Cranberry Orange Overnight Oats Recipe
Cranberry Orange Overnight Oats. Just saying it makes my mouth water. I still remember the first time I took the plunge into overnight oats—had my doubts, honestly. I mean, how could something so simple really fill you up? But then I mixed in some tart cranberries and a sprinkle of orange zest, and bam! It’s like a little burst of sunshine showing up in my breakfast routine. I can vividly recall that morning; the kitchen smelled amazing. The tangy cranberries dancing with that bright citrus scent—pure magic. It’s such an effortless way to kick off my day, especially on those hectic mornings when time’s not on my side. Honestly, who has time to cook when you’re running late? And here's the thing: this recipe isn’t just a one-size-fits-all. You can tweak it to match your mood—swap in nuts or some honey if you’re feeling fancy. So, grab your jars, toss in those oats, and let’s whip up these cranberry orange overnight oats that’ll make your mornings not just edible but enjoyable. Trust me; you’ll love them!
❤️ Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare, taking only 10 minutes.
- Packed with fiber to keep you full longer.
- Perfect for meal prep, enjoy it all week.
- A delightful combination of tart and sweet flavors.
- Versatile; easily customizable with your favorite ingredients.
- Nutritious, offering a great start to your day.
🥘 Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats — Old-fashioned works best for texture.
- 1 cup milk — Use almond, coconut, or any milk of your choice.
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt — Adds creaminess and protein.
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries — Cranberries add a nice chew.
- 1 orange zest and juice — Fresh zest enhances the flavor.
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup — You can adjust sweetness to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract — For added warmth and flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon — Optional, but it pairs well with orange.
- 1/4 cup chia seeds — For extra fiber and a nutrient boost.
📝 Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, and chia seeds. Stir well until everything is fully incorporated.
Use a whisk for a smoother mixture. - 2
Add in the dried cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, maple syrup, and cinnamon. Mix until combined.
Taste and adjust sweetness if needed. - 3
Divide the mixture evenly into four jars or airtight containers.
Use jars with wide mouths for easy access. - 4
Seal the jars tightly and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours to allow the oats to soak.
Make them on a Sunday for quick breakfasts all week. - 5
In the morning, give the oats a good stir. If they are too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen them up.
Add a sprinkle of extra cinnamon for flavor. - 6
Top with extra cranberries, orange slices, or nuts if desired.
Feel free to get creative with toppings. - 7
Enjoy your cranberry orange overnight oats straight from the jar or transfer to a bowl.
Great for breakfast on the go!
💡 Tips & Tricks
- For a creamier texture, use full-fat Greek yogurt.
- Add fresh fruit or nuts just before eating for optimal freshness.
- If you prefer, substitute honey or agave syrup for maple syrup.
- To make it vegan, use plant-based yogurt and milk.
- Experiment with different dried fruits like raisins or apricots.
🔄 Variations
- Berry Medley: Substitute cranberries with a mix of your favorite berries.
- Nutty Delight: Add in a handful of chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for crunch.
- Coconut Bliss: Use coconut milk instead of regular milk and add shredded coconut.
- Spiced Apple: Replace orange with grated apple and add apple pie spice.
📦 Storage Instructions
📊 Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | 1 jar |
| Calories | 220 |
| Total Fat | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 5mg |
| Sodium | 90mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 36g |
| Dietary Fiber | 7g |
| Total Sugars | 8g |
| Protein | 8g |