A cozy, gently sweet breakfast that tastes like a cinnamon roll in a jar—easy, make-ahead, and kid-approved!
Warm Flavors, Cold Mornings, and a No-Stress Breakfast
There’s something about the combination of brown sugar and cinnamon that instantly brings comfort—like pulling a warm blanket over your shoulders or biting into a fresh-baked cookie. With these Brown Sugar Overnight Oats with Cinnamon, you get that same cozy feeling, but in a quick, nutritious breakfast that’s prepped in five minutes flat.
This recipe is one of those simple staples that never gets old. It has all the creamy, dreamy texture of classic overnight oats, but with a sweet cinnamon swirl that gives it a little magic. My kids love it because it tastes like dessert. I love it because it’s wholesome, affordable, and makes mornings easier. It’s perfect for school days, office commutes, or slow weekends when you still want breakfast ready and waiting.
It’s also endlessly customizable. You can add chopped apples or raisins for an oatmeal-cookie vibe, or stir in Greek yogurt or protein powder for an extra boost. Whether you eat it cold straight from the jar or warm it up like a bowl of stovetop oats, this recipe is a keeper.
What You’ll Need
- ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for texture and fiber)
- ½ cup milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy)
- 2–3 tablespoons plain or vanilla Greek yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Add-ins & Toppings:
- Chopped apples or pears
- Raisins or dried cranberries
- Sliced banana
- Chopped pecans or walnuts
- Extra cinnamon and brown sugar drizzle
- Dollop of yogurt or whipped topping
Pro Tips
- Use dark brown sugar – It has a richer molasses flavor that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
- Chill for at least 4 hours – Overnight is best, but even a few hours gives the oats time to soften and thicken.
- Add fresh toppings right before serving – Bananas, apples, or nuts are best added just before eating for maximum freshness and crunch.
- Make it warm – You can microwave the oats for 30–60 seconds in the morning if you prefer them warm.
- Meal prep friendly – Make 3–4 jars at once and you’ve got breakfast covered for days.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mason jar or lidded container
- Mixing bowl (if not mixing directly in jar)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or spatula
Substitutions and Variations
- No dairy? Use coconut yogurt and almond or oat milk.
- Lower sugar? Replace brown sugar with a dash of maple syrup or monk fruit sweetener.
- More protein? Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder or use high-protein Greek yogurt.
- Gluten-free? Just be sure to use certified gluten-free oats.
- Flavor twist? Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a warm spice variation.
Make-Ahead Tips
These overnight oats can be prepped up to 5 days in advance. Store them in individual mason jars or airtight containers. If you’re adding fruit or nuts, it’s best to keep those separate and stir them in just before eating to keep everything fresh and crisp.
If the oats thicken too much in the fridge, just add a splash of milk before serving to loosen them up.
How to Make Brown Sugar Overnight Oats with Cinnamon
1. Combine All Ingredients
In a jar or bowl, stir together the oats, chia seeds, milk, Greek yogurt (if using), brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until fully mixed.
2. Refrigerate Overnight
Transfer the mixture to a mason jar or container with a lid. Seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Add Toppings and Serve
In the morning, give the oats a good stir. Top with banana slices, chopped nuts, or a little extra brown sugar and cinnamon for garnish. Enjoy cold or microwave for a cozy warm version.
Leftovers and Storage
These oats will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Store in sealed containers. Add a splash of milk before serving if needed to loosen the consistency. Always add fruit or crunchy toppings right before eating for the best texture and flavor.
You can also freeze the base mixture in silicone molds or freezer-safe containers for longer storage—just thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
A Sweet Start That Feels Like a Treat
Brown Sugar Overnight Oats with Cinnamon are the perfect balance of cozy and convenient. They feel like a dessert, but they’re packed with nourishing ingredients that keep you full and satisfied. Whether you’re feeding little ones, prepping ahead for a busy week, or just want to treat yourself to something delicious in the morning—this is a breakfast that checks all the boxes.
If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear about it! Drop a comment below and let me know your favorite toppings or tweaks. Did your kids love it? Did you go for the warm version? Let’s talk oats!
