These Caramel Macchiato Overnight Oats are a tasty and easy breakfast treat! They mix creamy oats with a delightful caramel flavor, making your morning feel special.
Plus, who says you can’t have dessert for breakfast? 😂 I love grabbing a jar of these before heading out. Just mix, let them sit overnight, and enjoy a sweet start to your day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: These oats are perfect as they soak up the liquid overnight, making them soft and creamy. If you have quick oats, you can use those too, but they may get mushy.
Milk: Choose any milk you like! Almond and oat milk add a nice flavor, but standard dairy milk works great too. If you’re dairy-free, go for coconut milk for a rich taste.
Coffee: Strong brewed coffee or espresso gives that classic caramel macchiato flavor. If you want to avoid caffeine, use decaffeinated coffee or even a coffee substitute like roasted barley.
Caramel Sauce: You can buy caramel sauce or make your own. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try date syrup or a homemade caramel made from coconut sugar.
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and protein. If you can’t have dairy, any plant-based yogurt can work. For a nut-free option, use soy yogurt.
How Do You Make the Oats Creamy and Flavorable?
Getting the right texture and flavor in overnight oats means using some simple steps. Here’s how:
- Start with high-quality rolled oats and soak them in milk and coffee overnight.
- Adding yogurt gives an extra creamy texture. If you skip it, make sure to use enough milk.
- Mix in your sweeteners and flavorings, like caramel and vanilla, before refrigeration to enhance the taste.
Mix everything well and let it sit overnight. This soaking time is what makes your oats soft and infused with all those lovely flavors!
How to Make Caramel Macchiato Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup milk of choice (almond, oat, dairy, etc.)
- 1/2 cup brewed strong coffee or espresso, cooled
- 2 tablespoons caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt or plant-based yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (cashews or walnuts recommended)
- 2 tablespoons dried cranberries or cherries
- 1 tablespoon chocolate shavings or finely crushed chocolate-covered espresso beans (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe only takes about 10-15 minutes of prep time, but don’t forget to let it chill! You’ll want to refrigerate the oats overnight (or at least 6 hours) to ensure they soak up all that delicious flavor. A little patience goes a long way for a perfect breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing Everything Together:
In a mixing bowl or jar, combine the rolled oats, milk, cooled brewed coffee, caramel sauce, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Use a spoon or whisk to stir everything well to make sure the oats are fully coated with the mixture.
2. Add Creaminess (Optional):
If you’re using Greek yogurt, fold it into the oat mixture now. This step makes your oats even creamier and adds a boost of protein. You’ll love how smooth it turns out!
3. Stir in Dried Fruit and Nuts:
Next, stir in the dried cranberries or cherries and half of the chopped nuts. This will give your oats a nice texture and a flavorful bite.
4. Chill in the Fridge:
Cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge overnight. It’s important for the oats to soak, so they soften and absorb all those yummy flavors!
5. Time to Serve:
The next morning, take the oats out of the fridge and give the mixture a good stir. Spoon it into your favorite serving jars or bowls.
6. Drizzle and Garnish:
Now, it’s time for the fun part! Drizzle extra caramel sauce on top for that extra sweetness. Then, sprinkle the remaining chopped nuts and add chocolate shavings or crushed chocolate-covered espresso beans if you like.
7. Enjoy Your Breakfast:
Serve the oats chilled and enjoy your delicious caramel macchiato-inspired overnight oats. A fantastic way to kickstart your day!
This recipe gives you a creamy, coffee-flavored breakfast packed with sweetness and a crunchy twist from the nuts and fruit. Treat yourself to a delightful start to your morning!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
While you can use instant oats, keep in mind that they absorb liquid differently and might become mushy. For the best texture, stick with old-fashioned rolled oats, as they hold up well overnight.
How Do I Make This Vegan?
No problem! Simply use plant-based milk (like almond or oat), leave out the Greek yogurt, or replace it with a vegan yogurt alternative. You can also use agave syrup instead of honey for sweetness!
How Long Do Leftovers Last?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy them cold or gently reheat them in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to refresh the texture.
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your oats with different toppings like fresh fruit, seeds, or nut butters. Experimenting with new flavors can keep your breakfast exciting!