These Lemon Meringue Pie Overnight Oats are a tasty treat that bring the flavors of dessert to breakfast! Creamy oats mixed with zesty lemon and fluffy meringue make for a delightful morning.
Who knew you could enjoy pie for breakfast? I love waking up to a sweet citrus flavor! Just mix everything the night before, and you’re set for a bright start to your day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled oats: Use rolled oats for the best texture. Steel-cut oats work too, but will need more soaking time. Instant oats are not recommended as they can become too mushy. If gluten-free, check for certified gluten-free oats.
Chia seeds: These give the oats a nice, thick texture while adding healthy fats and fiber. If you don’t have them, you can skip them, but the oats might be less filling. Flaxseeds can be a good substitute.
Milk: Use any milk you like—almond, soy, oat, or regular dairy milk all work well. I love almond milk for its nutty flavor, but any choice will be delicious!
Greek yogurt: This is optional but adds creaminess and protein. If avoiding dairy, use a plant-based yogurt. Alternatively, you can skip it entirely if desired.
Lemon curd: You can use store-bought lemon curd for convenience, or make your own if you have the time. For a lower sugar alternative, try using unsweetened applesauce mixed with lemon juice and zest.
How Do I Achieve Perfect Meringue?
Getting the meringue right is important, but it can be tricky. Here are some tips to help you create that fluffy topping:
- Start with clean, dry mixing bowls and beaters to ensure the egg whites whip properly.
- Beat the egg whites until soft peaks form—this means they should hold a gentle shape but not be stiff. A good test is to lift the beaters and see if peaks form and gently bend over.
- Gradually add sugar while continuing to beat. This helps dissolve the sugar and creates a smooth meringue.
- Once you have glossy, stiff peaks, it’s ready to top your oats!
- When toasting, keep an eye on the meringue; it can brown quickly. A kitchen torch works best for control.
How to Make Lemon Meringue Pie Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Oats:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/3 cup chia seeds
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup lemon curd or fresh lemon curd substitute
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Zest of one lemon
For the Meringue:
- 2 egg whites (for meringue)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar (for meringue)
Garnishes (Optional):
- Lemon slices
- Toasted coconut flakes
- Poppy seeds
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll need to let it chill overnight or for at least 4 hours, so plan ahead! The toasting of the meringue takes just a few minutes, making this a simple yet impressive breakfast.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
In a mixing bowl or jar, combine the rolled oats, chia seeds, milk, Greek yogurt, honey, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Stir everything well until blended and evenly mixed. This will be your creamy base!
2. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover the bowl or jar with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, let it chill for at least 4 hours. This will allow the oats and chia seeds to soak up the milk and thicken nicely.
3. Add the Lemon Curds:
Once the oats have thickened and chilled, take them out of the fridge. Gently fold in the lemon curd into the chilled oats mixture, or layer the lemon curd on top for a beautiful presentation.
4. Prepare the Meringue:
For the fluffy topping, make sure you use a clean mixing bowl. Beat the egg whites with a mixer on medium speed until soft peaks start to form. Slowly add in the granulated sugar while continuing to beat until the mixture is glossy with stiff peaks.
5. Top with Meringue:
Using a spoon or piping bag, carefully place the meringue on top of your layered oats and lemon curd. Feel free to create peaks or swirls for an extra wow factor!
6. Toast the Meringue:
If you have a kitchen torch, lightly toast the meringue until it turns golden brown. If you don’t have a torch, you can briefly place it under the broiler in the oven, just be sure to watch it closely to avoid burning.
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
For an extra touch, garnish with thin lemon slices, toasted coconut flakes, and a sprinkle of poppy seeds. Serve immediately, and savor your refreshing lemon meringue pie-inspired breakfast!
This delightful recipe captures the essence of lemon meringue pie in a healthy, make-ahead breakfast option. Enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors as you kick-start your day!
Can I Use Store-Bought Lemon Curd?
Absolutely! Store-bought lemon curd is a convenient option and saves time. Just make sure to choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Overnight Oats?
Store any leftover overnight oats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before eating as it may thicken further.
Can I Make This Vegan?
Yes! You can easily make this recipe vegan by using plant-based yogurt, substituting aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) for the egg whites in the meringue, and opting for a plant-based sweetener like maple syrup instead of honey.
What Can I Substitute for Chia Seeds?
If you don’t have chia seeds, you can omit them and use an additional tablespoon of rolled oats for thickness, though the texture will be slightly different. Flaxseeds can also be a good substitute, but they won’t thicken in the same way.