I came up with these Apple Cinnamon Crunch Overnight Oats on a busy weekday when I wanted something that felt cozy but still quick to grab.
The mix of soft oats, sweet apples, and warm cinnamon gives that classic fall flavor, while the crunchy topping adds a little texture that makes every bite fun.
It’s a breakfast that feels like apple pie but keeps you fueled for hours. If you like having a ready-to-go jar in the fridge, this one’s simple to prep the night before and tastes even better the next day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you love apple pie or crisp, this recipe brings all those comforting flavors into a healthy breakfast you can prep ahead. Creamy oats soak overnight with cinnamon, vanilla, and maple syrup, while tender apples add sweetness and texture. The granola or nut topping adds crunch, making it feel like dessert in a jar.
It’s also customizable and practical—perfect for meal prepping multiple jars at once, naturally dairy-free and gluten-free if needed, and kid-friendly.
Whether you enjoy it chilled or warmed up, it’s a filling and balanced breakfast that feels indulgent while fueling you with fiber, protein, and wholesome ingredients.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1½ cups unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1 small apple, peeled and chopped (Honeycrisp or Fuji are great)
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil or butter (for cooking apples)
Crunchy Toppings
- ¼ cup granola
- 2 tablespoons chopped pecans or walnuts
- Extra cinnamon for sprinkling
Pro Tips
- Cook the apples ahead of time with a little cinnamon and maple—it gives them that caramelized apple-pie flavor.
- Add crunch at the last minute so granola and nuts stay crispy instead of soggy.
- Adjust sweetness depending on how sweet your apples are.
- Batch prep several jars at once for easy weekday mornings.
- Warm it up in the microwave if you want a cozy, apple crisp–like breakfast bowl.
Tools You’ll Need
- Small skillet (for cooking apples)
- Medium mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or spatula
- Mason jars or airtight containers
Substitutions and Variations
- Nut-free: Skip pecans and use seeds or nut-free granola.
- Different apples: Any apple works—Gala, Fuji, or Granny Smith for tartness.
- Sweetener swap: Use honey, coconut sugar, or mashed banana instead of maple syrup.
- Flavor twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for extra spice.
- Protein boost: Stir in Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla protein powder.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prep up to 5 jars at once—they’ll stay fresh in the fridge all week.
- Cook a batch of cinnamon apples and store separately for topping.
- Keep granola in a separate container until just before eating to maintain crunch.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Crunch Overnight Oats
1. Cook the Apples
Heat coconut oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add chopped apple, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon maple syrup. Cook for 5–7 minutes until apples soften and caramelize slightly. Let cool.
2. Mix the Oat Base
In a medium bowl, whisk together almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla, remaining cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
3. Add Oats and Chia
Stir in rolled oats and chia seeds. Let sit for 10 minutes, then stir again to prevent clumping.
4. Assemble Jars
Divide oat mixture into two jars. Top each with cooled apples, cover, and refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours).
5. Add Crunch and Serve
In the morning, stir oats and top with granola, pecans, and a drizzle of maple syrup. Enjoy cold or warmed.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic jar style: Eat straight from the fridge with crunchy toppings added fresh.
- Warm apple crisp style: Microwave oats for 45 seconds, then add granola for a warm, cozy bowl.
- Brunch-ready: Serve in parfait glasses with layers of apples, oats, and granola for a pretty presentation.
- Kid-friendly: Add a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips.
Leftovers and Storage
Overnight oats keep in the fridge for up to 5 days in sealed jars. Stir before serving and add toppings right before eating.
Apples can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated if desired. Granola should always be stored separately until serving.
Nutrition & Benefits
These oats are packed with fiber from apples, oats, and chia seeds, which help with digestion and satiety. Pecans and granola add healthy fats and a bit of protein, making the breakfast filling and balanced.
Cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar, and maple syrup provides natural sweetness. It’s a delicious way to fuel your morning with whole, nourishing ingredients.
Recipe FAQ
1. Can I use raw apples instead of cooked? Yes, raw apples work too—they’ll stay crisp, but cooking adds more pie-like flavor.
2. Can I use steel-cut oats? Not for this recipe—they won’t soften enough overnight. Stick with rolled oats.
3. Can I make it dairy-free? Yes, just use almond, soy, or oat milk, and dairy-free yogurt or granola.
4. Can I prep for kids? Absolutely—it’s sweet, fruity, and kid-approved. Just adjust maple syrup to their taste.
5. Can I freeze overnight oats? Not recommended. They lose texture when thawed. Stick with fridge storage.
A Crunchy, Cozy Breakfast in a Jar
These Apple Cinnamon Crunch Overnight Oats combine everything comforting about apple pie with the convenience of meal prep.
Creamy oats, sweet spiced apples, and a crunchy topping come together to make breakfast feel both indulgent and wholesome.
Whether you enjoy them chilled or warmed, these oats are the perfect way to start your morning on a cozy, satisfying note.
