Carrot Cake Overnight Oats

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Easy carrot cake overnight oats are healthy + loaded with protein. Rolled oats infused with a subtle maple cinnamon flavor and studded with raisins, roasted pecans and fresh carrots.

Carrot Cake Overnight Oats topped with yogurt, pecans and grated carrot.

I couldn't believe how simple this recipe was. I used steel cut oats because I had them on hand, and added a little protein powder. Before eating, I topped the overnight oats with chia seeds and almond butter ... YUM! The best part was not having to worry about breakfast in the morning - I just grabbed a jar and headed out.
- Savannah K.

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A simple, healthy breakfast option ... yes, please.
Ingredients
Instructions
Substitutions
Variations
Storage
Equipment
FAQ's - Carrot Cake Overnight Oats
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Comments

A simple, healthy breakfast option ... yes, please.

Bailey standing in a white kitchen pouring a smoothie out of a blender and into a glass.

Overnight oats are one of those fads that came and went a long time ago. You know, the low-rise jeans of the food world. What I can't get my mind around is why people have stopped singing their praises. They are kind of the best. Throw some old-fashioned oats into a jar + a few healthy ingredients and let them hang out overnight. The next day, give them a stir and you've got yourself the easiest breakfast ever. This is unquestionably healthy eating at its finest.

In my opinion, the best carrot cake overnight oats combine high protein ingredients with healthy fats and lots of delicious toppings. When writing this recipe I wanted to create the PERFECT COMBO - overnight oats with all the flavors of carrot cake, but using from ingredients that fell into the category of "healthy." You know, delicious enough to satisfy a sweet tooth, but with a nutritional profile appropriate for fueling busy mornings. If I do say so myself, I nailed it.

Maple syrup, sweet carrots, vanilla extract and a touch of cinnamon provide the carrot cake flavor, while hearty oats, Greek yogurt and chopped nuts and your favorite type of milk combine to create an impressive nutritional profile.

Make these overnight oats as a large batch or whip up an individual servings in a mason jar - both are a great way to meal prep for the week!

-Bailey

Ingredients

old fashioned oats: purchase old fashioned, also called "rolled oats" - they become tender and creamy when soaked. Steel cut are too sturdy and will remain firm even after soaking while quick oats are too small and will become mushy.
carrots: skip on store-bought shredded and grate your own - this will result in a sweeter carrot with more flavor
cinnamon - adds a sweet woody flavor with a slight citrusy note to your overnight oats
milk - use what you have on hand, almond milk, oat milk, coconut milk, cashew milk, regular cow's milk .. it all works.
maple syrup - select pure maple syrup, not table syrup, it is not the same thing
vanilla extract - pure vanilla extract should be used, not imitation vanilla

Instructions

Step 1: Grate carrots. Box grater on cutting board beside partially grated carrot.

Step 1: Use a food processor or box grater to grate 1-2 large carrots. You will need 1 cup in total.

Step 2: Carrot Cake Overnight Oats. Combine all ingredients in large mixing bowl.

Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine rolled oats, carrots, cinnamon, milk, maple syrup and vanilla. Stir.

Step 3: Carrot Cake Overnight Oats. Divide oat mixture into mason jars.

Step 3: Transfer ¼ of the oat mixture into each of (4) 8 ounce mason jars and seal with a lid.

Step 4: Carrot Cake Overnight Oats - remove jars from refrigerator and add toppings.

Step 4: Place overnight oat jars into the refrigerator for a minimum of 6 hours (all night is best). To serve, stir and add desired toppings.

Top Tip: Avoid using store-bought shredded carrots, they don't have the same texture and flavor as grated fresh carrots.

Substitutions

gluten-free: gf rolled oats can be substituted for traditional rolled oats - this may cause a change in texture
maple syrup: honey can be subbed
Greek yogurt - vanilla Greek yogurt can be subbed for for plain, eliminate vanilla extract from recipe
dairy-free - use dairy free yogurt and a nut or oat milk

Variations

nut-free: eliminate chopped pecans from recipe
deluxe: add in a dollop of nut butter, a sprinkle of chia seeds, fresh fruit and/or some plump raisins

Storage

Overnight oats do not freeze well but can be stored in a mason jar or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you meal prep on Sunday, you will have enough overnight oat jars to get through the whole work/school week!

To serve, just give them a quick stir and then pile on your favorite toppings.

Equipment

Mason Jars - Use these Ball Mason 8 ounce Quilted Jelly Jars with Lids and Bands (set of 12) if I am making individual servings.

Snapware - When I'm making the recipe to serve to the whole family the next morning, I use these 4-cup total solution square food storage containers. 1 container holds the full recipe.

FAQ's - Carrot Cake Overnight Oats

What type of oats should I use for overnight oats?

Rolled oats, or Old Fashioned Oats are best for making overnight oats. Quick oats become too mushy and steel cut oats retain a chewy texture even after soaking for 12+ hours.

Are Overnight Oats Healthy?

Yes, they offer a range of healthy benefits due to their high fiber and protein content. Avoid sugar-y toppings like chocolate syrup and whipped cream.

Are overnight oats better with milk or yogurt?

Greek yogurt makes the overnight oats more filling and gives a rich creamy texture.

Can I microwave overnight oats?

You can. They are typically enjoyed cold, but if warm is your preference, go for it! Just pop them into the microwave.

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