Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Carrot Cake Overnight Oats offer a delicious and healthy twist on your favorite dessert. With the flavors of carrot cake packed into a nutritious breakfast, you’ll enjoy sweet, spiced oats topped with nuts, raisins, and a creamy white chocolate cream cheese frosting. The addition of protein powder makes this a protein-packed meal, perfect for starting your day on a high note. Plus, it’s easy to prepare the night before for a quick and satisfying breakfast.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Certified gluten-free oats or quick oats
- Unsweetened almond milk (or other plant-based milk)
- Chia seeds
- Protein powder
- Cinnamon and nutmeg
- Shredded carrots
- Pecans (or walnuts or pistachios)
- Raisins (optional, or substitute with cranberries)
- White chocolate chips (or vegan alternative)
- Greek yogurt (or thick coconut yogurt for a vegan option)
- Cream cheese (or vegan cream cheese)
- Optional: Maple syrup, vanilla extract, almond butter, unsweetened coconut flakes, salt
Directions
- In a bowl, combine oats, almond milk, chia seeds, and protein powder.
- Stir in cinnamon, nutmeg, shredded carrots, raisins, and pecans.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours.
- In the morning, top the oats with Greek yogurt, cream cheese, white chocolate chips, and a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.
- Serve cold or microwave for 1 minute to warm up.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 1-2
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Chill time: 4 hours (or overnight)
- Total time: 4 hours 5 minutes (or overnight)
Storage/Reheating
Store the leftover Carrot Cake Overnight Oats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also heat them in the microwave for a warm breakfast option.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes, you can use any milk of your choice, such as oat milk, coconut milk, or even regular cow’s milk.
2. Are steel-cut oats suitable for this recipe?
No, steel-cut oats are too tough for overnight oats and will not soften enough in the fridge.
3. Can I skip the protein powder?
Yes, you can skip the protein powder or substitute it with additional Greek yogurt or nut butter for protein.
4. How long do these overnight oats last?
They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
5. Can I add a sweetener to the oats?
Yes, you can sweeten them with maple syrup, honey, or a sweetener of your choice.
6. Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes, you can easily make it vegan by using plant-based yogurt and cream cheese alternatives.
7. Can I blend the ingredients for smoother oats?
Yes, you can blend the oats with the liquid and protein powder for a smoother texture before adding the mix-ins.
8. Are there any variations I can try with this recipe?
You can add coconut flakes, swap the raisins for cranberries, or use different nuts like walnuts or pistachios.
9. Can I make this a grab-and-go breakfast?
Yes, these oats are perfect for meal prep and can be stored in individual containers for easy grab-and-go breakfasts.
10. Can I heat up these oats?
Yes, you can microwave them for 1-2 minutes for a warm breakfast option.
Conclusion
These Carrot Cake Overnight Oats are an incredible way to start your day with a healthy, protein-packed breakfast that tastes just like dessert. With minimal prep and tons of flavor, it’s a perfect meal for anyone looking for a nutritious and satisfying breakfast. Try them today and enjoy the wholesome flavors of carrot cake in every bite!
