combined. The chia seeds help thicken the mixture into a pudding-like consistency.
Step 3. Layer the Oats and Apples
Add the apple mixture on top of the oat base. You can also stir the apples directly into the oats, depending on your texture preference.
Step 4. Refrigerate Overnight
Cover the jar and place it in the refrigerator for at least four hours, but overnight works best. The oats absorb the liquid and become creamy without any cooking.
Step 5. Add Toppings and Serve
When ready to eat, give the oats a stir and add any desired toppings like nuts, extra apples, or a drizzle of maple syrup. Enjoy chilled or warm it slightly in the microwave if you prefer.
Tips for Perfect Overnight Oats Every Time
Use Rolled Oats
Quick oats can become too mushy, and steel-cut oats don’t soften enough. Rolled oats hit the perfect creamy texture.
Adjust Thickness
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Want thicker oats? Add more chia seeds or reduce the milk.
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Want thinner oats? Add a splash of milk before serving.
Sweeten Naturally
Maple syrup pairs beautifully with apples, but honey, date syrup, or mashed banana work well too.
Choose the Right Apples
Crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji hold up better overnight without getting soggy.
Make Them Ahead
These oats stay fresh for 3–4 days, making them perfect for weekly meal prep.
Flavor Variations You Can Try
Apple Pie Overnight Oats
Add nutmeg, cloves, and crushed graham crackers on top.
Caramel Apple Oats
Drizzle with a small amount of caramel sauce or date caramel.
Apple Cinnamon Protein Oats
Mix in a scoop of vanilla protein powder before refrigerating.
Apple Walnut Crunch
Add chopped toasted walnuts and a sprinkle of brown sugar.
Apple Cranberry Oats
Mix in dried cranberries for extra chewiness and a tart-sweet kick.
Serving Suggestions
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Garnish with warm sautéed apples
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Add toasted nuts for crunch
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Sprinkle extra cinnamon for more warmth
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Serve with yogurt for higher protein
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Enjoy chilled or slightly warmed
Storage & Meal Prep Notes
Refrigerator
Store for up to 4 days in airtight containers.
Freezer
Overnight oats generally aren’t ideal for freezing because oats become grainy after thawing.
Make Multiple Jars
Prepare 3–4 jars at once for grab-and-go breakfasts all week.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
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Calories: ~320
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Carbohydrates: ~48g
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Protein: ~12g
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Fat: ~9g
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Fiber: ~7g
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Sugar: ~17g
For more quick and easy morning meals, try Pumpkin Spice Overnight Oats, Cranberry Orange Scones, or Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Muffins.
Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, toss the diced apples with cinnamon, maple syrup, and lemon juice. This not only enhances flavor but also prevents the apples from browning overnight. If you prefer a softer apple texture, you can sauté the apples for 2–3 minutes in a pan—but raw apples work beautifully too.
- In a mason jar or bowl, stir together rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, sweetener, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon. Mix until everything is well combined. The chia seeds help thicken the mixture into a pudding-like consistency.
- Add the apple mixture on top of the oat base. You can also stir the apples directly into the oats, depending on your texture preference.
- Cover the jar and place it in the refrigerator for at least four hours, but overnight works best. The oats absorb the liquid and become creamy without any cooking.
- When ready to eat, give the oats a stir and add any desired toppings like nuts, extra apples, or a drizzle of maple syrup. Enjoy chilled or warm it slightly in the microwave if you prefer.
Conclusion
Apple cinnamon overnight oats bring together convenience, comfort, and wholesome nutrition in one simple jar. With creamy oats, warming spices, and fresh apple sweetness, this breakfast feels like a fall-inspired treat while still being completely nourishing. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and ideal for busy mornings when you want something satisfying and quick. With just a few minutes of prep, you’re ready to enjoy a cozy, flavorful breakfast that fuels your day the right way.
FAQs
1. Can I warm up overnight oats?
Yes! Microwave for 30–60 seconds if you prefer a warm breakfast.
2. What type of milk works best?
Any milk works—almond, oat, cow’s milk, or soy milk all create a creamy texture.
3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use dairy-free milk and replace yogurt with coconut yogurt or omit it entirely.
4. Do the apples get soggy overnight?
No—crisp apple varieties stay firm and fresh.
5. Can I add protein powder?
Yes, but increase the milk by 2–3 tablespoons to keep the oats creamy.
6. How long do overnight oats last?
Up to 4 days when stored in airtight containers.