Name: Citrus-Spiced Overnight Oats
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 8 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt; 1 cup unsweetened almond milk; 1 tablespoon citrus zest (orange or lemon); 1–2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (to taste); 1 tablespoon chia seeds; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

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A creamy, zesty breakfast that practically makes itself—Citrus-Spiced Overnight Oats are the perfect way to start the day with brightness and flavor. With a blend of hearty oats, tangy Greek yogurt, warm spices, and fresh citrus zest, this no-cook breakfast is both refreshing and satisfying. I just stir everything together at night, and by morning, I’ve got a cool, comforting meal that tastes like sunshine in a jar.

Citrus-Spiced Overnight Oats

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I prep everything in just 10 minutes—then the fridge does all the work overnight.
I love how the citrus zest brightens the whole bowl—it’s like a wake-up call in flavor form.
It’s endlessly customizable with whatever toppings I have on hand: berries, nuts, seeds, or coconut flakes.
I don’t need to heat a thing—just open the fridge and grab a jar.
It feels indulgent and creamy, but it’s packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

rolled oats
plain Greek yogurt
unsweetened almond milk
citrus zest (orange or lemon)
pure maple syrup
chia seeds
ground cinnamon

Directions

I start by combining the rolled oats and chia seeds in a bowl.
Then I stir in the Greek yogurt and almond milk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
I add the maple syrup and cinnamon, mixing until everything is well incorporated.
Next, I zest an orange or lemon directly into the bowl, stirring to distribute that citrusy brightness.
I divide the mixture into jars or containers, seal them, and refrigerate overnight.
In the morning, I serve them chilled, sometimes adding fruit or crunchy toppings for variety.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2 servings.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: None
Total time: 8 hours (overnight chilling)
Serving size: 1 jar (approx. 250g)
Calories per serving: 370

Variations

I sometimes use lemon zest for a tangier flavor or mix orange and lime zest together for a citrus medley.
To make it vegan, I swap the Greek yogurt for a plant-based option.
If I want extra protein, I mix in a scoop of protein powder.
I add sliced almonds, granola, or shredded coconut for more texture.
When I want it sweeter, I use honey instead of maple syrup—or add a dash of vanilla extract.

Storage/Reheating

I store my overnight oats in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. There’s no need to reheat; I just grab them cold and go. If I want a slightly warmer texture, I let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before eating.

FAQs

Can I make Citrus-Spiced Overnight Oats vegan?

Yes, I just substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and ensure the milk is non-dairy, like almond or oat milk.

How long do Citrus-Spiced Overnight Oats last in the fridge?

They stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored in sealed containers.

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

I don’t recommend it—steel-cut oats don’t soften well without cooking and will stay too chewy. Rolled oats are the best choice for this recipe.

Can I prep multiple servings at once?

Definitely. I just double or triple the recipe and portion it into jars for a grab-and-go breakfast all week.

What toppings go well with these oats?

I love topping mine with berries, citrus segments, chopped nuts, toasted coconut, or a sprinkle of granola for crunch.

Conclusion

Citrus-Spiced Overnight Oats are my go-to when I want something refreshing, wholesome, and ready when I wake up. I just mix, chill, and enjoy the creamy blend of oats, citrus, and spice. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a lazy weekend, this is one of those recipes that never lets me down. Every bite tastes like a little burst of sunshine, and honestly, it makes mornings feel just a bit more magical.