Carrot Cake Overnight Oats

Why You’ll Love Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe

You’ll love this recipe because it gives you all the cozy comfort of carrot cake for breakfast — but in a wholesome, approachable way. It’s easy to make ahead, can be made gluten‑free, refined sugar‑free, and even dairy‑free with simple swaps. It’s nutritious, satisfying, flavourful and perfect for busy mornings. The texture is creamy, the spices warm (cinnamon, nutmeg), and the mix of shredded carrot, walnuts and raisins gives it both crunch and chew.

Ingredients

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

• Rolled oats

• Ground cinnamon

• Ground nutmeg

• Grated carrots (finely chopped)

• Maple syrup (or honey/agave)

• Vanilla almond milk (or any milk of choice)

• Vanilla Greek yoghurt (or plant‑based yoghurt)

• Shredded unsweetened coconut (optional)

• Chopped walnuts

• Raisins or chopped dates (optional)

• Optional topping: white chocolate chips, coconut oil, additional vanilla Greek yoghurt

Directions

1. In two mason jars (or two bowls with lids), divide the oats, cinnamon, nutmeg, grated carrots, maple syrup, almond milk, Greek yoghurt, shredded coconut, chopped walnuts and raisins/dates. Mix until evenly distributed.

2. For the topping (if using): melt the white chocolate chips with coconut oil in short bursts (e.g., microwave 30 seconds at a time) until smooth. Then whisk in the vanilla Greek yoghurt slowly (about 1 tablespoon at a time) until blended.

3. Pour or spoon the topping over each jar of overnight oats. If desired, add extra shredded coconut, chopped carrots or chopped walnuts on top.

4. Cover the jars and refrigerate overnight (or at least for several hours) so the oats soak and soften.

5. In the morning, enjoy straight from the fridge. You may eat cold, or warm slightly if you prefer.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 2 jars (2 servings)

• Prep time: 5 minutes (night before)

• Total time: 5 minutes preparation + overnight chilling

Variations

• Swap the walnuts for pecans, almonds or hazelnuts.

• Replace the raisins/dates with dried cranberries or chopped dried cherries.

• Use plant‑based Greek yoghurt (e.g., almond‑milk yoghurt) for a dairy‑free/vegan option.

• Skip the white chocolate‑yoghurt topping if you’d like a lighter version; alternatively top with vanilla yoghurt and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

• Add a teaspoon of ground ginger or orange zest for extra flavour dimension.

• Increase shredded carrots for more veggie content, or add pineapple chunks for a sweet‑tropical twist.

Storage/Reheating

These overnight oats can be stored in the refrigerator for 2‑3 days in airtight jars. After that the texture may soften further. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months — just thaw in the fridge the night before or warm gently in the microwave before eating.

FAQs

How long should I soak the oats?

Ideally, soak them overnight (8 hours or more) so the oats fully absorb the liquid and soften. If in a hurry, at least 4‑6 hours will work, though the texture may be slightly firmer.

Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

You could, but rolled oats hold their texture better in overnight soaking. Quick oats may become too soft or mushy.

Is this recipe vegan?

With a few swaps yes — use plant‑based milk and plant‑based yoghurt, and replace maple syrup or agave for sweetening. Also use vegan white chocolate chips if you include the topping.

Can I omit the topping entirely?

Yes. The topping is optional. You’ll still get delicious carrot‑cake flavour without it. Simply mix the base overnight oats and skip the white chocolate‑yoghurt layer.

Can I make more servings ahead?

Absolutely. You can double or triple the ingredients and store in a large bowl, then spoon into jars when ready to eat. Just divide the final mixture into individual jars before refrigerating.

What is the best consistency?

The oats should be creamy and thick, but spoonable. If too thick in the morning, stir in a splash more milk. If too thin, reduce the milk next time or add a little more yoghurt.

Can I eat these warm?

Yes. Although overnight oats are typically eaten cold, you can warm your jar in the microwave for 30‑60 seconds if you prefer a warm breakfast.

Are these suitable for meal‑prep?

Yes — they’re excellent for meal‑prep. Make several jars ahead and keep them in the fridge for convenient breakfasts for 2‑3 days.

Can I add protein powder or extra protein?

Yes — you can stir in a scoop of your preferred protein powder (vanilla or unflavoured) into the yoghurt/milk mixture. Alternatively, use a high‑protein yoghurt to boost protein.

What is a good topping besides the white‑chocolate yoghurt?

Great alternatives include: a dollop of plain or vanilla yoghurt, a sprinkle of extra chopped nuts & shredded coconut, a drizzle of nut butter (almond or cashew), fresh carrot ribbons, or a few fresh fruit slices (banana, pineapple).

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a make‑ahead breakfast that feels indulgent yet remains wholesome, this Carrot Cake Overnight Oats recipe offers the perfect balance. With minimal prep, versatile swaps for dietary preferences, and delicious carrot‑cake flavour in every bite, it’s a smart addition to your breakfast rotation. Give it a try, adjust to your liking, and enjoy a cozy, satisfying start to your morning.