Maple Pecan Overnight Oats are a delicious and nutritious breakfast option that combines the sweetness of maple syrup with the rich, nutty flavor of toasted pecans. These oats are creamy, filling, and perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a wholesome breakfast with minimal effort. Packed with fiber, healthy fats, and protein, they will keep you energized and satisfied throughout the morning.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Maple Pecan Overnight Oats are a simple, make-ahead breakfast that’s as tasty as it is convenient. The oats soak overnight in a creamy mixture of milk and yogurt, absorbing all the flavors and creating a rich, pudding-like texture by morning. The maple syrup adds a warm sweetness, while the toasted pecans provide a satisfying crunch. It’s a perfectly balanced meal that’s ideal for busy mornings when you don’t have time to cook. Plus, it’s customizable—add fruit, spices, or extra toppings to suit your taste!

Ingredients

• ½ cup rolled oats

• 1 tablespoon chia seeds

• ½ cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)

• ½ cup Greek yogurt

• 1 tablespoon maple syrup

• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• Pinch of salt

• ¼ cup pecans, toasted and chopped

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the oats: In a mason jar or a small bowl, combine the rolled oats, chia seeds, almond milk, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to combine, making sure the oats are fully submerged in the liquid mixture.

2. Toast the pecans: Heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped pecans and toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until they are golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

3. Refrigerate overnight: Cover the mason jar or bowl with a lid or plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the oats to absorb the liquid and soften to a creamy consistency.

4. Top with pecans: In the morning, give the oats a good stir. If they are too thick, add a splash of almond milk to loosen them up. Top with the toasted pecans and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 1 person.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Chill time: 4 hours or overnight

Variations

• Add fruits: Fresh berries, sliced bananas, or apples make a great addition to this dish for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a deeper, spiced flavor.

• Non-dairy option: Swap Greek yogurt for coconut yogurt for a dairy-free version.

• Nut butters: Stir in a tablespoon of almond or peanut butter for extra creaminess and protein.

Storage/Reheating

Store the overnight oats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can be enjoyed cold straight from the fridge, or if you prefer, you can heat them in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring halfway through. If the oats have thickened too much overnight, simply add a little more milk when reheating.

FAQs

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Quick oats will work, but they tend to absorb liquid more quickly and can create a mushier texture. Rolled oats are preferred for the best consistency in overnight oats.

Can I make these oats without chia seeds?

Yes, chia seeds help thicken the oats, but you can omit them if you prefer. You may need to use a little extra yogurt or milk to achieve the desired texture.

How can I make these oats sweeter?

If you like your oats sweeter, add an extra tablespoon of maple syrup, or stir in a drizzle of honey or agave syrup. You can also add some mashed banana for natural sweetness.

How can I make these oats vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, simply use plant-based yogurt (like coconut or almond yogurt) and ensure the maple syrup is pure.

Can I prepare these oats in advance for several days?

Yes, you can prepare a batch of overnight oats for several days. Store them in individual containers in the fridge, and they will last for up to 3 days.

Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, you can use regular yogurt, but Greek yogurt adds more creaminess and protein. If you prefer a lighter option, regular yogurt will work just fine.

How can I make this recipe more protein-rich?

For an extra protein boost, add a scoop of your favorite protein powder or mix in some nuts or seeds, like pumpkin seeds or hemp seeds.

Do I need to toast the pecans?

Toasting the pecans brings out their natural sweetness and enhances their flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step and add them raw.

Can I freeze overnight oats?

Yes, you can freeze the oats for up to a month. Simply store them in an airtight container and let them thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

How can I adjust the consistency of the oats?

If the oats are too thick, simply add a little more milk in the morning to achieve the desired consistency. If they’re too runny, add more oats or chia seeds and let them sit a little longer.

Conclusion

Maple Pecan Overnight Oats are a simple yet indulgent breakfast that’s both healthy and satisfying. The creamy oats, warm maple flavor, and toasted pecans create a balanced and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy mornings or a meal prep option for the week. You can easily customize this recipe to your liking, adding fruits, spices, or other toppings to make it your own. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, these overnight oats will quickly become a breakfast staple!