Crème Brûlée Overnight Oats bring a delicious twist to your morning routine! With creamy oats, vanilla, and a touch of caramelized sugar on top, it’s like dessert for breakfast!
Trust me, waking up to these oats is a treat. You can prepare them the night before, and the sweet topping makes each bite feel fancy without any fuss. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats: These are perfect for overnight oats because they absorb liquid well. If you’re short on time, you could use quick oats, but keep in mind they might be softer.
Milk: You can stick with dairy milk for a rich flavor or use almond, oat, or coconut milk for a dairy-free option. I love using almond milk as it adds a nice hint of nuttiness!
Greek Yogurt: It adds creaminess and protein. If you’re avoiding dairy, try a coconut yogurt, or skip it altogether. The oats will still be delicious without it!
Vanilla Extract: This ingredient gives that traditional crème brûlée flavor. Make sure it’s pure vanilla for the best taste. I often double the amount for extra flavor!
Maple Syrup or Honey: Both sweeteners work well. You may swap it for agave or stevia if you’re looking for lower-glycemic options. I personally prefer maple syrup for its deep flavor.
How Can I Get That Perfect Caramelized Sugar Topping?
The caramelized sugar layer is essential for mimicking the traditional crème brûlée texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Ensure the sugar is evenly spread over the refrigerated oats before caramelizing.
- If using a kitchen torch, hold it a few inches above the sugar and move it slowly in a circular motion.
- For broiling, position an oven rack close to the heating element and keep a close eye on it, as sugar can turn from perfect to burnt quickly!
- Let the caramel sit for about a minute to harden before serving, creating that satisfying crack when you dig in.
With these tips, your Crème Brûlée Overnight Oats will be just as delightful as the dessert! Enjoy your breakfast treat!
Crème Brûlée Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
- Pinch of salt
For the Caramelized Topping:
- 1-2 tbsp granulated sugar
- Optional: pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 6 hours, or overnight, to chill in the fridge. This means you can get it ready before bed and enjoy a delicious breakfast the next morning with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a small bowl or jar, add the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt (if you’re using it), vanilla extract, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together well so that all the ingredients are combined evenly.
2. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover the bowl or jar with a lid or some plastic wrap to keep everything fresh. Place it in the fridge and let the oats soak for at least 6 hours or overnight. This will make them soft and creamy by morning!
3. Prepare to Serve:
When you’re ready to enjoy, take the oats out of the fridge. Give them a good stir to make sure everything is evenly mixed and creamy.
4. Add the Sugar for Caramelizing:
Sprinkle the granulated sugar evenly over the top of the oats. This is what will create the beautiful brûlée topping!
5. Caramelize the Sugar:
Using a kitchen torch, carefully caramelize the sugar until it melts and turns a deep golden brown. If you don’t have a torch, you can put the oats under a broiler for just a minute, but watch it closely to prevent burning!
6. Let It Set:
Allow the caramelized sugar to cool and harden for about a minute. This will create that satisfying crunch when you dig in!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
If you like, you can add fresh berries or a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for added flavor. Dig in and enjoy your sweet and creamy Crème Brûlée Overnight Oats!
These oats are a delightful breakfast that feels like a dessert. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Steel-Cut Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
You can, but keep in mind that steel-cut oats have a different texture and require a longer soaking time. To use them, soak overnight as you would with rolled oats but consider cooking them briefly before mixing in the other ingredients to ensure they soften properly.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Easy! Just substitute dairy milk with your choice of plant-based milk, like almond, oat, or coconut milk. You can also use a dairy-free yogurt in place of Greek yogurt for a creamy texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can enjoy them cold or reheat them gently in the microwave before caramelizing the topping.
Can I Sweeten It More or Less?
Absolutely, you can adjust the sweetener to your taste! Start with less and add more if you prefer it sweeter. You could also experiment with other sweeteners like agave syrup or a sugar substitute for lower-glycemic options.
