
Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats capture the magic of freshly baked cinnamon rolls in a creamy and wholesome overnight oats breakfast. You get that sweet cinnamon swirl without turning on the oven and it is perfect for busy mornings. I love how custom-friendly this recipe is and every bite tastes like a cozy treat but nourishes you for hours.
The first time I made these oats I was amazed how that familiar spiced fragrance filled my fridge by morning. Now this has become my Sunday night tradition when I want something special to wake up to on Monday.
Ingredients
- Rolled oats: These soak up flavor and achieve a creamy texture best if you choose old-fashioned oats
- Almond milk: Gives a hint of nuttiness and makes the oats creamy pick an unsweetened version for best results
- Greek yogurt: Adds protein richness and tang go for plain or vanilla to control sweetness
- Chia seeds: Help thicken the oats and add fiber They are optional but recommended
- Ground cinnamon: Essential for that cinnamon roll flavor Use fresh for boldness
- Maple syrup: Brings classic sweetness and natural complexity
- Vanilla extract: Adds a bakery style aroma and flavor for authentic taste
- Brown sugar: Delivers deep sweetness to the cinnamon swirl opt for moist and clump free sugar
- Cinnamon: For the swirl for extra spice and warmth
- Coconut oil: Melts into the swirl for yummy richness You can use melted butter for classic bakery notes
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the Base:
- Combine rolled oats almond milk Greek yogurt chia seeds ground cinnamon maple syrup and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl. Stir slowly and thoroughly so the chia seeds and yogurt distribute evenly. The mixture should look creamy but not soupy. Add a splash more milk if too thick.
- Make the Cinnamon Swirl:
- In a small bowl blend brown sugar cinnamon and coconut oil. Mix until it forms a thick damp sand texture with no dry patches.
- Swirl into the Oats:
- Drop spoonfuls of the cinnamon swirl mixture on top of oats base. Use the back of a spoon to swirl gently through without overmixing so you see ribbons of cinnamon throughout.
- Pack and Chill:
- Transfer the mixture into mason jars or airtight containers filling each halfway then topping up with remaining mix to blend the swirl. Cover tightly and refrigerate at least eight hours or overnight so oats become fluffy and flavors meld.
- Serve and Top:
- In the morning give the oats a good stir right in the jar or container. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon more yogurt or fruit if you like. You can eat straight from the fridge for grab and go or warm gently if you prefer.

The brown sugar cinnamon swirl steals the show in these oats It reminds me of doing cinnamon toast as a kid in my grandma's kitchen when everyone crowded in for warm comfort food This breakfast brings those happy memories into my busy grownup life
Storage Tips
Cinnamon roll overnight oats keep well in the refrigerator for up to five days. Always use airtight containers to prevent other odors from seeping in. The texture actually gets even creamier after day one. If the oats thicken up too much stir in a little milk before serving to loosen them up.
Ingredient Substitutions
Dairy free eaters can swap Greek yogurt with coconut or almond yogurt. Any unsweetened and unflavored plant milk works here and if you are out of brown sugar use coconut sugar or a spoonful of date syrup. Quick oats are okay in a pinch but will yield a softer texture.

Serving Suggestions
Add toasted pecans chopped apples or raisins for crunch and natural sweetness. A scoop of vanilla protein powder mixes well for an extra protein boost. For a playful twist serve in small jars with extra cinnamon swirl drizzled on top so breakfast feels just like dessert.
Cultural Context
Overnight oats are a modern meal prep twist on traditional oat porridge which has fueled people for centuries. This recipe blends classic American cinnamon roll flavor with Nordic style overnight soaking. It is like your favorite bakery treat got a wholesome breakfast upgrade with global roots.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different milk instead of almond milk?
Yes, you can substitute any milk of choice such as dairy, oat, or soy milk depending on your preference and dietary needs.
- → Is Greek yogurt necessary?
Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein, but you may use coconut yogurt or skip it for a dairy-free version with a lighter consistency.
- → How long do these oats need to chill?
For the best texture, refrigerate your oats for at least 8 hours or overnight, allowing flavors to meld and oats to soften.
- → Can I make it sweeter or less sweet?
Absolutely! Adjust the amount of maple syrup and brown sugar to taste, or swap for honey or another sweetener you prefer.
- → Which toppings go well with these oats?
Try chopped nuts, extra cinnamon, a drizzle of nut butter, or diced fruit like apples for added texture and flavor.