Name: French Toast Overnight Oatmeal Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: PT-487108H42M7S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Rolled Oats: 1/2 cup Milk: 1/2 cup Pitted Date: 1, finely chopped Vanilla Extract: 1/2 tsp Cinnamon: 1/2 tsp Chia Seeds: 1 tsp Vanilla-Flavored Yogurt: 1/4 cup (optional) Salt: pinch Maple Syrup: for topping

Jump to Recipe

French Toast Overnight Oatmeal brings together the magic of a classic breakfast favorite and the ease of overnight oats, creating a comforting meal that practically makes itself. Imagine diving into creamy oats laced with cinnamon and vanilla, all sweetened with maple syrup and a hint of date. With a prep that takes only five minutes the night before and a flavor payoff that’s pure morning joy, this dish will easily become your new breakfast ritual. Whether rushed or relaxed, you’ll find French Toast Overnight Oatmeal packs the taste of nostalgia into every spoonful.

French Toast Overnight Oatmeal Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of French Toast Overnight Oatmeal lies in its simplicity; every component adds something special—be it texture, richness, or that signature cinnamon warmth. Select quality ingredients, and you’ll be delighted by the flavor upgrade.

Rolled oats: For that hearty, satisfying base; I love using Country Choice Organic oats for great texture that holds up overnight.
Milk of your choice: Adds creaminess and helps the oats soak up all those delicious flavors—dairy or plant-based works beautifully.
Pitted date, chopped finely: Naturally sweetens the oats, giving each bite chewy bursts of caramel-like depth.
Vanilla extract: This provides that warm, bakery-style aroma so crucial to capturing the essence of French toast.
Cinnamon: The star spice! Cinnamon makes each spoonful taste like your favorite French toast breakfast.
Chia seeds: They help thicken the mixture and add a nutritional bonus (plus a fun little bite).
Vanilla-flavored yogurt (optional): Almond, dairy, or coconut yogurt brings a creamy tang that layers beautifully with the oatmeal, but feel free to skip or substitute based on preference.
Pinch of salt: Don’t skip this—salt lifts all the sweet flavors and adds real depth.
Maple syrup for topping: The final drizzle gives the dish its classic, sweet crown and that true French toast finish.

How to Make French Toast Overnight Oatmeal

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Start by assembling every ingredient on your kitchen counter—this recipe goes fast, so having everything ready means you’ll be done in just a few minutes. Measuring ahead of time also helps guarantee the perfect balance of flavor in your batch of French Toast Overnight Oatmeal.

Step 2: Combine Everything in a Jar

Grab a mason jar or small container with a tight lid. Add the rolled oats, your choice of milk, chopped date, vanilla, cinnamon, chia seeds, yogurt (if using), and a pinch of salt. If you’re feeling creative, now’s the time to toss in extra goodies: shredded coconut, dried fruit, chopped nuts, or sunflower seeds all make lovely add-ins.

Step 3: Shake It Up

Seal the lid tightly and give the jar a vigorous shake (or stir everything together really well). This simple step ensures the chia seeds, yogurt, and spices mingle with the oats, creating an even, flavorful base. It’s fun—almost like making a breakfast cocktail!

Step 4: Chill Overnight

Place the jar in your fridge overnight (or at least four hours). This is when the magic happens: oats absorb the liquid, chia seeds work their thickening magic, and that beautiful French Toast Overnight Oatmeal flavor develops fully.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

In the morning, give your oats a quick stir. You can enjoy them cold (for a grab-and-go breakfast), but warming them up in the microwave for a minute or so really brings out that custardy French toast vibe. Don’t forget the maple syrup drizzle just before serving—it’s pure perfection.

How to Serve French Toast Overnight Oatmeal

Garnishes

When it comes to garnishing your French Toast Overnight Oatmeal, think classic breakfast toppings: a generous drizzle of maple syrup, dusting of cinnamon, and a few slices of fresh banana or berries add a burst of color and freshness. For crunch, toss on a handful of toasted nuts or a sprinkle of granola.

Side Dishes

Pair your bowl with a side of fresh seasonal fruit, a cup of hot coffee, or even a tangy orange juice for a well-rounded breakfast spread. If you’re hosting brunch, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a smoothie to keep things hearty and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Layer French Toast Overnight Oatmeal in individual glass jars for a cute mason jar breakfast-on-the-go, or serve in wide bowls with artistic swirls of yogurt and maple syrup. Try a toppings bar at brunch so everyone can customize their own bowl with fruit, nuts, and more.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have extra French Toast Overnight Oatmeal, keep it refrigerated in an airtight jar or container. It stays delicious for up to three days, making breakfast throughout the week a total breeze.

Freezing

While you technically can freeze overnight oats, the texture does change a bit—oats get softer and some separation may occur. For best results, make only as much as you’ll eat within a few days. If you do freeze, thaw overnight in the fridge and give it a good stir before serving.

Reheating

For that cozy, warm breakfast feel, simply microwave your refrigerated oats for about a minute, stirring halfway through. Add a splash of extra milk if it seems a bit thick, then pile on your favorite toppings before digging in.

FAQs

Can I use steel-cut oats for French Toast Overnight Oatmeal?

Steel-cut oats stay chewier and need a much longer soaking time, but if you like a heartier texture, go ahead and try them—just add extra milk and soak for at least 12 hours.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just make sure you’re using certified gluten-free oats to keep your French Toast Overnight Oatmeal completely gluten-free.

Will it work without yogurt?

Absolutely. The yogurt simply adds a creamier texture and extra tang, but you can leave it out or use a non-dairy alternative with delicious results.

Can I double or triple the recipe for meal prep?

Definitely! Feel free to scale up all the ingredients and mix them in a larger container, then portion into small jars for breakfasts all week.

Can I add protein powder?

Yes—you can stir in a scoop of your favorite unflavored or vanilla protein powder to make this French Toast Overnight Oatmeal an even more satisfying start to your day. Add a bit more milk if it thickens up too much.

Final Thoughts

If you love breakfasts that combine comfort, flavor, and unbeatable convenience, you owe it to yourself to try French Toast Overnight Oatmeal. It tastes like morning magic in a bowl and makes waking up just a little bit sweeter. Go ahead—rustle up a batch tonight and wake up to pure breakfast joy!

French Toast Overnight Oatmeal Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 20 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: Overnight (minimum few hours)
Yield: 1 serving
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A delightful and easy recipe for French Toast Overnight Oatmeal that can be prepared the night before for a delicious and nourishing breakfast in the morning.

Ingredients

Rolled Oats:

1/2 cup

Milk:

1/2 cup

Pitted Date:

1, finely chopped

Vanilla Extract:

1/2 tsp

Cinnamon: