These Brown Sugar Espresso Overnight Oats are the perfect way to start your day! Creamy oats mixed with rich espresso and a touch of sweet brown sugar make for a tasty breakfast.
Making these is a breeze—just mix your ingredients, let them chill overnight, and you’re ready to enjoy a yummy morning treat. Coffee and oats in one? Yes, please! ☕️🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Use rolled oats for the best texture. You can swap them for quick oats if you’re in a hurry but skip steel-cut oats as they won’t soften enough overnight.
Milk: Any milk works here! Almond or oat milk adds a nice flavor. If you’re dairy-free, a nut milk is a great choice. For creaminess, try whole milk or even coconut milk.
Espresso: If you don’t have espresso, strong brewed coffee works just as well. For a caffeine-free option, use decaf coffee or omit it entirely.
Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar will do. You can substitute it with maple syrup or honey if you want a different sweetness profile.
Chia Seeds: These are optional but help thicken the oats. You can replace them with ground flaxseeds or simply skip them if you prefer a smoother texture.
How Do I Get the Perfect Consistency with Overnight Oats?
The key to perfect overnight oats is finding the right liquid-to-oat ratio. Generally, a 1:1 ratio of oats to liquid works well. Since espresso and milk can vary in thickness, adjust based on your preference. If it’s too thick in the morning, just add a splash more milk.
- Combine all ingredients well to ensure even flavor.
- Let it chill overnight so the oats have time to absorb the liquid and expand.
- Stir again in the morning. You can add more milk for a creamier texture if needed.
Feel free to experiment with flavors! Adding a spoonful of nut butter or fresh fruit can make these oats even more delightful.
Brown Sugar Espresso Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk of choice (e.g., almond, oat, or dairy milk)
- 1/4 cup brewed espresso, cooled
- 1-2 tbsp brown sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tbsp chia seeds (optional, for thickening)
- Coffee beans or chocolate-covered espresso beans for garnish (optional)
- Additional brown sugar or caramel sauce for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll need to let the oats chill in the refrigerator overnight, around 6-8 hours, so they can soak up all the delicious flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Your Ingredients:
In a medium-sized jar or bowl, mix together the rolled oats, milk, cooled espresso, brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon (if using), chia seeds (if using), and a pinch of salt. Use a spoon to stir the ingredients until everything is well combined.
2. Prepare for Chilling:
Seal the jar with a lid or cover the bowl with plastic wrap. This will keep it fresh. Place it in the refrigerator overnight or for at least 6 hours. This helps the oats absorb all the yummy flavors from your ingredients.
3. Get Ready to Serve:
The next morning, take your oats out of the fridge and give them a good stir. Check the consistency; if it’s too thick for your liking, add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
4. Add the Finishing Touches:
Before digging in, sprinkle some brown sugar or drizzle caramel sauce on top for extra sweetness. If you’re feeling fancy, add some coffee beans or chocolate-covered espresso beans as a garnish.
5. Enjoy Your Breakfast:
Grab a spoon and enjoy your chilled, energizing, and delicious Brown Sugar Espresso Overnight Oats!
Can I Use Instant Coffee Instead of Espresso?
Yes, you can use instant coffee mixed with hot water as a substitute for espresso. Just ensure it’s strong enough to give the oats a good coffee flavor. About 1-2 teaspoons of instant coffee dissolved in 1/4 cup of hot water should work fine!
How Long Can I Store These Overnight Oats?
You can store the prepared oats in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Keep them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Just stir and add more milk if they become too thick over time.
Can I Make These Oats Vegan?
Absolutely! Simply use any plant-based milk like almond, oat, or coconut milk, and replace honey with a vegan sweetener like maple syrup or agave. The recipe is already dairy-free!
How Can I Customize the Flavor of My Overnight Oats?
You can get creative with your toppings and mix-ins! Add fruits like bananas, berries, or apples when you serve. Nuts, seeds, or a dollop of nut butter also make great additions for extra texture and nutrition!