Brown Sugar Espresso Overnight Oats are a tasty way to start your day! These oats are mixed with rich espresso and sweet brown sugar, making breakfast both easy and delicious.
Preparing them is a breeze—just mix your ingredients the night before and let the fridge do the work! I love enjoying them topped with fresh fruit for a fun crunch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are key for a creamy texture. If you prefer a heartier bite, quick oats will work, but avoid instant oats as they can get mushy. Steel-cut oats can be used, but you’ll need to soak them longer.
Milk: You can use any milk—whole, almond, oat, or soy. I personally love oat milk for its creamy texture with a hint of sweetness. If you’re dairy-free, choose a plant-based milk for great results.
Espresso: Strong brewed coffee can be used instead of espresso. If you want a caffeine boost with less intensity, consider using cold brew coffee instead. Decaf options work well too!
Brown Sugar: For a deeper flavor, try using coconut sugar or maple syrup as substitutes. Sweeteners like honey or agave syrup can also work wonderfully!
Chia Seeds: These are optional but really help thicken the mixture. If you’re out of them, flax seeds can be used in a similar way.
How Do I Make Sure My Overnight Oats are Perfectly Creamy?
Getting the right consistency for your overnight oats is all about the soaking process! Here’s how to make sure they turn out perfectly creamy:
- Mix all your ingredients in a jar without any dry spots. Stir well to dissolve the brown sugar and distribute chia seeds.
- Once combined, cover hermetically to prevent any fridge odors from seeping in.
- Chill for at least 6 hours or overnight. The longer they sit, the creamier they become!
- If you find them too thick in the morning, don’t panic! Just add a splash of milk and stir until you achieve your desired consistency.
Brown Sugar Espresso Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup brewed espresso, cooled
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp chia seeds (optional, for thickness)
- 1/2 banana, sliced (for topping)
- 1 tbsp caramel or brown sugar syrup (for topping)
- Crumbled toffee or brown sugar crumble (for garnish)
- Ground cinnamon (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and then you’ll let it chill overnight (or at least 6 hours). So, a total commitment of one evening, and you’ll wake up to a delicious breakfast waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine The Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl or jar, mix together the rolled oats, milk, cooled espresso, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and chia seeds if you choose to use them. Stir it all up until well combined—make sure there are no dry spots of oats!
2. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover your bowl or jar with a lid or plastic wrap and pop it into the fridge. Let it chill overnight for at least 6 hours. This soaking time allows the oats to absorb all that yummy espresso flavor!
3. Stir and Adjust Consistency:
The next morning, grab your oats from the fridge and give them a good stir. If they seem too thick for your preference, just add a little splash of milk and mix until you reach the perfect creaminess.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
If your oats are in a bowl, transfer them to a cute serving jar. Top the oats with sliced banana, drizzle some caramel or brown sugar syrup on top, and sprinkle with crumbled toffee or brown sugar crumble. Want an extra touch? Add a light dusting of ground cinnamon for flavor!
5. Dig In:
You’re all set! Serve your Brown Sugar Espresso Overnight Oats chilled and enjoy a delightful breakfast bursting with delicious flavors!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats, but keep in mind that they will absorb liquid more quickly and might result in a mushier texture. If you prefer a creamier consistency, rolled oats are the way to go!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Simply use a plant-based milk like almond, oat, or soy milk, and ensure the brown sugar syrup is also vegan-friendly. You’ll have a delicious vegan breakfast in no time!
How Long Do Leftover Overnight Oats Last?
Any leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re in an airtight container to maintain freshness!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your oats by adding ingredients like nuts, seeds, berries, or even a scoop of protein powder for an extra boost. Just ensure any extras don’t overwhelm the delicious espresso flavor!
