Why You’ll Love Apple Pie Overnight Oats Recipe

Combines the cozy flavor of apple pie with the simplicity of overnight oats
Requires just a handful of wholesome ingredients
Perfect for prepping ahead: make it the night before and grab it in the morning
Vegan, gluten‑free and naturally sweetened — great for many dietary preferences
Great texture: soft apples plus creamy oats = satisfying in every bite

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the apples:
• crisp, sweet apple (peeled optional)
• ground cinnamon
• maple syrup
• pinch of sea salt

For the overnight oats:
• dairy‑free milk (or any milk of your choice)
• chia seeds
• maple syrup
• ground cinnamon
• creamy unsalted nut butter (cashew or almond recommended)
• vanilla extract
• rolled oats (gluten‑free certified if needed)

Directions

In a small saucepan, add the chopped apple, cinnamon, maple syrup and salt. Stir to combine. Cover and cook on low heat for about 10 minutes, until the apple pieces are tender.
Remove the lid, increase the heat to medium, and cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until most of the liquid has evaporated and the apples are syrupy. Set aside to cool slightly.
In a bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the milk, chia seeds, maple syrup, cinnamon, nut butter and vanilla until smooth. Stir in the rolled oats until fully combined.
Divide the cooked apples between two jars or containers. Spoon in the oat mixture evenly, then top with the remaining apples.
Seal the containers and refrigerate overnight (or at least 6 hours).
In the morning, enjoy chilled or at room temperature. Optionally, stir in a splash of milk or gently warm before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2 jars (or two portions)
Prep time: 15 minutes
Refrigeration time: at least 6 hours
Total time: approximately 6 hours 30 minutes

Variations

Higher protein: Add a scoop of protein powder or a dollop of Greek yogurt (if not vegan)
Different nut butter: Substitute peanut butter for almond or cashew, using a smaller amount
Swap the milk: Use any milk variety — oat, soy, dairy, etc.
Fruit twist: Mix in diced pear with the apples for added flavor
Texture tweak: Reduce the milk slightly for thicker oats
Sweetness adjustment: Decrease or omit maple syrup to lower the sweetness

Storage/Reheating

Store in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days in sealed containers
For a warm version, stir in a splash of milk and microwave gently, stirring halfway
Not recommended for freezing, as the texture will suffer

FAQs

What kind of oats should I use?

Rolled oats (also known as old-fashioned oats) are ideal. Avoid steel-cut oats, as they won’t soften properly overnight.

Can I skip the nut butter?

Yes. While it adds creaminess and a protein boost, you can omit it without compromising the overall flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes — as long as you use certified gluten-free rolled oats, the recipe is completely gluten-free.

Can I use regular dairy milk instead of a plant-based one?

Absolutely. Dairy milk works just as well and can be substituted in equal measure.

Can I prepare just one serving?

Yes, simply halve all the ingredients to make a single portion.

Do I have to layer the apples and oats, or can I mix everything together?

Layering provides a nice texture and presentation, but mixing everything together will still yield a tasty result.

Can I eat it right away, or does it need to sit overnight?

It’s best to let it sit for at least 6 hours, ideally overnight, to allow the oats and chia seeds to soften.

Is this suitable for meal prep?

Definitely. Make multiple servings and store in the fridge for a quick grab-and-go breakfast throughout the week.

Could I warm it up instead of eating it cold?

Yes, you can gently heat it in the microwave with a bit of added milk. Just be mindful that it may thicken as it warms.

How can I make it less sweet?

Use less maple syrup in either the apples or oat mixture, or both, depending on your taste preference.

Conclusion

This Apple Pie Overnight Oats recipe offers all the cozy warmth of a traditional dessert in a nourishing, ready-to-go breakfast. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and perfect for busy mornings. Whether you’re looking for a vegan-friendly meal prep option or a comforting seasonal breakfast, this dish delivers on flavor, texture, and convenience.