Coconut Cinnamon Overnight Oats

Name: Coconut Cinnamon Overnight Oats
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 tablespoon chia seeds; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; Fresh fruit and nuts for topping (optional)

Highlighted under: Light & Fresh

I love starting my day with a wholesome and delicious breakfast, and these Coconut Cinnamon Overnight Oats have become a favorite. They are incredibly easy to prepare the night before and are packed with flavors and nutrients. The combination of creamy coconut milk and the warm spice of cinnamon makes each spoonful a delight. Plus, I can customize them to my liking with additional toppings like fresh fruit or nuts, making them not only filling but also versatile for any morning mood.

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-01-27T09:37:27.343Z

When I first tried overnight oats, I was amazed by how something so simple could bring such joy to my breakfast routine. I experimented with different flavor combinations, but this Coconut Cinnamon version struck a chord. The way the coconut milk absorbs the oats overnight creates the most luscious texture. I also found that a sprinkle of cinnamon not only enhances the flavor profile but adds warmth to the dish, making it feel like a cozy morning treat.

One key tip I discovered during my trials is to let the mixture sit for at least four hours, but overnight is best. This allows the oats to fully absorb the liquid and flavors, resulting in creamy and delicious oats every time. With endless possibilities for toppings, I love that I can personalize them with fruits, seeds, or a drizzle of honey based on what I'm craving.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy coconut flavor that is refreshing and satisfying
Quick and easy preparation for busy mornings
Perfectly spiced with cinnamon for a warm, comforting taste

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of rolled oats is crucial in this recipe because they absorb the coconut milk and flavors effectively while maintaining a pleasant texture. Unlike instant oats, which can become mushy, rolled oats yield a heartier texture that's both filling and satisfying. If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, ensure that the rolled oats you choose are certified gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.

Coconut milk not only adds a refreshing creaminess but also brings healthy fats that help keep you satiated throughout the morning. Full-fat coconut milk can enhance the creaminess, while light coconut milk offers a lighter option without sacrificing flavor. For a non-dairy substitute, try using almond or oat milk, but be aware that the texture may vary slightly, altering the overall mouthfeel of the oats.

Customizing Your Oats

One of the best aspects of Coconut Cinnamon Overnight Oats is their versatility. You can easily adjust the sweetness by adding more honey or maple syrup according to your taste preference. Alternatively, if you're looking to cut sugar, consider mixing in some ripe mashed banana or applesauce for natural sweetness while boosting the fiber content.

Toppings can elevate your bowl to a new level. Fresh fruit such as berries, bananas, or mango can add a burst of flavor, while nuts or seeds like almonds or pumpkin seeds contribute a satisfying crunch. To keep things interesting, I like to switch up my toppings based on the season—cinnamon apples in the fall or tropical fruits in summer can significantly change the experience!

Ingredients

Overnight Oats

1 cup rolled oats
1 cup coconut milk
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Fresh fruit and nuts for topping (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Oats

In a medium bowl, combine rolled oats, coconut milk, chia seeds, honey, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir well to combine.

Refrigerate

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the mixture to a jar with a lid. Place it in the refrigerator and let it sit overnight, or for at least 4 hours.

Serve

In the morning, give the oats a good stir. Serve in bowls or jars and top with fresh fruit, nuts, or additional sweetener if desired.

Pro Tips

Feel free to adjust the consistency by adding more coconut milk if you prefer a thinner oatmeal. Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These overnight oats are perfect for meal prep. You can prepare a batch for the entire week ahead, storing them in individual jars for convenience. They can last up to five days in the refrigerator, so feel free to experiment with different flavors each day. Just remember to keep the toppings separate until you're ready to serve to maintain their freshness.

If you want to savor them while traveling, consider using a thermos to keep them cool. For best results, pack toppings like nuts or fruits separately and add them just before consuming to prevent sogginess.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your overnight oats too thick in the morning, simply stir in a splash more coconut milk until you reach your desired consistency. On the other hand, if the oats are too runny, it might be helpful to add another tablespoon of chia seeds to help absorb excess liquid. Allow the mixture to rest for a few more minutes before serving.

A common issue is clumping of the oats. To avoid this, ensure you mix thoroughly during the initial preparation. It also helps to let them sit for a few minutes after mixing before refrigerating, allowing the chia seeds to begin absorbing some of the liquid.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of milk?

Absolutely! You can substitute coconut milk with almond milk, soy milk, or any preferred milk alternative.

→ How long can I store these overnight oats?

You can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them a great option for meal prep!

→ Can I freeze overnight oats?

While it's not recommended to freeze them, you can prepare the oats and store them in the fridge for a quick breakfast without the need for thawing.

→ What toppings do you recommend?

I love topping them with sliced bananas, berries, nuts, and a drizzle of nut butter for extra flavor and nutrition.