12 Best Christmas Overnight Oats Recipes to Start Your Holiday Mornings Right

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Christmas overnight oats are the ideal solution for busy holiday mornings when you want something festive, nourishing, and ready the moment you wake up. These recipes combine wholesome oats with seasonal flavours such as gingerbread, cranberry, peppermint, and chocolate, creating breakfast options that feel celebratory without requiring early-morning effort. I love preparing several jars the night before; it gives me a sense of calm knowing breakfast is handled during the busiest season of the year. I once tried making my oats with warm almond milk before refrigerating, and the result was incredibly creamy. Whether you are hosting guests, preparing breakfast for children, or simply treating yourself to something comforting, these Christmas overnight oats offer both convenience and indulgence. With variations ranging from fruity to dessert-inspired, you will easily find one (or twelve) that fits your holiday mood.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Below is a general ingredient breakdown used across most Christmas overnight oats recipes. Each recipe varies slightly, but these core ingredients create the base of all twelve festive versions.

Rolled oats

The foundation of every overnight oats recipe. Rolled oats soften beautifully overnight, absorbing liquid while keeping a pleasant texture.

Milk or dairy-free milk

Regular, almond, soy, or oat milk all work well. Each provides creaminess and helps adjust texture. I often use unsweetened almond milk for its subtle nutty flavour.

Greek yogurt

Adds creaminess, extra protein, and tang. It also makes the oats thicker and more satisfying.

Chia seeds

These help thicken the mixture naturally and contribute fibre and omega-3s.

Honey or maple syrup

Natural sweeteners that blend seamlessly into the oats. Maple syrup is especially fitting for Christmas flavours.

Cinnamon

A warming spice essential for Christmas recipes. It enhances everything from apple pie oats to gingerbread versions.

Nutmeg

Used sparingly for depth and warmth, especially in eggnog or holiday spice oats.

Vanilla extract

Adds an aromatic sweetness that complements nearly every flavour combination.

Fruit mix-ins

Fresh or dried cranberries, apples, pears, or cherries enhance sweetness, texture, and colour.

Christmas add-ins

This includes cocoa powder, crushed peppermint, ginger, molasses, or chocolate chips depending on the theme of each recipe.

Directions

Combine rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, and chia seeds in a jar or airtight container. Stir until the mixture is fully blended. Add your chosen sweetener and a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to develop that cosy Christmas flavour. Once your base is ready, incorporate any fruit, cocoa, spices, or holiday-themed additions depending on the specific recipe you are preparing.

Seal the jar and refrigerate overnight or for at least six hours. The oats will absorb the liquid and soften, resulting in a creamy, spoonable texture. If you prefer a looser consistency, simply add more milk the next morning. I sometimes warm mine slightly in the microwave for ten seconds, just enough to take off the chill without turning it into hot oats.

Before serving, top your oats with festive garnishes: cranberries, nuts, whipped yogurt, or a drizzle of syrup. Each of the twelve recipes follows this same easy process but incorporates unique flavours that align perfectly with seasonal celebrations.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.

Servings and timing

Each overnight oats jar serves 1 person. You can prepare multiple jars at once.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Chill time: Minimum 6 hours or overnight

Storage/reheating

Store prepared oats in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep toppings such as fruit or nuts separate until serving to maintain freshness. Overnight oats can be eaten cold or gently warmed in the microwave for a few seconds, though warming may soften fruit.

Variations and Customizations

Gingerbread Overnight Oats

Molasses, ginger, and cinnamon recreate the classic gingerbread flavour.

Cranberry Orange Oats

Fresh or dried cranberries paired with orange zest create a bright, seasonal combination.

Peppermint Chocolate Oats

Cocoa powder and crushed peppermint offer a festive dessert-like twist.

Eggnog Overnight Oats

Use eggnog instead of milk for a rich, custard-like holiday breakfast.

Apple Pie Overnight Oats

Add sautéed apples, cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg for comforting winter flavours.

Chocolate Cherry Oats

Rich chocolate blended with sweet cherries creates a luxurious seasonal treat.

Maple Pecan Oats

Maple syrup and toasted pecans evoke classic wintertime warmth.

Hot Cocoa Overnight Oats

Cocoa powder, milk, and mini marshmallows capture the flavour of hot chocolate.

White Chocolate Cranberry Oats

A sweet and tart combination using dried cranberries and white chocolate chips.

Spiced Pear Oats

Pears, cloves, and nutmeg deliver a fragrant, cosy breakfast.

Caramel Apple Oats

Stir in caramel sauce and apple chunks for a dessert-inspired morning treat.

Almond Joy Holiday Oats

Coconut, almonds, and chocolate bring the flavours of the beloved confection to breakfast.

FAQs

Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?

Only if they are the quick-cook variety; traditional steel-cut oats do not soften enough overnight.

Are these recipes dairy-free?

They can be, simply substitute milk and yogurt for plant-based alternatives.

Do I need chia seeds?

No, but they help thicken the mixture and improve texture.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, adjust the sweetener based on your preference.

How long do overnight oats last?

Up to 4 days when stored correctly.

Can I add protein powder?

Yes, just increase the liquid slightly to maintain a smooth consistency.

Should fruit be added before or after chilling?

Dense fruits can be added before, but delicate berries are best added just before serving.

Can overnight oats be frozen?

They do not freeze well due to texture changes.

Why are my oats too thick?

Add extra milk and stir until you reach your preferred consistency.

Can I prepare all twelve variations at once?

Yes, simply divide the base mixture into jars and customise each one separately.

Conclusion

These twelve Christmas overnight oats recipes offer festive flavour, convenience, and endless customisation for holiday mornings. Their simplicity makes them ideal for busy households, yet their seasonal touches make every jar feel special. Whether you gravitate toward warming spices, fruity notes, or dessert-inspired combinations, each variation brings holiday cheer to the breakfast table.

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