Gingerbread Overnight Oats: A Festive, Healthy Breakfast

Overnight oats are one of my favorite ways to enjoy a no-fuss, nutritious breakfast, and this holiday twist—Gingerbread Overnight Oats—might just be my coziest creation yet. With the warm flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses, this recipe captures the spirit of the season in every creamy, satisfying bite.

If you loved my Pumpkin Pie Overnight Oats, then you’re going to adore this festive variation. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and perfect for busy mornings when you want something delicious to grab and go.

Why Gingerbread Overnight Oats?

The holidays are a busy time, and breakfast often takes a backseat. That’s where overnight oats come in—they’re the ultimate make-ahead meal, saving you time while providing a healthy start to your day. These Gingerbread Overnight Oats deliver all the comforting flavors of a classic gingerbread cookie but in a nourishing, guilt-free form.

They’re gluten-free, easily customizable for vegan or high-protein diets, and loaded with ingredients like oats and chia seeds to keep you full and fueled. 

Ingredients

• Oats: ½ cup rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)
• Unflavored Protein Powder: 1 scoop; I like Orgain
• Chia Seeds: 1 tablespoon (for a creamy texture and added fiber)
• Molasses: 1 tablespoon (the key to that deep gingerbread flavor)
• Almond Milk: ¾ cup (or your favorite dairy-free alternative)
• Maple Syrup: 1 tablespoon (or adjust for sweetness)
• Vanilla Extract: ½ teaspoon
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ginger
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

Optional Toppings:

• Granola, pecans, or walnuts for crunch
• A dollop of Greek yogurt or coconut whipped cream
• Fresh fruit like bananas or pomegranate seeds

Instructions

Combine Ingredients

In a mason jar or small bowl, mix the oats, chia seeds, molasses, almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and spices. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly combined.

Chill Overnight

Cover the jar or bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight. This allows the oats to absorb the liquid and become creamy and tender.

Top and Serve

In the morning, give the oats a good stir and add your favorite toppings. Enjoy straight from the jar or transfer to a bowl for a cozy, sit-down breakfast.

Why Molasses?

Molasses is the secret ingredient that gives these oats their signature gingerbread flavor. It’s rich in iron and other minerals, making it a nutrient-dense sweetener option that complements the warming spices perfectly. Combined with cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, it creates a flavor profile that’s comforting and distinctly festive.

If you’re as big a fan of molasses as I am, you’ll also love my Gluten-Free Gingerbread Cookies, a classic holiday treat with a chewy, spiced twist.

Health Benefits of Gingerbread Overnight Oats

Sustained Energy: Oats and chia seeds are loaded with fiber, which helps stabilize blood sugar and keeps you full for longer.

Rich in Antioxidants: The spices in this recipe—cinnamon, ginger, and cloves—are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Gut-Friendly: Chia seeds and molasses support digestive health, making this recipe as nourishing as it is delicious.

Customize Your Oats

These Gingerbread Overnight Oats are endlessly versatile. Here are some ways to make them your own:

For More Protein: Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder or mix in a dollop of almond butter before serving.

Make It Vegan: Use maple syrup and plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) to keep the recipe entirely dairy-free.

Add Festive Toppings: Try crushed gingerbread cookies, a sprinkle of granola, or candied pecans for a holiday-inspired crunch.

Pairing Suggestions

These oats are a breakfast all-star on their own, but they pair beautifully with other holiday-inspired recipes for a festive brunch spread. Here are a few ideas:

Breakfast Quiche: A savory companion for a balanced holiday brunch.

Cranberry Pistachio Energy Bites: Another grab-and-go option for the holiday season.

Tips for Success

Use Rolled Oats: Quick oats can become mushy, and steel-cut oats don’t soften enough for this recipe. Rolled oats strike the perfect balance.

Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your taste preferences, you can increase or decrease the amount of maple syrup.

Meal Prep Magic: Multiply the ingredients to make several servings at once—perfect for busy holiday mornings!

Storage

Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezer: Overnight oats can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before eating.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Gingerbread Overnight Oats are a celebration of the holiday season, wrapped in a healthy, convenient breakfast. The warm spices evoke the coziness of a gingerbread cookie, but the wholesome ingredients make it a guilt-free way to start your day.

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