Cinnamon Raisin Overnight Oats a creamy make-ahead oats with sweet raisins and warm cinnamon spice come together in the simplest way, and I love how effortless this breakfast feels. I prepare everything the night before, and by morning I have a thick, comforting bowl of oats that tastes like a cozy cinnamon raisin treat but feels nourishing and balanced.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon chia seeds
2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
⅓ cup raisins
Pinch of salt
Directions
I start by combining the rolled oats, chia seeds, cinnamon, nutmeg (if I decide to use it), and salt in a medium mixing bowl or mason jar.
Next, I add the almond milk, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. I stir everything thoroughly until the oats are fully coated and all the ingredients are well incorporated.
I gently fold in the raisins, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Then I cover the bowl or seal the jar with a lid and place it in the refrigerator overnight, or for at least 4 hours. During this time, the oats soften and the flavors blend beautifully.
In the morning, I give the oats a good stir. If the mixture feels too thick for my liking, I add a small splash of milk to loosen it up. I serve it chilled and sometimes top it with extra raisins, a sprinkle of cinnamon, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 2 servings.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes plus at least 4 hours chilling time
Each serving contains approximately 320 kcal.
Variations
I sometimes swap the raisins for dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots for a slightly different flavor. When I want extra texture, I add chopped pecans or walnuts before serving.
For a dairy-free version, I replace the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative. If I want more protein, I stir in a spoonful of nut butter or a scoop of vanilla protein powder. When I crave extra sweetness, I add finely diced apples for a cinnamon apple twist.
Storage/Reheating
I store the overnight oats in an airtight container or sealed mason jar in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This makes it perfect for preparing multiple servings ahead of time.
Since this recipe is meant to be enjoyed cold, I usually eat it straight from the fridge. However, if I prefer it warm, I heat it gently in the microwave for 30 to 60 seconds, stirring halfway through, and add a splash of milk if needed to maintain a creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?
I can use quick oats, but I find that the texture becomes much softer and less chewy. Rolled oats give me the best consistency for overnight oats.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, I simply use a plant-based yogurt and choose maple syrup instead of honey. The result is still creamy and delicious.
How long do overnight oats need to soak?
I let them soak for at least 4 hours, but I prefer leaving them overnight for the best texture and flavor development.
Can I freeze overnight oats?
I can freeze them in airtight containers for up to 2 months. I thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before eating and stir well before serving.
Why are my overnight oats too thick?
Sometimes the chia seeds absorb more liquid than expected. When that happens, I stir in a bit more milk until I reach the consistency I like.
Conclusion
I enjoy how simple and comforting these Cinnamon Raisin Overnight Oats are. With just a few pantry staples and no cooking required, I can prepare a wholesome, satisfying breakfast ahead of time. The warm spices, sweet raisins, and creamy texture make this one of my favorite easy meal-prep breakfasts that I can rely on throughout the week.
📖 Recipe:
Cinnamon Raisin Overnight Oats
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy make-ahead overnight oats blended with sweet raisins and warm cinnamon spice for a nourishing, comforting, and effortless breakfast.
Ingredients
1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon chia seeds
2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
⅓ cup raisins
Pinch of salt
Instructions
- In a medium bowl or mason jar, combine the rolled oats, chia seeds, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt.
- Add the almond milk, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly until well combined and the oats are fully coated.
- Fold in the raisins and mix until evenly distributed.
- Cover the bowl or seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, stir well. Add a splash of milk if needed to loosen the texture. Serve chilled with optional toppings like extra raisins, cinnamon, nuts, or maple syrup.
Notes
For a dairy-free version, use plant-based yogurt and maple syrup instead of honey.
Quick oats can be used but will result in a softer texture.
If oats become too thick, stir in additional milk before serving.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months and thawed overnight in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 54 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg
