Carrot Cake Overnight Oats

Carrot cake overnight oats are healthy, vegan, gluten-free, and made with no refined sugar! This quick and easy meal prep breakfast idea is great for busy families. They’re made with pantry staples like rolled oats, yogurt, chia seeds, shredded carrots, raisins, and maple syrup. These dessert oats are reminiscent of classic carrot cake!

By now, you probably already know I’m a big fan of dessert for breakfast. Try my Cookie Dough Overnight Oats and Healthy Funfetti Pancakes, and you’ll instantly understand why. If you have a sweet tooth like me, these carrot cake overnight oats must be next up on your list!

This dessert oatmeal can, of course, be enjoyed for both breakfast and dessert. It has the sweet and creamy flavor of carrot cake, but it’s loaded with nutrition in every bite. The simple recipe is made with healthy ingredients like rolled oats, chia seeds, yogurt, and shredded carrots.

Best part? It’s a quick make-ahead breakfast, so the oats are instantly ready first thing in the morning. From start to finish, it only takes about 5 minutes to make at night. That’s right – this is a life changing breakfast for anyone on a busy schedule.

Ingredients in carrot cake overnight oats

• Oats: Use rolled oats for overnight oatmeal. They are great for soaking because they’re steamed and flattened. Don’t use steel cut or instant oats.
• Milk: Use any type of milk, whether it’s non-dairy or dairy. I suggest oat milk or almond milk.
• Yogurt: I highly recommend making these carrot cake overnight oats with yogurt. You can use non-dairy or dairy yogurt, and a vanilla flavor will taste best. If you want to omit this ingredient altogether, that’s ok.
• Carrot: Use store bought shredded carrots or simply shred carrots yourself at home. They are loaded with nutrients, like vitamin A and vitamin K.
• Maple syrup: We’ll use maple syrup to keep the oatmeal refined sugar-free. Alternatively, you can use honey or agave nectar. If you don’t mind some refined sugar, brown sugar tastes delicious!
• Raisins: Raisins are often used in carrot cake, so we’ll add a spoonful to these oats. You can use regular raisins or golden raisins.
• Chia seeds: These seeds expand while soaking, which helps give the oats a creamy texture. They’re also high fiber and a good source of omega-3 fatty acids.
• Cinnamon: This anti-inflammatory spice is a key ingredient in carrot cake, so of course we’re using it for this recipe.
• Vanilla extract: Add a dash of vanilla extract to make it taste like dessert.
• Salt: Just a pinch of salt is needed to enhance the other ingredients.

How to make overnight oats with carrots

For the full ingredient measurements and step-by-step instructions, scroll down to view the recipe card at the bottom of the page.

First, add rolled oats, milk, yogurt, shredded carrot, maple syrup, raisins, chia seeds, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt to a jar. Mix the ingredients together, then seal with a lid.

Next, store the oats in the refrigerator overnight or at least 4 hours.

The next morning (or whenever you are ready to eat), remove the lid and stir the oats. If desired, add a splash of milk to thin the consistency.

Enjoy the oats directly out of the jar or transfer them to a bowl. Add any toppings of your choosing, like almond butter, granola, and raisins. Enjoy!

Recipe variations for carrot cake overnight oats with yogurt

Easily customize these dessert oats with your choice of mix-ins and toppings. Try any of the ideas below.

• Medjool dates: If you don’t like raisins, try chopped medjool dates instead.
• Nut butter: Add a boost of healthy fats with a spoonful of nut butter. Choose almond butter, cashew butter, or peanut butter. If you need a nut-free option, use sunflower seed butter or tahini instead.
• Protein powder: If you want to consume a high protein breakfast, mix a scoop of protein powder into the oats. I recommend a vanilla flavor for this recipe.
• Cocoa powder: If you love chocolate, add a tablespoon of cocoa powder or cacao power.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Are overnight oats good for weight loss?

Yes, oats can be included in a healthy weight loss journey. They are low calorie and high fiber, which helps keep you full for hours. However, remember it’s important to consider the other foods you’re consuming and lifestyle factors.

Are overnight oats healthier than oatmeal?

Oftentimes, they are equally healthy. The answer depends on the other ingredients in the recipe. These carrot cake overnight oats are healthy, but my regular oatmeal recipes are too.

Is overnight oats better with milk or yogurt?

I suggest using both milk and yogurt every time you make overnight oatmeal. These two ingredients help create a super creamy consistency.

How to store carrot cake overnight oatmeal

It is best to enjoy carrot cake overnight oats within 24 hours. However, you can keep them stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.Tightly seal them in a jar with a lid.

If you try these Carrot Cake Overnight Oats, please let me know your thoughts by leaving a rating and comment below! Ready for more? Subscribe to my newsletter or follow along on Instagram and YouTube!

Print

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I personally use, trust, and love!