Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats bring together the sweet and comforting flavors of a cinnamon roll in a healthy, make-ahead breakfast. Creamy oats soak overnight with a swirl of cinnamon, a touch of vanilla, and a hint of brown sugar, creating a bowl that’s soft, flavorful, and ready to eat first thing in the morning.
I love making these oats when I want something that feels a little special but still keeps me on track during the busy week. The best part is that they’re super easy to put together the night before, so all you have to do in the morning is grab your jar and enjoy. I like to add a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a drizzle of cream cheese frosting for that full cinnamon roll vibe.
These cinnamon roll oats are perfect for chilly mornings when you want warmth and coziness but don’t have time for a big breakfast. They remind me of lazy weekend brunches with family, but they fit perfectly into a busy weekday routine. If you haven’t tried overnight oats before, this is a comforting way to start!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats work best for soaking overnight; they absorb liquid well and stay creamy. If you only have quick oats, they’ll work but get softer and mushier.
Milk: I usually use almond or oat milk for a mild flavor, but any milk you like is fine. Dairy milk gives a richer taste, while plant-based options keep it lighter.
Greek yogurt: This adds creaminess and protein. You can skip it or replace it with dairy-free yogurt for a vegan version.
Chia seeds: These help thicken the oats and boost fiber. If you don’t have them, you can leave them out, but expect a thinner texture.
Cinnamon & brown sugar: Cinnamon defines the flavor here, so don’t skip it! For sweetness, brown sugar adds richness, but coconut sugar or maple syrup can work well too.
Butter or coconut oil: Mixing melted butter into the cinnamon sugar swirl creates that buttery cinnamon roll feel. Use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Get That Perfect Cinnamon Swirl in Overnight Oats?
The cinnamon swirl is the fun part that makes these oats feel special. Here’s how to nail it:
- Mix melted butter or coconut oil with brown sugar and a pinch of cinnamon until smooth.
- Layer half your oat mixture in a jar, then spoon the swirl mixture over it.
- Add the rest of the oats on top.
- Use a spoon or knife to gently swirl the layers, creating a marbled effect—don’t overmix or you’ll lose the swirl.
- Let it rest overnight in the fridge so the flavors blend and the oats soften perfectly.
In the morning, give it a gentle stir to combine the swirl a bit more if you like, then add any toppings you want. It’s a simple step but makes the oats taste just like a cinnamon roll!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Jar or container with a lid – I prefer a glass jar because it’s easy to see the layers and keeps everything fresh.
- Mixing bowl and spoon – for blending your ingredients smoothly and preparing the cinnamon swirl.
- Small bowl – to mix the cinnamon sugar swirl before layering.
- Measuring spoons and cups – to ensure everything is just right, especially for the sugar and liquids.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Protein boost: Stir in a scoop of vanilla or chocolate protein powder for extra energy in the morning.
- Fruits: Add chopped apples, sliced bananas, or berries on top after mixing for fresh flavor and texture.
- Additional spices: Mix in a pinch of cardamom or pumpkin pie spice for a different twist on classic cinnamon.
- Walnuts or pecans: Sprinkle chopped nuts on top or swirl them into the oats for added crunch and healthy fats.
Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar or coconut sugar (for cinnamon swirl)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter or coconut oil (for cinnamon swirl)
- Additional cinnamon and oats for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prep takes about 10 minutes. Then, the oats need to chill in the fridge overnight or for at least 4 hours so the oats soften and flavors blend.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Oatmeal Ingredients:
In a bowl, stir together oats, milk, Greek yogurt (if using), chia seeds, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
2. Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl:
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, melted butter or coconut oil, and a pinch of cinnamon until smooth and combined.
3. Layer Your Oats and Cinnamon Swirl:
Take a clean jar or container and add half of the oatmeal mixture to the bottom. Next, spoon the cinnamon swirl mixture on top. Then, add the remaining oatmeal mixture over the swirl layer.
4. Create the Cinnamon Swirl Effect:
Use a spoon or knife to gently swirl the layers together—just enough to get a marbled pattern without mixing everything completely.
5. Refrigerate Overnight:
Seal the jar or container and place it in the fridge for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the oats to soak up the liquid and the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
The next morning, stir the oats if you like, then top with a dollop of yogurt or cream (optional), a sprinkle of oats, and more cinnamon. Serve cold and enjoy your delicious cinnamon roll-inspired breakfast!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
You can, but instant oats will make the texture softer and a bit mushier. Rolled oats keep a nice, creamy bite after soaking overnight.
How Long Can I Store Overnight Oats?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. After that, the texture and flavor may start to decline.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Use plant-based milk and yogurt, and swap melted butter for coconut oil to keep it dairy-free and vegan-friendly.
Is It Okay to Skip the Greek Yogurt?
Yes, skipping the yogurt just means your oats will be a bit less creamy but still delicious. You can add more milk or a splash of plant-based cream for extra richness if you like.