Lemon Meringue Pie Overnight Oats are a bright and zesty breakfast treat. They mix creamy oats with tangy lemon and fluffy meringue, making your morning feel special!
Who knew a pie could turn into a breakfast? I love waking up to a cool, refreshing bowl that tastes like dessert! Just add some berries on top, and it feels even fancier. 🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are the base of your overnight oats, giving them great texture. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, be sure to use gluten-free oats!
Chia Seeds: They help thicken the oats while adding some healthy omega-3s. For a similar effect, you can use flaxseeds or even ground almond flour, but the texture might vary a bit.
Milk: Whether you choose dairy or plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, both work well! If you’re not a fan of the taste, coconut milk can also add a nice creaminess.
Greek Yogurt: This adds protein and creaminess. If you want a dairy-free option, try using coconut yogurt or a silken tofu blended until smooth for a similar texture.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Both sweeteners work perfectly here. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie alternative, consider using agave syrup or stevia, adjusting to taste.
Lemon Curd: It brings that signature lemon flavor. You can make it homemade or use store-bought. If you want a lighter version, lemon-flavored yogurt can also work in a pinch.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Meringue Topping?
Meringue might seem tricky, but with the right methods, it can turn out beautifully every time! It’s important to start with clean equipment and fresh egg whites for the best results.
- Make sure your mixing bowl is free from any grease. A glass or metal bowl works best.
- Begin whisking the egg whites at a medium speed until they start to foam.
- Once soft peaks form (the peaks should droop), gradually add your sugar, a spoonful at a time.
- Continue to beat until stiff, glossy peaks form. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Be patient. If the meringue looks shiny and stands tall, you’ve nailed it!
If you’re unsure about using raw egg whites, consider opting for pasteurized egg whites or a store-bought meringue topping for peace of mind.
How to Make Lemon Meringue Pie Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Oats:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or plain yogurt
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (adjust sweetness to taste)
- Zest of 1 lemon
For the Lemon Layer:
- 1/4 cup lemon curd (store-bought or homemade)
For the Meringue Topping:
- 2 egg whites
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- Lemon slices or zest for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 4-6 hours (or overnight) for the oats to soak in the fridge. The meringue topping takes an additional 10 minutes to prepare. So, plan for a total time of around 4-6 hours to overnight, plus the prep time for a delightful breakfast or dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Oats:
In a mixing bowl or jar, combine the rolled oats, chia seeds, milk, yogurt, honey, and lemon zest. Stir everything together really well until it’s nicely mixed. The oats and chia seeds will soak up the liquid wonderfully!
2. Refrigerate:
Cover your bowl or jar and pop it in the fridge for at least 4-6 hours or overnight. This will allow the oats and chia seeds to absorb the milk and soften—making them nice and creamy!
3. Layering the Oats:
When you’re ready to serve, take your chilled oats and layer them into serving jars or bowls. Go ahead and make it look pretty!
4. Add the Lemon Curd:
Spoon the lemon curd evenly over the top of the oats. This layer adds that delicious lemony flavor that makes it feel like a treat!
5. Prepare the Meringue:
Now, let’s make the meringue! Place the egg whites in a clean mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites until soft peaks start to form. This means the mixture should be fluffy but not too stiff just yet.
6. Sweeten the Meringue:
Gradually add the granulated sugar to the egg whites, continuing to beat until you get stiff and glossy peaks. This is where your meringue will really come together!
7. Add the Meringue Topping:
Spoon or use a piping bag to carefully add the meringue on top of the lemon curd layer. Make it fun—swirls and peaks are always a nice touch!
8. Brown the Meringue:
If you have a kitchen torch, now’s the time to use it! Lightly brown the surface of the meringue. If you don’t have a torch, you can also place it under a broiler for a minute, just keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
9. Garnish:
Finish it off with lemon slices or extra lemon zest for a pop of color and flavor!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delightful lemon meringue pie overnight oats immediately and enjoy the deliciously creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors. It’s like breakfast and dessert all in one!
Note: If you’re concerned about using raw egg whites, feel free to substitute with a pre-made meringue topping or a fluffy whipped cream for a simpler option.
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats, but keep in mind they will absorb liquid faster, so you may want to adjust the soaking time to only 2-4 hours. The texture will also be softer than that of rolled oats.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
To make it vegan, substitute the honey with maple syrup, use plant-based yogurt, and replace the egg whites with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) for the meringue. Whip the aquafaba just like egg whites for a fluffy topping!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover overnight oats and lemon curd in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the meringue separate until you’re ready to serve for the best texture.
Can I Make the Meringue in Advance?
While meringue is best fresh, you can prepare it a few hours ahead of time and refrigerate it, although it may lose some volume. If you’re making it in advance, try adding a touch of cornstarch to help stabilize the meringue.
