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Delicious Brown Sugar Overnight Oats for Busy Mornings Recipe

4.5 from 65 reviews

A quick and easy make-ahead breakfast of creamy brown sugar overnight oats, perfect for busy mornings. This nutritious recipe combines rolled oats soaked in milk and Greek yogurt with warming cinnamon, vanilla, and a touch of brown sugar, topped with fresh bananas, chopped pecans, and a drizzle of maple syrup. Ready in just 4 hours, it’s a wholesome and flavorful start to your day.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Mixture

  • 1 cup Milk of Choice (Dairy or plant-based)
  • 1/2 cup Plain Greek Yogurt (Non-dairy yogurt as a vegan substitute)
  • 1 cup Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats (Instant oats can work but with a different texture)
  • 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar (Can substitute with maple syrup)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon (Pumpkin pie spice can be used as an alternative)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Almond extract can be an alternative)
  • 1 pinch Salt (Essential for balancing sweetness)

Toppings

  • Sliced Bananas (Fresh or seasonal fruits can be used), to taste
  • Chopped Pecans (Walnuts can substitute), to taste
  • Maple Syrup, to taste (Extra brown sugar can also be used)

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl or large mason jar, mix together the rolled oats, chosen milk, Greek yogurt, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until all ingredients are evenly blended, ensuring uniform flavor and texture throughout the oats.
  2. Refrigerate: Cover the mixture tightly with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Allow it to soak for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, so the oats absorb the liquids and soften to a creamy consistency.
  3. Stir and Add Toppings: In the morning, give the oats a good stir to redistribute any settled flavors. Then, top with sliced bananas, chopped pecans, and drizzle with maple syrup as desired for added sweetness and texture.
  4. Serve: Enjoy the overnight oats cold directly from the fridge, or warm them in the microwave for 30-45 seconds if you prefer a cozy, warm breakfast.

Notes

  • You can substitute brown sugar with maple syrup or honey for different sweetness options.
  • Use any milk or yogurt of your choice to accommodate dietary preferences, including dairy-free alternatives.
  • Instant oats can be used but will result in a softer texture compared to rolled oats.
  • Adjust the toppings based on seasonal fruits or nuts available.
  • For a vegan version, ensure to use plant-based yogurt and milk.
  • Overnight oats can be made up to 2 days in advance for meal prep convenience.

Keywords: overnight oats, brown sugar oats, easy breakfast, make-ahead oats, healthy breakfast, quick oats recipe, no-cook oats