If you love the sweet-tart combination of cranberry and orange—the kind you find in holiday breads or zesty muffins—you’re going to fall for these Cranberry Orange Overnight Oats.
This recipe transforms that classic duo into a creamy, wholesome, make-ahead breakfast that’s as comforting as it is nutritious.
Perfect for busy mornings or festive meal prep, these oats offer all the seasonal brightness of citrus and cranberries, with a thick, satisfying texture from chia seeds and rolled oats.
Every spoonful bursts with tangy flavor, natural sweetness, and cozy vibes.
Why You’ll Love This Seasonal Favorite
Cranberries and oranges are a perfect match—bold, tart, and citrusy. Combined with oats, chia seeds, and your favorite milk, they create a creamy, nourishing breakfast that feels indulgent but is full of goodness.
These overnight oats are dairy-free, gluten-free (if using certified oats), and naturally sweetened.
Quick to prep in 5 minutes and perfect for holiday mornings or cozy weekdays, just top with nuts, coconut, or fruit and enjoy.
What You’ll Need
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or plant-based yogurt)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 2 tablespoons dried cranberries (or 1/4 cup fresh or thawed frozen cranberries)
- 2 tablespoons orange juice (fresh is best)
- 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
Optional Toppings:
- Orange zest
- Extra cranberries
- Crushed walnuts or pecans
- Toasted coconut
- A dollop of yogurt or nut butter
Pro Tips
- Use fresh orange juice – Bottled juice can be too sweet or bland. Freshly squeezed juice brings bright, natural citrus flavor.
- Soak dried cranberries – Let them sit in the oat mixture overnight to plump up and become juicy.
- Love tartness? Use fresh or frozen cranberries instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor punch.
- Zest before you juice – Always zest your orange before squeezing it—it’s easier and more efficient.
- Customize toppings – Toasted nuts, coconut, or citrus slices make it even more satisfying.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mason jar or airtight container
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Microplane or citrus zester
- Spoon or whisk
- Mixing bowl (optional)
- Refrigerator
Substitutions and Variations
- No yogurt? Add 1–2 extra tablespoons of almond milk or use a dairy-free yogurt.
- No cranberries? Try chopped dried cherries or even pomegranate arils for a similar pop.
- Want more protein? Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder or 1/4 cup more Greek yogurt.
- Lower sugar? Skip the maple syrup or sweeten with a mashed banana instead.
- Make it nutty? Stir in 1 tablespoon almond or cashew butter for added richness.
Make-Ahead Tips
These oats are perfect for meal prep and stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days. Make a few jars ahead of time for busy weekdays or prep a batch for your holiday guests.
To keep textures perfect, add any crunchy toppings like nuts or granola right before serving. The oats and chia will continue to thicken over time—just add a splash of milk and stir before eating if needed.
How to Make Cranberry Orange Overnight Oats
1. Zest and Juice the Orange
Start by zesting your orange with a microplane, then cut it and squeeze out about 2 tablespoons of juice.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl or mason jar, whisk together almond milk, Greek yogurt, orange juice, vanilla extract, and maple syrup.
3. Add Dry Ingredients
Stir in oats, chia seeds, cranberries, orange zest, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to combine.
4. Chill Overnight
Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until thick and creamy.
5. Add Toppings and Serve
In the morning, give the oats a good stir. Top with extra cranberries, orange zest, crushed nuts, or coconut flakes.
Leftovers and Storage
These oats will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. Store in individual jars for easy grab-and-go breakfasts or snacks. If the mixture thickens too much, just stir in a splash of milk.
Keep toppings like nuts and coconut in a separate container until serving to preserve texture and crunch.
A Zesty Start to Your Day
These Cranberry Orange Overnight Oats bring the brightness of citrus and the richness of hearty oats together in one easy, make-ahead meal.
Whether it’s a cozy winter morning or you just want something vibrant to start your day, this flavor combo delivers both comfort and nourishment.
Give it a try this week and leave a comment—did you use fresh cranberries, go heavy on the zest, or top it with toasted pecans? I’d love to hear how you made this festive breakfast your own!
