Eggnog Overnight Oats are a fun twist on the classic oatmeal! They combine creamy yogurt, oats, and tasty eggnog for a cozy breakfast that feels like a holiday treat.
It’s like having dessert for breakfast! I love waking up to this festive bowl. Just mix the ingredients the night before and let them chill—easy and oh-so-delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats provide the right texture. You can substitute quick oats but beware they may get too mushy. Steel-cut oats are not recommended for overnight oats, as they need longer cooking.
Eggnog: Use store-bought for convenience or make your own for a personal touch. If you want to skip the dairy, try a nut-based eggnog alternative that’s dairy-free.
Milk: I like using almond or oat milk for a nutty flavor. Whole milk is great if you prefer a creamier texture. Feel free to use any milk you enjoy!
Greek Yogurt: If you’re lactose intolerant, try coconut yogurt or a plant-based yogurt alternative. This ingredient adds creaminess and protein which keeps you full longer.
Chia Seeds: These are optional but great for adding fiber and healthy omega-3s. If you don’t have them, you can skip them or substitute with ground flaxseed.
How Do I Get My Oats Just Right When Soaking?
The key to perfect overnight oats is getting the soaking ratio right. Using equal parts oats and liquid is usually best. Here are some tips:
- Combine the oats and chia seeds before adding the liquid to prevent clumping.
- Make sure to stir well so every oat gets soaked properly.
- Cover and refrigerate the mixture overnight. This allows the oats to absorb the liquid and flavors.
- If you like thicker oats, decrease the liquid slightly; for creamier oats, add a bit more.
These tips will help you achieve a lovely, creamy texture that’ll make your Eggnog Overnight Oats a treat to wake up to!
How to Make Eggnog Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Rolled Oats: 1/2 cup
- Eggnog: 1/2 cup (store-bought or homemade)
- Milk: 1/4 cup (dairy or any plant-based milk)
- Greek Yogurt: 1/4 cup (plain or vanilla)
- Chia Seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Vanilla Extract: 1/2 teaspoon
- Ground Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon
- Ground Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon
- Maple Syrup or Honey: 1 tablespoon (optional, for sweetness)
- Extra Oats and Cinnamon: for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then you’ll want to refrigerate it overnight, or at least for 4 hours. It’s super easy and perfect for a make-ahead breakfast during those busy mornings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a medium bowl or jar, add the rolled oats and chia seeds. These little seeds are a bonus for added nutrition! They’ll help give your oats a nice, creamy texture as they soak.
2. Add in the Creaminess:
Next, pour in the eggnog and milk. I love the festive flavor of eggnog! Then, add the Greek yogurt for a protein boost and creaminess. Toss in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg to make it warm and cozy. If you’d like it sweeter, drizzle in the maple syrup or honey.
3. Stir It Up:
Give everything a good mix with a spoon until all the ingredients are combined nicely. You want to see the oats evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Refrigerate:
Cover your bowl or jar with a lid or plastic wrap and tuck it into the fridge. Let it sit overnight or for at least 4 hours. This is when the magic happens—your oats will soak up all that delicious flavor.
5. Enjoy Your Breakfast:
In the morning, take your oats out and give them a good stir. If it looks a bit thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up. You can eat it right from the jar, or spoon it into a bowl!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Top it off with a sprinkle of extra oats and a dash of cinnamon for a beautiful touch. If you want to indulge more, feel free to add chopped nuts, raisins, or a drizzle more of syrup.
And there you have it! Enjoy your creamy, cozy Eggnog Overnight Oats as a delightful way to start your day—perfect for the holiday season!
Can I Use Non-Dairy Eggnog?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any non-dairy eggnog alternative, such as almond, cashew, or coconut eggnog. Just make sure it’s unsweetened if you prefer to control the sweetness in your oats!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give them a good stir before eating. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of milk to refresh it!
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt?
If you’re looking for a substitute, try using dairy-free yogurt or a thicker nut-based yogurt to achieve a similar creaminess. If you prefer no yogurt, you can simply increase the eggnog or milk slightly to maintain the texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make this recipe vegan, use a plant-based eggnog, non-dairy milk, and a vegan yogurt alternative. Also, swap out honey for maple syrup or agave nectar!
