Pin This festive gingerbread overnight oats recipe transforms your ordinary breakfast into a holiday treat without any morning fuss. The warming spices infuse into creamy oats while you sleep, and the vibrant cranberry compote adds the perfect sweet-tart balance for a breakfast that feels special enough for Christmas morning yet simple enough for everyday.
I created this recipe last December when hosting family for the holidays. With everyone waking at different times and the chaos of gift opening, having these jars ready in the fridge saved our mornings and has become our new holiday breakfast tradition.
Ingredients
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: provide the hearty base and release their creaminess overnight while maintaining some texture. Look for thick-cut varieties for the best results.
- Unsweetened almond milk: keeps the oats light. The neutral flavor lets the spices shine through.
- Greek yogurt: adds protein and creates that luscious pudding-like consistency that makes overnight oats so satisfying.
- Maple syrup: offers natural sweetness with caramel notes that complement the spices perfectly.
- Molasses: brings authentic gingerbread flavor and depth. Use blackstrap for more intense flavor or regular for milder taste.
- Warming spices: including cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves create that classic gingerbread profile. Fresh spices make all the difference here.
- Fresh or frozen cranberries: provide bright color and tartness to balance the sweet oats. Choose firm berries with vibrant color if using fresh.
- Orange juice and zest: add citrus notes that enhance the cranberries naturally. Use freshly squeezed for the brightest flavor.
Instructions
- Prepare the oat base:
- Combine the rolled oats, almond milk, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, and molasses in a large mixing bowl. The mixture should look somewhat loose as the oats will absorb liquid overnight. Stir thoroughly to ensure no dry pockets remain.
- Add the spice blend:
- Sprinkle in the cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, salt, and vanilla extract. These warming spices will infuse throughout the mixture as it chills, creating that distinctive gingerbread flavor profile that makes this breakfast special.
- Portion and refrigerate:
- Divide the mixture evenly among four jars or containers. Seal tightly with lids and place in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or overnight. The oats need this time to soften and absorb the flavors fully.
- Prepare the cranberry compote:
- Combine cranberries, maple syrup, orange juice, orange zest, and cinnamon in a small saucepan over medium heat. Watch as the cranberries begin to pop and release their juices, creating a vibrant sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Simmer to perfection:
- Allow the compote to bubble gently for 10-15 minutes until most cranberries have burst and the mixture has thickened to a jammy consistency. Remove from heat and let cool completely before refrigerating.
- Assemble and serve:
- In the morning, give your oats a quick stir if they seem too thick. Top each jar with a generous spoonful of cranberry compote. Add optional toppings like chopped nuts, crystallized ginger, or an extra dollop of yogurt for added texture and flavor.
Pin Molasses is my secret ingredient here. While many overnight oat recipes rely solely on honey or maple syrup, that spoonful of molasses transforms these from ordinary spiced oats into something that truly captures the essence of gingerbread. My grandmother always added molasses to her holiday baking, and incorporating it here brings back those warm kitchen memories.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These overnight oats are the ultimate make-ahead breakfast, designed to be prepared in advance. The oat mixture will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making this perfect for weekly meal prep. Store the cranberry compote separately in an airtight container where it will keep for up to a week.
If you notice the oats becoming too thick after a couple of days, simply stir in a splash of additional milk before serving to reach your desired consistency. The flavors actually continue to develop and improve after the first day, making this one of those rare recipes that gets better with time in the refrigerator.
Dietary Adaptations
This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to meet various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. For a vegan version, substitute the Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt or silken tofu blended with a bit of lemon juice for tanginess. The protein content will vary slightly, but the creamy texture remains.
For gluten-free eaters, simply ensure you're using certified gluten-free oats, as regular oats can sometimes be processed in facilities that also handle wheat. Those watching sugar intake can reduce the maple syrup and rely more on the natural sweetness from the cranberry compote.
If you have nut allergies, swap the almond milk for oat milk, rice milk, or regular dairy milk. The recipe works beautifully with any liquid base you prefer, though each will impart a slightly different flavor profile to the final dish.
Seasonal Variations
Winter celebration Use crystallized ginger and a sprinkle of white chocolate chips for a festive holiday breakfast
Spring refresh Swap cranberry compote for stewed rhubarb or strawberries and add lemon zest to brighten
Summer delight Top with fresh berries instead of compote and add a sprinkle of cardamom for complexity
Serving Suggestions
Transform these overnight oats into a beautiful breakfast board by serving them in clear glasses with layers of compote visible. Add small bowls of various toppings like toasted coconut flakes, chopped nuts, and additional fruit for guests to customize their portions.
For a special brunch, pair these oats with a platter of citrus segments and a pitcher of mimosas. The bright acidity of both complements the rich, spiced flavors of the gingerbread oats perfectly. During the holiday season, I love setting out a "breakfast bar" with these oats as the centerpiece, alongside coffee and tea options.
For added indulgence, warm the cranberry compote slightly before spooning it over the chilled oats. The temperature contrast creates an interesting sensory experience that elevates this simple breakfast to something truly special.
Pin These gingerbread overnight oats offer a delightful blend of festive spices and tangy fruit, creating a satisfying and convenient breakfast experience that brings holiday cheer to any morning.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do you achieve creamy oats overnight?
Letting oats soak with milk and yogurt overnight softens them and creates a rich, creamy texture without cooking.
- → Can you use frozen cranberries for the compote?
Yes, both fresh and frozen cranberries work well. Simmer until they burst and the compote thickens.
- → What toppings pair best with gingerbread-spiced oats?
Chopped nuts, crystallized ginger, extra yogurt, or a sprinkle of granola add flavor, crunch, and creaminess.
- → How can this breakfast be made vegan?
Choose plant-based yogurt and ensure the sweetener is vegan, such as maple syrup, for a dairy-free option.
- → How long can you store the cranberry compote?
Compote keeps up to 5 days in the refrigerator, making it convenient for meal prep and quick breakfasts.