Brown Sugar Espresso Overnight Oats are a tasty way to kickstart your day! These creamy oats are filled with rich coffee flavor, sweet brown sugar, and a hint of vanilla that will wake up your senses.
I love making them the night before; just mix everything in a jar, pop it in the fridge, and breakfast is ready! It’s like having dessert for breakfast—who can resist that? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Use rolled oats for the best texture. They soak up the liquid nicely. If you’re gluten-free, opt for certified gluten-free oats.
Milk: Any milk works here! I like almond milk for a nutty taste, but use oat milk, soy milk, or regular dairy milk depending on your preference.
Espresso: If espresso isn’t available, strong brewed coffee does the trick. Instant coffee mixed with hot water is another quick alternative.
Brown Sugar: I love using brown sugar for its rich flavor. You can use maple syrup or honey for a different sweetness profile if desired.
Cinnamon & Vanilla: These add warmth and depth to your oats. Feel free to experiment with other spices like nutmeg or even a dash of cocoa powder!
How Do You Make Overnight Oats Creamy and Delicious?
Getting the right texture for overnight oats is the key! Here are steps to ensure yours turn out perfectly creamy:
- When combining your oats and liquid, stir well to avoid clumps. Make sure your brown sugar dissolves completely.
- Cover your bowl or jar tightly to keep moisture in and prevent drying out.
- For extra creaminess, let them sit for at least 6 hours or overnight. The longer they soak, the softer they become.
- If you find them too thick in the morning, simply add a little more milk until they’re to your liking—easy fix!
With these tips, your Brown Sugar Espresso Overnight Oats will be smooth, flavorful, and ready to enjoy!
Brown Sugar Espresso Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled
- 2 tbsp brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional toppings: walnuts, extra oats, cinnamon sticks, coffee beans, drizzle of brown sugar syrup or caramel
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful breakfast takes about 10 minutes to prepare and requires at least 6 hours of refrigeration. It’s perfect for making ahead the night before so you can grab it on your busy mornings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a medium-sized bowl or jar, add the rolled oats, milk, cooled espresso or strong coffee, packed brown sugar, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. This mix is where all the magic begins!
2. Stir Well:
Make sure to stir everything together well until the brown sugar has dissolved and all the ingredients are mixed nicely. You want the oats to be evenly coated in the delicious mixture.
3. Chill Overnight:
Once everything is well mixed, cover the bowl or jar with a lid or plastic wrap. Place it in the fridge overnight or for at least 6 hours. This resting time lets the oats soak up all the flavors and become creamy.
4. Stir and Adjust Consistency:
The next morning, take your oats out of the fridge. Give them a good stir! If the mixture is too thick for your taste, simply add a splash of milk and mix until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Serve and Garnish:
If you’re not already using a serving jar, transfer the oats into one. Now it’s time to get creative! Sprinkle some extra oats on top, add a drizzle of brown sugar syrup or caramel, and toss on some chopped walnuts. For a fancy touch, you can add a cinnamon stick or a couple of coffee beans as decoration.
6. Enjoy Your Breakfast!
Grab a spoon, dig in, and savor the delicious flavors of your Brown Sugar Espresso Overnight Oats. They taste just as amazing as they look!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
It’s best to stick with rolled oats for this recipe, as instant oats can become mushy when soaked overnight. If you only have instant oats on hand, reduce the soaking time to about 2-3 hours instead.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
No problem! Simply replace the dairy milk with your favorite plant-based milk, such as almond, oat, or coconut milk. Any of these will work just fine to create a creamy texture.
Can I Store Leftovers, and How Long Will They Last?
Yes, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give them a good stir before eating, and add a splash of milk if they’ve thickened too much during storage.
What Are Some Good Toppings for These Overnight Oats?
Get creative! Some tasty options include fresh fruits (like bananas or berries), nuts (like walnuts or almonds), seeds (like chia or flaxseeds), or a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for added sweetness. Customize it to fit your taste!