Introduction
Breakfast is often called the most important meal of the day, and for a good reason. It kickstarts our metabolism and provides us with the necessary energy to face the day. However, mornings can be quite hectic, and it’s not always easy to prepare a wholesome, nutritious breakfast. This is where the ingenious concept of overnight oats comes into play.
Overnight oats are a no-cook method of making oatmeal. Instead of cooking your oats with liquid, you mix rolled oats with the liquid and other mix-ins, and let it rest in the fridge overnight. In the morning, you have a ready-to-eat, creamy, delicious bowl of oatmeal.
The recipe we are about to dive into is an innovative twist to the traditional overnight oats – Sugar Cookie Overnight Oats. This is a delicious and nutritious breakfast option that tastes just like your favorite holiday sugar cookies. It’s like having dessert for breakfast, but a lot healthier. So, let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (any type you prefer)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1-2 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
- A pinch of salt
- Optional toppings: sliced almonds, shredded coconut, white chocolate chips
Directions and Preparation Method
- In a mason jar or any other container with a tight-fitting lid, add the rolled oats.
- Next, add the milk, Greek yogurt, and chia seeds to the jar.
- Then, sweeten your mixture with honey or maple syrup. Feel free to adjust the sweetness to your liking.
- Add the vanilla extract and almond extract (if using) to the jar. The almond extract gives it an extra sugar cookie flavor, but the recipe will still be delicious without it.
- Add a pinch of salt, then stir everything together until well combined.
- Close the jar with the lid and refrigerate overnight, or at least for 6 hours.
- In the morning, give your oats a good stir. At this point, the oats should be creamy and soft, having absorbed most of the liquid. If your oats are too thick, you can add a little more milk to loosen them up.
- Top your sugar cookie overnight oats with your choice of toppings. We suggest sliced almonds, shredded coconut, or white chocolate chips to enhance the sugar cookie flavor, but feel free to get creative!
- Grab a spoon and enjoy your delicious, dessert-like breakfast!
FAQs
1. Can I use instant oats or steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?
For overnight oats, rolled oats are the best choice as they soak up the liquid well and have a great texture. Instant oats can turn out too mushy, and steel-cut oats could be too hard as they require cooking.
2. Can I use a dairy-free milk alternative?
Of course! Any milk – dairy or non-dairy – can be used. Almond milk, coconut milk, soy milk, or oat milk are all great options.
3. Can I prepare these oats more than a night in advance?
Yes, overnight oats can be kept in the fridge for up to 5 days. They are a great meal-prep option. However, if you’re planning to enjoy them past the first day, it’s best to add the toppings right before eating.
Conclusion
Preparing a nutritious and delicious breakfast has never been easier. This Sugar Cookie Overnight Oats recipe is perfect for those who prefer a hassle-free morning routine, without compromising on a healthy start to their day. It’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to add your favorite flavors and toppings. Excitingly, it tastes like a dessert while being packed with nutrients. So go ahead and try this delightful recipe. Don’t forget to share it with your friends and family – they’ll thank you for it! Enjoy!