Crème Brûlée Overnight Oats are a sweet and creamy treat you can enjoy any morning! They have the yummy flavors of vanilla and caramel, just like the classic dessert.
The best part? No cooking is needed! I love making a big batch the night before. That way, breakfast is ready to go when I’m still half asleep! 😴
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are perfect for this recipe as they soak up the liquid overnight. If you want a quicker option, instant oats work too, but they might get mushy. Steel-cut oats are too hearty unless you soak them longer.
Milk: Use any type you prefer! Cow’s milk, almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk will all work well. I personally like using almond milk for a nutty flavor.
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and protein. If you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based yogurt or silken tofu for similar texture and health benefits.
Vanilla Extract: A staple for adding that sweet, aromatic flavor. If you’re out of vanilla extract, vanilla bean paste or even a splash of almond extract can be a nice twist.
Maple Syrup or Honey: Both sweeteners bring a lovely sweetness. If you’re vegan, use maple syrup. You can also substitute with agave syrup or a sugar-free sweetener if needed.
How Do I Get the Perfect Caramelized Sugar Top?
Getting that crispy, caramelized sugar on top can seem tricky, but it’s easier than you think! Here’s how to achieve that perfect crust:
- Ensure your oats are in a heatproof dish, like a ramekin.
- Once you sprinkle the brown sugar, use a kitchen torch to caramelize it. Move the torch in a circular motion to evenly distribute the heat.
- Don’t rush it! Allow the sugar to bubble and turn golden brown. It should only take about 30 seconds.
- If you don’t have a torch, you can broil it in the oven. Just keep a close eye on it—sugar can burn quickly!
- Let it cool for a minute so the sugar hardens before digging in.
Crème Brûlée Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (for topping)
- Optional: fresh berries for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 6 hours or overnight for soaking. In total, you’ll spend a bit of time in the kitchen, but the rest of the magic happens while the oats soak in the fridge. Super easy with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Base:
In a medium bowl or jar, combine the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, maple syrup (or honey), and a pinch of salt. Use a spoon or whisk to gently stir everything together until it’s nicely combined. You want your oats to be evenly coated with the creamy mixture!
2. Refrigerating the Oats:
Once everything is mixed, cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap if you’re using a bowl. Place it in the fridge and let it chill for at least 6 hours or, better yet, overnight. This allows the oats to soak up the liquid and soften, making them creamy and delicious.
3. Preparing for Serving:
In the morning, simply give the oats a good stir to mix it all up again. Then, divide the mixture evenly into small heatproof ramekins or jars. This step is important because it helps you achieve that beautiful crispy top later on!
4. Caramelizing the Sugar:
Sprinkle about 1 tablespoon of brown sugar on top of each portion. Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar by moving the flame over it until it melts and turns golden brown. This should only take about 30 seconds—just keep an eye on it!
5. Cooling and Enjoying:
Let the caramelized sugar cool and harden for about a minute. Once the top is set, your Crème Brûlée Overnight Oats are ready! Serve them immediately, and for a fresh twist, add some berries on top if you like.
Dig in and enjoy this delightful breakfast that tastes just like dessert!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but keep in mind they may result in a softer texture. They absorb liquid faster, so adjust the soaking time to about 4-5 hours instead of overnight.
How Should I Store Any Leftovers?
Leftover overnight oats can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, you’ll want to caramelize the sugar just before serving for that perfect crunch! Just keep the brown sugar separate until you’re ready to enjoy.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, replace the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use maple syrup instead of honey. Choose a dairy-free milk option as well, like almond or coconut milk.
Is It Possible to Prep This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the oats a couple of days in advance by mixing and soaking them. Just remember to store the brown sugar separately, and caramelize it right before serving for the best experience!
