If you’re craving a comforting, cozy breakfast that feels like dessert but nourishes like a wholesome meal, these Apple Pie Overnight Oats are exactly what you need.
They combine soft, cinnamon-spiced apples with creamy oats and a touch of maple syrup to deliver that classic apple pie flavor in a satisfying, make-ahead breakfast jar.
It’s hearty, naturally sweet, and perfectly spiced—ideal for cool mornings, back-to-school routines, or holiday prep breakfasts.
What makes this recipe even better is how quick it is to throw together. With just a few pantry staples and about 10 minutes of prep, you can wake up to a delicious breakfast that’s ready to go.
These oats are great for meal prep, family-friendly, and packed with fiber, protein, and whole grain goodness
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Apple Pie Overnight Oats deliver all the warm, spiced flavors you love in a slice of apple pie—with none of the sugar crash.
The combination of soft cooked apples, maple syrup, oats, and cinnamon makes for a naturally sweet and satisfying breakfast that keeps you full for hours. It’s cozy, hearty, and easy to customize.
Plus, it’s meal-prep magic. You can prepare several jars at once and enjoy a healthy, flavorful breakfast all week long.
It’s naturally gluten-free (if using certified GF oats), dairy-free, and kid-approved—perfect for school mornings, cozy weekends, or even as a healthy snack or dessert alternative.
What You’ll Need
For the Oats:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or to taste)
- Pinch of salt
For the Apple Pie Topping:
- 1 small apple (peeled and chopped)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil or butter
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped pecans or walnuts
- More sautéed apple
- Yogurt or whipped topping
- Extra cinnamon or drizzle of maple syrup
Pro Tips
- Use crisp, sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji for great texture and flavor.
- Cook the apples ahead of time so they cool before layering into the oats.
- Chill overnight for best texture, but even 4 hours will work in a pinch.
- Double the recipe and store in jars for an easy week of breakfasts.
- Top just before serving to keep nuts crunchy and apples fresh.
Tools You’ll Need
- Small saucepan (for apple topping)
- Medium mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 2 glass jars or containers with lids
Substitutions and Variations
- Dairy-free: Use almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk.
- Gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free rolled oats.
- No maple syrup? Try honey, date syrup, or mashed banana.
- Apple swap: Use pear or cooked peaches for a twist.
- Add protein: Stir in a scoop of vanilla protein powder or a spoonful of Greek yogurt.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prep apple topping ahead and refrigerate for 3–4 days in an airtight container.
- Mix base oats up to 5 days in advance. Just stir and store in jars.
- Wait to add toppings like nuts or yogurt until serving to keep textures fresh.
How to Make Apple Pie Overnight Oats
1. Cook the Apples
In a small saucepan, heat coconut oil or butter over medium heat. Add chopped apple, cinnamon, and maple syrup. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are soft and slightly caramelized. Let cool completely.
2. Mix the Oat Base
In a medium bowl, mix oats, chia seeds, almond milk, cinnamon, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt. Stir well to combine. Let sit for 5 minutes, then stir again.
3. Assemble the Jars
Divide the oat mixture between two jars. Top each with a layer of sautéed apple. Add chopped nuts or any other desired toppings.
4. Refrigerate Overnight
Seal jars and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let the oats soften and flavors meld.
5. Serve and Enjoy
In the morning, give everything a stir or enjoy as-is. Add extra milk if you prefer a looser texture, and top with more fruit, yogurt, or syrup.
Leftovers and Storage
Store overnight oats in sealed jars in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Apples can be stored separately or layered in. For best texture, add crunchy toppings right before serving.
Nutrition & Benefits
This recipe offers a perfect balance of complex carbs, healthy fats, and fiber—thanks to the oats, chia seeds, and apples.
The cinnamon helps support blood sugar regulation, while the oats offer heart-healthy beta-glucan fiber.
Chia seeds provide omega-3s and plant-based protein, making this a filling and nourishing choice to start your day.
Recipe FAQ
1. Can I use steel-cut oats?
No, they don’t soften enough overnight unless pre-cooked. Stick to rolled oats.
2. Can I eat this warm?
Yes! Warm in the microwave for 30–60 seconds and stir before eating.
3. Is this sweet enough without syrup?
Yes—especially if using sweet apples. You can skip or reduce syrup as desired.
4. Can I freeze overnight oats?
It’s not recommended. The texture becomes mushy when thawed.
5. Can I blend the oats?
Yes—blend for a smoother, “pudding-like” consistency before refrigerating.
All the Flavors of Apple Pie—No Baking Required
These Apple Pie Overnight Oats are the perfect mix of indulgent and practical. They deliver warm spices, tender fruit, and hearty oats—all in one jar that you can grab and go.
Whether you’re meal prepping or just want something wholesome and delicious in the morning, this recipe is a seasonal favorite you’ll come back to again and again.
