Cherry Overnight Oats are a tasty and convenient breakfast option! Just mix oats, yogurt, milk, and juicy cherries in a jar, then let them soak overnight.
They’re super easy to make and perfect for busy mornings. I love grabbing one from the fridge and enjoying a healthy start to my day! 🍒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are great for overnight oats because they absorb liquid well without getting too mushy. If you only have quick oats, you can use those, but they might turn out a bit softer.
Milk: You can use any milk you like—cow’s milk, almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk all work great! If you’re dairy-free, choose a plant-based milk for a creamy texture.
Yogurt: Plain yogurt adds creaminess and tang. If you’re vegan, try coconut yogurt or almond yogurt. Greek yogurt will make it extra thick and protein-packed!
Cherries: Fresh cherries are stunning in this dish, but you can use frozen cherries too. Just thaw them before mixing in! For variety, feel free to substitute with other fruits like berries, bananas, or peaches.
Sweetener: Honey or maple syrup adds a nice touch of sweetness. Feel free to skip it if you prefer less sugar or use a sugar substitute like stevia or agave syrup.
How Do I Make Sure My Overnight Oats Are the Right Consistency?
The right consistency for overnight oats is key! Start with the basic ratio of oats to liquid—generally, 1:1 works well. If you want them thicker, add chia seeds. They soak up excess moisture and give a nice texture.
- Combine all ingredients in a jar or bowl and stir well to ensure oats are fully covered.
- After refrigerating overnight, check the consistency. If it’s too thick for your liking, simply mix in a little more milk in the morning.
- Experiment with ratios! If you like it creamier, increase yogurt or milk.
Cherry Overnight Oats Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup plain or vanilla yogurt
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for thickness and nutrition)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/2 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved (plus extra for topping)
- A small handful of chopped nuts or seeds for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is super quick! You’ll need about 10 minutes to prepare everything, and then let it chill in the refrigerator overnight (at least 6 hours). In the morning, you’ll just need a minute or two to stir and add your toppings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a mason jar or a medium bowl, combine the rolled oats, milk, yogurt, chia seeds (if using), and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and the oats are coated with the liquid.
2. Add Sweetness:
If you like your oats a little sweeter, stir in the honey or maple syrup at this stage. Blend it well so that the sweetness is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
3. Incorporate the Cherries:
Gently fold in the halved cherries, making sure they are spread out evenly in the mixture. This way, every spoonful will have some fruity goodness!
4. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover the jar or bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it sit overnight (or for at least 6 hours) so that the oats can soak up all the flavors and soften.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
In the morning, give the oats a good stir. If it looks too thick for your preference, add a splash of milk to loosen it up. Top it with extra fresh cherries and a sprinkle of chopped nuts or seeds for added crunch. Enjoy your delicious and nutritious cherry overnight oats either cold or at room temperature!
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap cherries for other fruits like blueberries, strawberries, or banana slices. Just remember to adjust the sweetness based on the fruit’s flavor!
How Long Do These Overnight Oats Last?
The cherry overnight oats will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re stored in an airtight container to maintain their flavor and texture. You may want to add fresh toppings right before serving!
Can I Make These Oats Vegan?
Yes, just use plant-based yogurt (like almond or coconut yogurt) and a dairy-free milk alternative. Maple syrup is a great vegan sweetener option too!
What Should I Do if I Don’t Have Chia Seeds?
No problem! You can simply omit the chia seeds if you don’t have them. They help with thickness and nutrition, but the overnight oats will still turn out delicious without them!
