If you’re craving a sweet, fruity breakfast that’s as nutritious as it is delicious, these Cherry Chia Overnight Oats are perfect.
They combine creamy oats, chia seeds, and juicy cherries for a make-ahead breakfast that tastes like dessert but fuels your morning with fiber, protein, and healthy fats.
The natural sweetness of cherries paired with vanilla and cinnamon makes every bite feel indulgent. Best of all, you can prep it in minutes the night before, so it’s ready to grab-and-go in the morning—perfect for busy weekdays or meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These overnight oats are creamy, naturally sweet, and full of rich cherry flavor. Chia seeds create a pudding-like texture while adding fiber and omega-3s.
Rolled oats provide slow-digesting carbs to keep you energized for hours, making this a satisfying and balanced breakfast.
It’s also completely customizable. Use fresh or frozen cherries, add a scoop of protein powder for extra protein, or change up the toppings with granola, nuts, or shredded coconut.
Whether you enjoy it chilled or slightly warmed, this recipe is simple, nourishing, and full of flavor.
What You’ll Need
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ¾ cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of choice)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- ½ cup pitted cherries (fresh or frozen, halved)
- 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Optional Toppings
- Extra cherries
- Granola
- Chopped almonds or walnuts
- Coconut flakes
Pro Tips
- Use frozen cherries for convenience—they soften overnight and add extra juiciness.
- Mix well twice—once when assembling and again after 10 minutes to avoid clumps.
- Add toppings in the morning so they stay fresh and crunchy.
- Adjust sweetness depending on how sweet your cherries are.
- Make multiple jars—they last up to 5 days in the fridge.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mason jar or airtight container
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl (optional)
- Spoon or whisk
Substitutions and Variations
- Dairy-free: Use plant-based milk and yogurt if adding extra creaminess.
- Protein boost: Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder (reduce oats slightly).
- Nut-free: Skip nuts and add seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
- Flavor twist: Add cocoa powder for a chocolate-cherry flavor.
- Sweetener swap: Use agave, date syrup, or mashed banana.
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare 3–5 jars at once for easy grab-and-go breakfasts. If the oats get too thick, stir in extra milk before serving.
Add toppings like granola or nuts just before eating for the best texture.
How to Make Cherry Chia Overnight Oats
1. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a bowl or jar, whisk together almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Add Oats, Chia Seeds, and Cherries
Stir in rolled oats, chia seeds, and cherries until fully combined.
3. Transfer and Chill
Pour the mixture into a mason jar, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Add Toppings and Serve
In the morning, stir well and top with granola, nuts, or extra cherries.
Leftovers and Storage
Store overnight oats in airtight jars for up to 5 days in the fridge. Stir before eating and add a splash of milk if they thicken too much.
Do not freeze, as the texture changes after thawing.
Recipe FAQ
1. Can I use dried cherries?
Yes, but soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before adding.
2. Can I make this without chia seeds?
Yes—just add an extra tablespoon of oats for thickness.
3. Can I heat these oats?
Absolutely! Microwave for 30–60 seconds with a splash of milk.
4. Can I add yogurt?
Yes, stir in 2–3 tablespoons of Greek or plant-based yogurt for creaminess.
5. Can I add protein powder?
Definitely! Vanilla or chocolate protein powder works great—reduce oats slightly.
Sweet, Creamy, and Full of Flavor
These Cherry Chia Overnight Oats are the perfect make-ahead breakfast—nutritious, filling, and packed with fruity flavor.
They’re easy to prep, endlessly customizable, and taste amazing whether you eat them cold or warm.
Make a batch this week, and enjoy a healthy breakfast that feels like dessert. If you try it, leave a comment and share your favorite toppings—I’d love to hear how you made it your own!
