Carrot Cake Overnight Oats
Woke up craving carrot cake but need something actually nutritious? These overnight oats nail every flavor from the classic dessert.
You get all that cinnamon-spice warmth plus actual shredded carrots for sweetness. No mixer required.
Shred Carrots Super Fine
Use the smallest holes on your box grater for the carrots. Big chunks won’t soften properly overnight and you’ll get weird crunchy bits. Fine shreds disappear into the oats and release their natural sweetness. About 1/3 cup of finely grated carrot per serving hits the sweet spot.
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Why Greek Yogurt Changes Everything
Regular yogurt makes the oats too thin and watery. Greek yogurt’s thick consistency creates that creamy, almost pudding-like texture you want. It also adds protein to keep you full. Mix it with the milk first before adding oats so everything combines smoothly.
Spice Timing Prevents Clumping
Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla directly to your wet ingredients before stirring in oats. Dry spices sprinkled on top just sit there and create bitter pockets. Mixing them with the liquid first distributes flavor evenly and prevents those annoying spice clumps.
Getting the Perfect Creamy Texture
- Stir the oats twice during prep – once after mixing, then again after 2 minutes to prevent clumping.
- Room temperature cream cheese mixes better than cold – take it out 30 minutes before serving.
- Double the recipe and store extras for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will steel-cut oats work instead of rolled oats?
No, steel-cut oats stay too chewy overnight. Stick with old-fashioned rolled oats for the right creamy texture.
How long do these keep in the refrigerator?
Up to 4 days covered. The texture actually improves on day two as flavors meld together.
Could I use dairy-free milk for this recipe?
Yes, but use thick coconut milk or cashew milk. Thin plant milks make the oats watery and bland.
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Carrot Cake Overnight Oats
Ingredients
Toppings
Equipment Needed
- 4 mason jars or containers with lids
- Box grater
- Large mixing bowl
Instructions
- Combine wet ingredients: Whisk together milk, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a large bowl until completely smooth.
- Grate carrots: Finely grate carrots using the smallest holes on your box grater. You need about 1 1/3 cups total.
- Mix oats and carrots: Stir grated carrots and oats into the milk mixture until evenly distributed. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir again.
- Portion and chill: Divide mixture evenly between 4 jars or containers. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
- Add toppings: Before serving, stir each portion and top with chopped walnuts, raisins, and small dollops of softened cream cheese.
Nutrition Facts
Per Serving (1 serving)
