These Brown Sugar Espresso Overnight Oats are a delicious way to start your day! They are creamy, sweet, and packed with a delightful coffee kick to wake you up.
Making them is super easy! Just mix oats, milk, espresso, and brown sugar in a jar. Let it sit overnight, then enjoy your tasty breakfast without any morning stress. Who doesn’t love that? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Use rolled oats for a creamy texture that’s perfect for overnight soaking. If you’re after a gluten-free option, look for certified gluten-free oats.
Milk: You can use any milk—dairy, almond, oat, or soy. I enjoy almond milk for its nutty flavor, but feel free to choose what you like best!
Espresso: Brewed espresso adds a strong coffee flavor. Don’t worry if you don’t have an espresso machine! Strong brewed coffee works just as well. Instant coffee can be used in a pinch, but adjust the amount to taste.
Brown Sugar: This adds a rich sweetness. For a healthier touch, try maple syrup or agave syrup, but adjust the amount as needed since they are liquid sweeteners.
Chia Seeds: They are optional, but I love them for the added nutrition and thicker texture they provide! Flaxseed meal is a great alternative if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do You Get the Perfect Texture for Overnight Oats?
Getting the right texture is key for delicious overnight oats. It all comes down to the oats’ absorption of liquid. Here’s how to make sure yours turn out great:
- Start with the correct ratio, as outlined in the recipe. Stick to the 1:1 ratio of oats to milk for ideal consistency.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight or at least for 6 hours. This waiting time is crucial for the oats to soak in the milk and espresso.
- In the morning, give them a good stir. If they seem too thick, slowly mix in a little extra milk until you reach the desired creamy consistency.
Experimenting a bit can help you find your perfect oats texture, so don’t be afraid to adjust! Enjoy your breakfast!
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
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (packed)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional, for texture and nutrition)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Whipped cream or yogurt for topping (optional)
- Chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips for garnish
- Fresh raspberries for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and then a minimum of 6 hours to chill overnight in the refrigerator. It’s perfect for meal prep, so you can get a delicious breakfast ready in advance without any morning stress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix Your Ingredients:
In a medium bowl or jar, combine the rolled oats, milk, cooled espresso, brown sugar, chia seeds (if you’re using them), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. This is where all the magic begins!
2. Stir it Up:
Give everything a good stir to ensure all ingredients are nicely mixed together. Make sure the brown sugar is dissolved; we want every spoonful to be sweet and delicious.
3. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover your bowl or jar with a lid or plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge overnight, or at least for 6 hours. This waiting time allows the oats to soak up all that yummy liquid and soften perfectly.
4. Morning Time – Stir it Again:
When you’re ready to enjoy your oats in the morning, stir them once more. If it’s too thick for your liking, just add a splash of milk to thin it out a bit to your preferred consistency.
5. Serve and Top:
Spoon your oats into a serving glass or bowl. If you’re feeling indulgent, you can top it with a layer of whipped cream or yogurt for a creamy finish.
6. Add Extra Flavor:
If you love a little extra coffee kick, drizzle some additional brewed espresso on top or a bit of espresso caramel sauce for a sweet, coffee-infused touch.
7. Garnish to Impress:
Sprinkle some chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips on top for a delightful crunch. Don’t forget to add some fresh raspberries for a pop of color and freshness!
8. Dig In:
Serve immediately and enjoy the rich bittersweet coffee flavor combined with the sweetness of brown sugar and creamy oats. It’s the perfect energizing breakfast or snack to keep you going!
This recipe serves one, making it an easy and delightful choice for a solo breakfast or a quick snack. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use instant oats, but be aware that they will absorb liquid even faster. Reduce the soaking time to about 3-4 hours to prevent them from getting too mushy.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Simply use plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk, and for the topping, opt for dairy-free whipped cream or yogurt. Your delicious oats will still be creamy and satisfying!
Can I Prep This Recipe for Meal Prep?
Absolutely! These overnight oats are perfect for meal prep. Just make a few jars at once and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’re quick, convenient, and tasty for busy mornings!
Can I Add Other Ingredients for Extra Flavor?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite fruits like bananas, apples, or nuts. You can also add spices such as cinnamon or cocoa powder for some extra flavor and variety!
