These Crème Brûlée Overnight Oats are a fun twist on the classic dessert! They mix creamy yogurt, oats, and a hint of vanilla, topped with a sprinkle of sugar that you can caramelize for that crunchy bite!
Who knew breakfast could taste so fancy? I love making these oats the night before. It’s like waking up to a little dessert each morning—what a treat! 😍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: I use rolled oats for their chewy texture. If you prefer quicker oats, you can substitute them, but they will soften more, leading to a different consistency.
Milk: Use any milk you like—dairy, almond, oat, or coconut work wonderfully. If you want a creamier base, full-fat milk or coconut milk are great choices.
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and protein. If you’re vegan, you can use a plant-based yogurt or omit it for a lighter version.
Maple Syrup/Honey: Both add sweetness. For a refined sugar-free option, you might try agave syrup or even mashed banana.
Brown Sugar: It gives a lovely caramel flavor on top. If you want to omit refined sugar, use coconut sugar instead!
How Do I Caramelize the Sugar Without a Torch?
Caramelizing is crucial for that classic crème brûlée taste. Here’s how to do it easily:
- After preparing the oats, smooth the top and sprinkle with brown sugar.
- If using a broiler, preheat it first. Place the oats on a baking sheet for even cooking.
- Broil for just 1-2 minutes until the sugar is bubbly and golden. Stay nearby, as it can burn quickly!
- Let it cool briefly so the sugar hardens into a crispy layer.
With these tips, your Crème Brûlée Overnight Oats will be a hit at breakfast! Enjoy the rich flavors and textures—perfect for a sweet start to your day!
Crème Brûlée Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (for topping and caramelizing)
- Fresh berries (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll also need at least 6 hours or ideally overnight to let the oats soak up the flavors in the fridge. The final touch of caramelizing the sugar will take just a few minutes right before serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a jar or small bowl, combine the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to make sure everything is mixed together nicely. You want those oats fully coated!
2. Letting it Chill:
Seal your jar tightly or cover your bowl with a lid or plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 6 hours, but overnight is best. This way, the oats will soak up all the yummy flavors!
3. Preparing the Topping:
When you’re ready to dig in, take the oats out of the fridge. Give the mixture a quick stir and smooth the top with a spoon. This makes for a nice base for that sweet, crunchy top.
4. Caramelizing the Sugar:
Now, sprinkle the tablespoon of brown sugar evenly over the top. If you have a kitchen torch, gently caramelize the sugar until it melts and gets all bubbly and golden. If you don’t have a torch, you can place the oats under the broiler for about 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
5. Serving:
Let the caramelized sugar harden for about a minute. This will give you that satisfying crunch. Serve your delicious oats immediately, and feel free to add some fresh berries on top for a pop of color and flavor!
Enjoy your decadent, creamy oats with that wonderful crunchy brûlée top! It’s like dessert for breakfast!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but keep in mind they will absorb liquid faster and create a creamier texture. The oats may also be softer than if you use rolled oats, which retain some chewiness.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Without Greek Yogurt?
Absolutely! You can replace the Greek yogurt with an equal amount of extra milk, or use a dairy-free yogurt alternative for a vegan option. It will still be delicious, just a bit less creamy.
How Do I Store Leftover Overnight Oats?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat gently before serving; avoid reheating the caramelized sugar layer, as it will lose its crunch.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! Simply use a plant-based milk and yogurt, and swap honey for maple syrup. The recipe will still yield a tasty and creamy bowl of overnight oats!
