Crème Brûlée Overnight Oats bring creamy goodness right to your breakfast table! With oats soaked in vanilla yogurt and a hint of caramel, it feels like dessert in the morning.
Who wouldn’t want to wake up to this tasty treat? I love topping mine with a sprinkle of sugar and a quick torch to create that perfect crunchy layer. Breakfast just got a whole lot better!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: These are your base, giving texture and heartiness. You can use quick oats, but they may turn mushy. Steel-cut oats can be used but need more soaking time (around 12 hours).
Milk: Any milk will work! If you’re dairy-free, almond, oat, or coconut milk are great options. I usually go with almond milk for its light flavor.
Vanilla Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and sweetness. If you can’t find it, use plain yogurt with a splash of vanilla extract and a bit of sweetener.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Both add sweetness! If you prefer, agave syrup or stevia can be used as alternatives. I love the unique flavor maple syrup brings.
Granulated Sugar: This is for creating that crunchy topping. Brown sugar is a tasty substitution if you want a caramel flavor instead!
How Do I Get the Perfect Caramelized Topping?
Caramelizing the sugar on top creates that signature crème brûlée crunch. Here’s how to nail it:
- Sprinkle an even layer of sugar on top of your oats; too thick won’t caramelize well.
- If using a kitchen torch, keep it moving in circles to prevent burning.
- For an oven method, broil on low for just a minute or so—keep a close eye!
Let it cool for about a minute; this helps the sugar harden into a crunchy layer. Enjoy the delicious contrast between smooth oats and crispy topping!
Delicious Crème Brûlée Overnight Oats Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Oats:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/2 cup vanilla Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- For the Topping:
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for caramelizing)
- Fresh berries (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 6 hours to soak overnight in the fridge. With a few minutes in the morning to add that delightful caramelized topping, you’ll have a scrumptious breakfast ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Oats:
In a mixing bowl or jar, combine the rolled oats, milk, vanilla Greek yogurt, maple syrup or honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together well until all ingredients are mixed evenly. This is where the magic begins—creamy and delicious!
2. Refrigerating Overnight:
Cover the bowl or seal the jar and place it in the fridge. Let the oats soak and soften overnight (or at least for 6 hours). This step is key for getting that perfect oatmeal texture that holds all the flavors.
3. Preparing the Oats in the Morning:
The next morning, give the oats a good stir to combine everything again. Spoon the oatmeal mixture into a small heatproof ramekin or glass jar that can withstand caramelizing. Get ready for the caramel crunch!
4. Caramelizing the Sugar:
Evenly sprinkle granulated sugar over the top of the oats to create that delightful topping. Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar by moving the flame in circles above the sugar until it melts and turns golden brown. If you don’t have a torch, you can carefully broil it for just a minute or so, keeping a close watch to prevent burning.
5. Cooling and Serving:
After caramelizing, let the topping cool for about a minute so it can harden into a crispy layer. This is the best part—enjoying the contrast between the smooth oats and the crunchy goodness on top! Serve immediately with fresh berries on the side if you like.
Enjoy this indulgent yet wholesome breakfast twist on a classic French dessert! It’s sure to please anyone who tries it!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but be aware that they may become mushier since they cook faster. If you prefer a more textured oatmeal, stick with rolled oats for the best results!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, simply use plant-based yogurt (like coconut or almond yogurt) and swap honey for maple syrup or agave. Enjoy a delicious vegan breakfast!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can enjoy them cold or gently reheat them in the microwave; just wait to add the caramelized sugar until serving to keep that crunch!
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits before soaking, or you can top your oats with fresh fruit, nut butter, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce before serving!
