Wake up to these tasty Brown Sugar Espresso Overnight Oats! Made with coffee, rolled oats, and a touch of brown sugar, they are creamy and energizing.
I love making these the night before, so breakfast is ready in the morning. It’s like having dessert for breakfast without the guilt (just don’t blame me if you want seconds)! ☕️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are perfect for overnight oats since they soak up the liquid well. If you have quick oats on hand, you can use them but the texture will be softer. Steel-cut oats aren’t recommended for this recipe as they need more cooking time.
Milk: Use any milk you like! Dairy milk, almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk all work great. If you’re looking for a creamier option, try a full-fat dairy milk or a creamy plant-based variety.
Espresso: I recommend strong brewed espresso for robust flavor. If you don’t have espresso, strong brewed coffee will also work. For a caffeine-free option, use decaf or skip the coffee altogether!
Brown Sugar: While brown sugar gives a nice caramel flavor, you can substitute it with maple syrup or honey for a different sweetness. If you prefer a lower-calorie sweetener, stevia or monk fruit sweetener can be great options, just adjust to taste.
How Do I Get the Right Texture for My Overnight Oats?
Achieving the perfect texture in overnight oats involves the balance of liquid and oats. Rolled oats absorb liquid well and create a creamy consistency overnight. If you find your oats too thick in the morning, simply add a splash of milk and stir until creamy.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly before sealing to ensure even soaking.
- Store in the fridge overnight for at least 6 hours; this allows the oats to soften and flavors to meld.
- Adjust milk in the morning based on your preferred consistency. More milk creates a creamier bowl!
Brown Sugar Espresso Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup brewed espresso, cooled
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter or almond butter (for topping)
- A sprinkle of chopped chocolate or coffee nibs (for garnish)
- Extra oats (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time. Then, let the oats soak in the fridge overnight, or for at least 6 hours. In the morning, you can enjoy a delicious, energizing breakfast that’s ready to go!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
In a mason jar or a bowl, start by adding the rolled oats, milk, cooled espresso, brown sugar, Greek yogurt (if you’re using it), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Make sure to combine everything really well—this helps the brown sugar dissolve and ensures all ingredients are mixed evenly.
2. Prepare for Refrigeration:
Seal the jar tightly or cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap. This step is important so that the oats can soak up all the delicious flavors while they sit in the fridge overnight.
3. Chill Overnight:
Put your jar or bowl in the refrigerator and let it sit overnight (or at least for 6 hours). This allows the oats to soak up the liquid and become nice and creamy.
4. Serve in the Morning:
When you’re ready for breakfast, give the oats a good stir. If they seem a little thick, just add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency. Now for the fun part—top your oats with a generous spoonful of peanut butter or almond butter!
5. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finish off your bowl with a sprinkle of extra rolled oats and a few pieces of chopped chocolate or coffee nibs for that extra touch. Serve your delicious Brown Sugar Espresso Overnight Oats chilled, and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors!
Happy eating!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, but keep in mind that instant oats absorb liquid faster and will result in a softer texture. If using instant oats, you may want to reduce the soaking time to 4 hours or just make sure to mix them thoroughly with the liquids before refrigerating.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make the Brown Sugar Espresso Overnight Oats vegan, simply use plant-based milk (like almond, soy, or oat milk) and omit the Greek yogurt, or substitute it with a dairy-free yogurt option. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan!
What Can I Add for Extra Protein?
If you’re looking to boost the protein content, you can add a scoop of protein powder to the mixture before refrigerating. Alternatively, consider topping your oats with some sliced almonds, chia seeds, or extra Greek yogurt in the morning for added protein.
How Long Do Leftovers Last?
The overnight oats can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep them in a sealed jar or airtight container. Just give them a quick stir and add a splash of milk if needed before enjoying again!
