There’s something magical about waking up to breakfast that tastes like dessert but still feels nourishing. These gingerbread overnight oats capture the cozy essence of holiday baking—molasses, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves come together in a creamy jar of oats that practically whisper gingerbread cookies for breakfast.

This recipe is perfect for:

Busy mornings (just grab a jar and go).
Meal-prep lovers (make 3–4 at once and you’re set for the week).
Anyone craving holiday flavors without the sugar crash.

It’s festive, wholesome, and ready to be customized with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

1/2 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
1 tablespoon molasses
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional add-ins:

1 tablespoon chia seeds (extra thickness + fiber)
2 tablespoons Greek yogurt (creamier texture)
A scoop of protein powder (higher protein breakfast)

Instructions

In a jar or bowl, combine oats, milk, molasses, maple syrup, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and vanilla extract.
Stir well until all ingredients are fully mixed.
Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight (at least 6–8 hours).
In the morning, give it a good stir, then enjoy cold or warmed up.
Optional: Top with whipped cream, chopped pecans, or a crushed gingersnap for a festive touch.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Overnight Oats

Adjust sweetness: If you love sweeter oats, add an extra drizzle of maple syrup in the morning.
Make it creamier: Swap half the milk for Greek yogurt or coconut cream.
Texture balance: Add nuts or seeds for crunch so it doesn’t feel too mushy.
Serving tip: Warm the oats in the microwave for 30–40 seconds and top with a dollop of whipped cream — it’s basically holiday dessert for breakfast.

Substitutions & Variations

Vegan version: Use almond or oat milk and skip the yogurt.
High-protein option: Mix in vanilla protein powder or Greek yogurt.
Nut-free: Stick with seeds (sunflower, pumpkin, hemp) instead of nuts.
Kid-friendly: Reduce spices slightly and add mini chocolate chips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I heat overnight oats?

Yes! While they’re typically eaten cold, you can warm them in the microwave for 30–60 seconds if you prefer a cozy, hot breakfast.

How long do they last in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight jar, overnight oats last up to 4 days. The longer they sit, the softer the oats become.

Can I make multiple jars at once?

Absolutely. Prep 3–5 jars at the same time for a week of easy, festive breakfasts.

Nutrition Information (per serving, without toppings)

Calories: ~280
Protein: 6 g
Carbs: 50 g
Fat: 5 g
Fiber: 5 g

If you’ve ever wished you could bottle up the scent of gingerbread cookies and turn it into breakfast, these gingerbread overnight oats are exactly that wish come true. They’re quick to make, endlessly customizable, and they bring holiday cheer straight to your morning routine.

Go ahead, prep a few jars tonight, wake up tomorrow, and let your future self thank you. And if you try it, don’t forget to share your favorite topping combo, crushed cookies, whipped cream, or maybe even cranberries?