If you love the warm, cozy flavors of carrot cake but don’t have time to bake in the morning, this carrot cake overnight oats recipe is your new go-to breakfast. It’s perfect for busy mornings when you want something nutritious, filling, and made ahead of time.
Packed with grated carrots, warming spices, and a touch of sweetness, these oats taste like dessert while being incredibly healthy. Serve them cold right out of the fridge, or warm them up for a comforting twist.
Add a dollop of Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of chopped walnuts, or a drizzle of maple syrup for extra indulgence.
Carrot Cake Overnight Oats
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grater for the carrots
- Two jars or containers with lids mason jars or Tupperware work great
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk or milk of choice
- 1/2 cup grated carrot about 1 medium carrot
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or plant-based alternative
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/8 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tbsp chopped walnuts optional, for topping
- 1 tbsp raisins optional
Instructions
- Grate the Carrot: Start by peeling and finely grating the carrot. Set aside.Mix the Base: In a medium mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, almond milk, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, chia seeds, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Add Spices & Carrot: Stir in the cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and grated carrot until evenly combined.Optional Add-ins: Fold in raisins if using.Divide & Store: Spoon the mixture evenly into two jars or containers. Seal with lids.
- Chill Overnight: Place in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours or overnight.Serve: In the morning, give it a stir, top with walnuts, and enjoy cold or microwave for 30–60 seconds if you prefer it warm.
Video
Notes
- Texture Preferences: If you prefer a thicker consistency, reduce the almond milk slightly or add extra chia seeds.
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the maple syrup to taste or swap for honey or a sugar-free alternative.
- Make It Vegan: Use plant-based yogurt instead of Greek yogurt.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a double batch to last for several mornings!
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 315 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 39 g |
| Protein | 11 g |
| Fat | 13 g |
| Serving Size | ~250 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4 g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 4.5 g |
| Trans Fat | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 5 mg |
| Sodium | 120 mg |
| Potassium | 420 mg |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Sugar | 12 g |
| Vitamin A | 8100 IU |
| Vitamin C | 3 mg |
| Calcium | 180 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
How About Alternative Ingredients?
One of the best things about overnight oats is how easily they can be customized to fit dietary needs, flavor preferences, or what’s already in your pantry.
If you’re avoiding dairy, swap the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt like coconut, almond, or soy.
It keeps the creaminess while making the dish entirely vegan. Similarly, instead of almond milk, you can use oat milk, coconut milk, or any milk you prefer.
Each variety brings its own subtle flavor twist—coconut milk, for example, adds a tropical undertone that pairs beautifully with the carrot and spices.
You can also play around with the sweetener and mix-ins. Maple syrup can be replaced with honey, agave nectar, date syrup, or even a mashed ripe banana for natural sweetness. Not a fan of raisins or walnuts? You should try:
- Chopped pecans
- Shredded coconut
- Sunflower seeds
- Dried cranberries
To boost the protein content, stir in a scoop of your favorite protein powder or a spoonful of nut butter like almond or cashew. And for those who enjoy a little extra spice, a dash of allspice or clove can deepen the warm, carrot cake flavor even more.
Summary
Carrot cake overnight oats offer a practical, delicious way to bring familiar flavors into a healthy breakfast routine. With minimal prep and maximum flexibility, they suit a variety of tastes and dietary needs.
Simple swaps allow for endless variations, making it easy to keep things interesting without much extra effort. Keep a few base ingredients on hand, and you’ll always have a go-to option ready for busy mornings.
