Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats in a Jar

As a mom of three, I’ve learned that mornings can be a whirlwind. Between getting my oldest daughter out the door for school, making sure my son has everything he needs for his day, and ensuring my youngest is dressed and ready, breakfast often gets pushed to the back burner. That’s why our family has fallen in love with Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats. It’s not just a quick fix; it’s a wholesome, comforting way to start the day.

I still remember the first time I made these oats. It was one of those evenings when I was juggling dinner prep, homework help, and laundry all at once. I needed something that would make our mornings easier, and these oats turned out to be a game-changer. The kids love waking up to the smell of cinnamon and the taste of sweet apples—it’s like having dessert for breakfast, but without any guilt.

What I love most about this recipe is the convenience. After a busy evening, I can prepare everything in just a few minutes, pop the jars in the fridge, and forget about it until morning. When we wake up, breakfast is already done! Plus, I feel good knowing that my kids are starting their day with something nutritious. Oats are packed with fiber, apples provide a good dose of vitamins, and cinnamon adds a warm, cozy flavor that feels like a hug in a jar.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for meals that are both delicious and easy to prepare. The combination of warm cinnamon and sweet apples in these overnight oats is a hit with the whole family. It’s like enjoying a bowl of apple pie, but in a much healthier form. The oats soak up all the flavors overnight, so by the time breakfast rolls around, you have a creamy, flavorful meal waiting for you.

For busy parents and professionals, this recipe is a lifesaver. It’s perfect for those hectic mornings when you barely have time to sip your coffee, let alone cook a full breakfast. Just grab a jar from the fridge, and you’re good to go. It’s also a great option for meal prepping—make a batch at the beginning of the week, and you’ll have breakfast sorted for days.

Beyond the convenience, these Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats are packed with nutrition. Oats are a great source of fiber, which keeps everyone feeling full and energized. Apples add a natural sweetness and are full of vitamins, while cinnamon not only enhances the flavor but also offers antioxidant benefits. It’s a balanced breakfast that helps me ensure my kids are starting their day with the nutrients they need.

Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and diced
• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground star anise (or 1 whole star anise, to be removed before serving)
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 cup milk (any kind: almond, oat, dairy, etc.)
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (optional for added creaminess)
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional for added texture and nutrition)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

These ingredients will give your overnight oats a rich, spiced flavor with the crunch of walnuts and the sweetness of apples and honey.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Start by assembling all your ingredients. This will make the process smoother and ensure you don’t miss anything. You’ll need rolled oats, diced apple, honey, ground cinnamon, star anise, chopped walnuts, milk, Greek yogurt (if using), chia seeds, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.

Step 2: Prepare the Base
In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, ground cinnamon, ground star anise (or add the whole star anise), and a pinch of salt. Stir to evenly distribute the spices through the oats. The star anise adds a unique depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the apples.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients
Next, pour in the milk, honey, and vanilla extract. If you’re using Greek yogurt, fold it in now. The yogurt adds a creamy texture and boosts the protein content, making the oats more filling. Mix everything together until the oats are fully coated with the wet ingredients.

Step 4: Incorporate the Apple and Walnuts
Gently fold in the diced apple and chopped walnuts. The apple will soften as it soaks overnight, infusing the oats with a natural sweetness. The walnuts add a nice crunch that contrasts with the creamy oats. If you prefer your walnuts to be less crunchy, you can lightly toast them before adding.

Step 5: Layer in Jars
Spoon the mixture into individual jars or airtight containers. I like to use mason jars because they’re easy to store and take on the go. If you’re using whole star anise, place one in each jar for a stronger flavor. Just remember to remove it before eating!

Step 6: Chill Overnight
Seal the jars and place them in the refrigerator. Let the oats soak for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best. The longer they soak, the creamier they become as the oats absorb the milk and flavors meld together.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
In the morning, give the oats a good stir before serving. If they’re too thick, you can add a splash of milk to loosen them up. Top with additional chopped walnuts, a drizzle of honey, or even a few fresh apple slices for extra texture and flavor.

Customization Options

• Nuts: Swap the walnuts for almonds, pecans, or even pistachios for a different flavor profile.
• Milk: Use almond milk, oat milk, coconut milk, or any other milk alternative if you’re avoiding dairy.
• Fruit: Try adding dried cranberries, raisins, or sliced bananas for extra sweetness.
• Spices: Experiment with other spices like nutmeg or ginger for a different twist.

Tips for Storing and Serving

Storing Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store your overnight oats in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This makes them perfect for meal prepping at the beginning of the week.
• Containers: Use airtight jars or containers to keep the oats fresh and prevent them from absorbing other fridge odors.
• Freezing: If you want to make a larger batch, you can freeze the oats for up to 2 months. Just leave out the fresh apple and add it after thawing to prevent it from getting mushy.

Serving Suggestions:

• Fresh Toppings: Add fresh fruit like berries, banana slices, or extra apple chunks just before serving to enhance the flavor and texture.
• Sweet Drizzles: Drizzle a bit of honey, maple syrup, or even almond butter on top for added sweetness.
• Extra Crunch: Sprinkle some granola or extra chopped nuts on top for an additional crunch.

Variations and Add-Ins

Fruit Variations:

• Dried Fruit: Add dried fruits like raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped dates. They’ll plump up as they soak and add natural sweetness.
• Citrus: For a fresh twist, add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to brighten the flavors.

Nut and Butter Add-Ins:

• Nut Butter: Stir in a tablespoon of almond butter, peanut butter, or cashew butter for a rich, creamy texture.
• Seeds: For added nutrition, sprinkle in flaxseeds, hemp seeds, or more chia seeds.

Spice Adjustments:

• Ginger: Add a pinch of ground ginger for a spicier kick that pairs well with the apples.
• Nutmeg: A dash of nutmeg can add warmth and depth to the flavor profile.

Making It Vegan or Gluten-Free:

• Vegan: Substitute the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. Use plant-based milk and skip the Greek yogurt or replace it with a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure you’re using certified gluten-free oats to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Recipe Card for Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats