Nothing says “holiday comfort” quite like a jar of creamy overnight oats infused with warm Christmas flavors. From gingerbread and peppermint to cranberry and eggnog, these 12 Best Christmas Overnight Oats Recipes bring joy to your mornings with minimal effort.
Whether you’re entertaining family, rushing through last-minute shopping, or simply craving a cozy breakfast by the tree, overnight oats make mornings brighter, healthier, and stress-free. You just mix, chill, and wake up to festive perfection.

If you love wholesome yet indulgent make-ahead treats, try our Sugar-Free Banana Pudding — it’s another delicious way to enjoy dessert-like flavor in a healthy breakfast form.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

The Magic of Christmas Overnight Oats

Why Overnight Oats Are Perfect for the Holidays

The holiday season is magical but busy — which is why overnight oats are a true December lifesaver. They’re easy to prepare the night before and ready to enjoy first thing in the morning, no cooking required.

Each recipe in this Christmas collection captures the spirit of the season — rich, spiced, and comforting. From Gingerbread Cookie Overnight Oats to Peppermint Mocha Oats, these jars are filled with nostalgia and flavor. Plus, they’re completely customizable, so you can adjust sweetness, creaminess, and toppings to suit your taste.

Want to make your oats extra rich and nutty? Learn how to make Pistachio Nut Butter and drizzle it on top for a luxurious holiday finish.

Time-Saving Breakfasts for Busy December Mornings

Holiday mornings tend to start early — and between gift wrapping, baking, and entertaining, breakfast often gets overlooked. That’s where Christmas overnight oats come in. You can prep several jars in under ten minutes, refrigerate overnight, and have breakfast ready to go for days.

They travel well, too — perfect for work mornings or post-holiday workouts. Add a dollop of Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of granola, or a handful of festive toppings like chocolate chips or cranberries for a breakfast that feels special but takes zero effort.

If you’re a peanut butter lover, you’ll adore our Peanut Butter Chia Pudding — it’s another creamy, prep-ahead breakfast that’s perfect for busy mornings.

Nutritional Benefits of Overnight Oats During the Festive Season

Overnight oats don’t just taste like Christmas — they’re packed with nutrients, too. Oats are a powerhouse of fiber, protein, and complex carbs, which help you stay full and energized through long holiday days. Paired with milk, yogurt, and fruit, they make a balanced breakfast that feels indulgent but supports your health goals.

Spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg aren’t just for flavor; they help with digestion and add a natural antioxidant boost. According to Healthline’s guide to overnight oats, soaking oats improves their digestibility and keeps your blood sugar more stable — a great bonus during a season known for sweets and treats.

For a wholesome crunch, try adding homemade roasted pumpkin seeds to your overnight oats. They add texture, flavor, and a satisfying dose of healthy fats.

Essential Ingredients for Christmas Overnight Oats

Oats, Milks, and Yogurts — The Creamy Base

The perfect Christmas overnight oats begin with a balanced blend of oats, milk, and yogurt. Rolled oats (old-fashioned oats) deliver the best texture — creamy yet slightly chewy. Quick oats create a softer finish, while steel-cut oats can work if soaked longer.

Your choice of milk will define the flavor and richness. Almond milk adds a light nuttiness, oat milk enhances creaminess, and coconut milk infuses subtle sweetness. For the ultimate holiday twist, combine half almond milk and half eggnog — it’s like sipping Christmas in a spoon.

Greek yogurt (or coconut yogurt for dairy-free diets) adds creaminess and protein. Stir it in before chilling for a thick, luscious consistency that holds up overnight.

Holiday Flavors — Spices, Fruits, and Natural Sweeteners

Here’s where the real fun begins. The flavors that define Christmas — cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and ginger — can transform your oats into something that feels straight out of a bakery. Combine these with natural sweeteners like maple syrup, honey, or molasses for that warm, nostalgic sweetness.

Fruits like cranberries, apples, and cherries balance the richness and add color to your jar. To make things extra festive, top with crushed candy canes, toasted nuts, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup.

Pro tip: Add a spoonful of molasses and a pinch of ginger to your oats for a gingerbread cookie flavor that tastes like the holidays.

Creative Mix-Ins and Toppings to Make It Festive

Toppings are the finishing touch that take your oats from good to magical. Think whipped cream, granola, or cream cheese icing for cinnamon roll oats. Add dark chocolate chips and peppermint flakes for a dessert-like twist, or go wholesome with chia seeds, flaxseed, or protein powder for an energy boost.

Mix-ins like these let you enjoy festive flavors in a way that fits your routine — from indulgent weekend breakfasts to healthy weekday fuel. Once you’ve nailed the base, every variation is just a jar away.

Holiday Ingredient Substitution Guide

Ingredient	Substitute	Flavor Tip
Almond milk	Oat milk, soy milk, or coconut milk	Adjusts creaminess and flavor
Greek yogurt	Coconut yogurt or cashew yogurt	Ideal for dairy-free versions
Maple syrup	Honey or agave nectar	Use depending on sweetness preference
Molasses	Maple syrup + cinnamon	Softer gingerbread notes
Cranberries	Dried cherries or pomegranate seeds	Adds tart-sweet contrast

How to Make Overnight Oats the Right Way

The Perfect Oat-to-Liquid Ratio

The key to irresistibly creamy overnight oats is balance. Too much liquid and your oats will be runny; too little, and they’ll turn thick and dry. The sweet spot is 1:1 — equal parts oats and liquid — plus a spoonful of yogurt for creaminess. For most recipes, that means:

• ½ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup milk (or eggnog for a festive twist)
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt

This ratio creates a smooth, spoonable texture that thickens overnight. If you prefer thicker oats, reduce the liquid slightly; for a lighter version, add a splash of milk before serving.

When you’re prepping multiple jars, keep things simple: whisk your dry ingredients together in one bowl, pour in your milk and yogurt, mix, then divide evenly into jars. Add toppings only after chilling so they stay fresh and crunchy.

Step-by-Step Guide for Mixing and Storing

Making overnight oats is as easy as mix, chill, and serve — but a few small details make a big difference:

1. Start with a clean jar or container. Mason jars are perfect because they seal tightly and travel well.
2. Add oats and dry ingredients first. This prevents clumping and helps evenly distribute spices.
3. Pour in milk and yogurt, then stir well. Make sure all oats are coated.
4. Sweeten to taste. Maple syrup, honey, or molasses all work beautifully for Christmas flavors.
5. Seal and refrigerate for at least 6 hours (overnight is ideal).
6. Add toppings just before serving. Think fruit, nuts, whipped cream, or a drizzle of nut butter.

For the smoothest texture, use old-fashioned rolled oats and give the mixture a good stir in the morning before eating.

If you’re a flavor experimenter, this base can easily become Gingerbread, Peppermint Mocha, or Eggnog overnight oats — just swap in the holiday ingredients you love most.

Tips for Texture, Sweetness, and Flavor Balance

To make your Christmas overnight oats feel like a seasonal treat rather than an everyday breakfast, focus on layering textures and balancing sweetness. Here’s how:

• Add crunch: Sprinkle crushed candy canes, granola, or toasted pumpkin seeds just before serving.
• Keep it creamy: Stir in a little yogurt or milk before eating if it’s too thick.
• Sweeten smartly: Use pure maple syrup or honey instead of refined sugar — they complement warm spices beautifully.
• Infuse flavor: A few drops of vanilla or peppermint extract can make a big difference.
• Warm it up: Prefer your oats hot? Just microwave for 30–40 seconds for a cozy, pudding-like breakfast.

The beauty of overnight oats is flexibility. You can meal prep several flavors at once — like Gingerbread, Peppermint, and Apple Pie — to keep mornings exciting all week long.

Batch Prep and Storage Tips

These oats keep well for up to 4 days in the refrigerator, making them perfect for busy December weeks. Store them in airtight containers and stir before eating.
If you want to prep toppings in advance, keep them separate so they stay crisp. You can even freeze portions for up to a month — just thaw overnight in the fridge and stir in your favorite festive mix-ins before serving.

Want a pro tip? Label your jars by flavor and date so you know which ones to grab first — and always keep one or two on standby for those sleepy holiday mornings when you need a healthy, ready-to-eat breakfast.

Gingerbread Cookie Overnight Oats

Ingredients and Substitutions

Nothing captures the essence of Christmas like gingerbread. These Gingerbread Cookie Overnight Oats are spiced, cozy, and taste like dessert — only lighter and packed with nutrients.

Here’s what you’ll need (for 1 serving):

• ½ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup almond milk (or oat milk)
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt (or coconut yogurt for dairy-free)
• 1 tbsp molasses
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp cloves
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional, for sweetness)

Substitution Ideas:

• Swap molasses for maple syrup + extra cinnamon for a milder flavor.
• Use cashew milk or coconut milk for extra creaminess.
• Replace Greek yogurt with plant-based yogurt for a vegan version.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a mason jar or airtight container, mix rolled oats, spices, and molasses.
2. Add almond milk, Greek yogurt, vanilla, and maple syrup.
3. Stir well until all oats are coated and evenly mixed.
4. Seal and refrigerate overnight (at least 6 hours).
5. In the morning, give it a quick stir and top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or crushed gingerbread cookies.

Optional: Warm your oats slightly before serving for that freshly baked gingerbread aroma.

Why You’ll Love This Cozy Recipe

These Christmas overnight oats bring everything you love about the holidays — warmth, spice, and sweetness — in a nutritious and time-saving way. Molasses gives it that deep gingerbread flavor, while cinnamon and ginger make every bite taste like nostalgia.

They’re great for meal prep, too. Make a few jars at once, refrigerate them, and you’ve got breakfast ready for the week. Each spoonful is like a mini celebration — no oven, no mess, just Christmas comfort in a jar.

For a fun finishing touch, crumble a mini gingerbread man on top or drizzle with a little almond butter before serving.

Festive Chocolate & Peppermint Oats Collection

Chocolate Peppermint Overnight Oats — Peppermint Mocha Vibes

If you love the taste of a peppermint mocha but want something lighter for breakfast, these oats are your holiday dream come true. Creamy chocolate meets cool peppermint in a make-ahead meal that feels like dessert in a jar.

Ingredients (1 serving):

• ½ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup almond milk
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp cocoa powder
• ½ tsp peppermint extract
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
• Chocolate chips + crushed candy canes for garnish

Instructions:

1. Stir oats, cocoa powder, milk, yogurt, and peppermint extract together.
2. Add maple syrup to taste, mix well, and refrigerate overnight.
3. In the morning, top with chocolate chips and crushed candy canes for a frosty, festive finish.

Tip: If you prefer warm oats, microwave for 30 seconds before topping — it melts the chocolate perfectly.

Peppermint Mocha Overnight Oats — Coffee Lover’s Dream

For caffeine fans, this version takes the flavor up a notch with real brewed coffee. It’s rich, energizing, and every bite tastes like a cozy café moment.

Ingredients (1 serving):

• ½ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup brewed coffee (cooled)
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp cocoa powder
• ½ tsp peppermint extract
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a jar and stir thoroughly.
2. Refrigerate overnight.
3. Before serving, top with a few dark chocolate shavings and a hint of whipped cream if you’re feeling festive.

The result? Creamy, chocolatey, and perfectly balanced — a holiday breakfast that doubles as a treat.

Almond Joy Overnight Oats — Candy Bar in a Jar

Inspired by everyone’s favorite chocolate-coconut candy, this recipe delivers sweetness and crunch in every spoonful — with the bonus of fiber and protein.

Ingredients (1 serving):

• ½ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup almond milk
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp cocoa powder
• 1 tbsp shredded coconut
• 1 tbsp sliced almonds
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Combine oats, milk, yogurt, cocoa, and vanilla in a jar.
2. Add maple syrup and stir until smooth.
3. Chill overnight.
4. Before serving, garnish with coconut flakes and almonds for a crunchy finish.

This Christmas overnight oats recipe is pure holiday joy — rich, nutty, and satisfying. It’s the perfect grab-and-go breakfast when you’re craving something sweet but still want to stay balanced.

Classic Holiday Comforts in a Jar

Apple Pie Overnight Oats — A Taste of Warm Nostalgia

Few flavors say “home for the holidays” quite like apple pie. These Apple Pie Overnight Oats bring all that comfort without any baking — just fresh apples, cozy spices, and creamy oats.

Ingredients (1 serving):

• ½ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup unsweetened apple juice or almond milk
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt
• ½ apple, finely diced
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• ¼ tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey

Instructions:

1. Combine oats, milk, yogurt, apple, and spices in a jar.
2. Stir well, seal, and refrigerate overnight.
3. Top with granola, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of honey before serving.

Why you’ll love it: It’s like eating apple pie filling for breakfast — sweet, soft, and full of cinnamon warmth.

Pumpkin Pie Overnight Oats — Fall Flavors, Christmas Spirit

Pumpkin pie isn’t just for Thanksgiving anymore. This cozy version fits perfectly into your Christmas overnight oats rotation, bringing the creamy, spiced flavor of pumpkin pie straight to your spoon.

Ingredients (1 serving):

• ½ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup almond milk
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup pumpkin purée
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground ginger
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey

Instructions:

1. Stir all ingredients together in a mason jar.
2. Refrigerate overnight.
3. In the morning, top with crushed pecans or a dusting of cinnamon.

Pro tip: For a more indulgent version, replace half the milk with eggnog — it turns this recipe into pure Christmas bliss.

Eggnog Overnight Oats — Rich, Creamy, and Irresistible

This recipe takes the ultimate holiday drink and turns it into a healthy, satisfying breakfast. It’s thick, flavorful, and feels like dessert but keeps you full all morning.

Ingredients (1 serving):

• ½ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup eggnog
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• ¼ tsp cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a jar and stir well.
2. Chill overnight.
3. In the morning, top with a pinch of nutmeg or a small dollop of whipped cream.

Why it works: The eggnog provides natural sweetness and a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with oats. It’s festive, nostalgic, and wonderfully rich — everything a holiday breakfast should be.

Fruity Christmas Flavors

Cranberry Overnight Oats — Tart Meets Sweet

Cranberries are one of the most iconic holiday ingredients, and in overnight oats, they add the perfect tart-sweet contrast. This recipe is simple, festive, and full of flavor — a refreshing break from heavier holiday treats.

Ingredients (1 serving):

• ½ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup almond milk
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup dried or fresh cranberries
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Combine oats, milk, yogurt, cranberries, sweetener, and spices in a jar.
2. Mix well, seal, and refrigerate overnight.
3. Stir before serving, adding a splash of milk if it thickens too much.

Why you’ll love it: It’s tangy, creamy, and feels like Christmas in a bowl. The cranberries add a ruby-red pop that looks beautiful on your breakfast table.

Chocolate Cherry Overnight Oats — A Festive Dessert Twist

Chocolate and cherries are a match made in holiday heaven. These Christmas overnight oats bring the indulgence of a Black Forest cake in a balanced, nourishing way.

Ingredients (1 serving):

• ½ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup almond milk
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp cocoa powder
• ¼ cup chopped fresh or frozen cherries
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Mix oats, milk, yogurt, cocoa powder, and vanilla together.
2. Add cherries and sweetener, then stir well.
3. Refrigerate overnight.
4. Top with extra cherries and a few chocolate shavings before serving.

Pro tip: For extra richness, add a swirl of nut butter or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate on top.

Coconut Cranberry Overnight Oats — Tropical Winter Bliss

If you’re dreaming of a white (and slightly tropical) Christmas, this one’s for you. The coconut milk adds creamy richness, while tart cranberries bring that festive sparkle.

Ingredients (1 serving):

• ½ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup coconut milk
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup cranberries (fresh or dried)
• 1 tbsp shredded coconut
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a jar and stir well.
2. Chill overnight.
3. Before serving, top with more coconut and cranberries.

Why it’s special: It’s the best of both worlds — tropical creaminess meets winter tartness. Perfect for those who love unique, refreshing flavors with a festive edge.

Spiced & Cozy Blends

Vanilla Chai Overnight Oats — Chai Latte Comfort

If you’re the type who can’t get through winter without a steaming chai latte, this recipe will steal your heart. It combines the rich aroma of chai spices with the creamy comfort of oats — no barista required.

Ingredients (1 serving):

• ½ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup brewed chai tea (cooled)
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground ginger
• ¼ tsp cardamom
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey

Instructions:

1. Brew chai tea and let it cool to room temperature.
2. Combine oats, yogurt, vanilla, and spices in a jar.
3. Add chai tea and sweetener, stir well, and refrigerate overnight.
4. In the morning, top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or crushed pistachios for a touch of color and crunch.

Why it’s a favorite: These Christmas overnight oats capture the cozy spice blend of chai tea with a creamy texture that feels luxurious yet wholesome.

Festive Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats — Drizzled with Icing

Who doesn’t love waking up to the smell of cinnamon rolls on Christmas morning? This recipe brings that same comforting sweetness to your breakfast bowl — complete with a homemade icing drizzle.

Ingredients (1 serving):

• ½ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup almond milk
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey

For the Icing:

• 1 tbsp cream cheese
• 1 tsp powdered sugar
• 1–2 tsp milk (as needed for texture)

Instructions:

1. Mix oats, milk, yogurt, cinnamon, and sweetener in a jar.
2. Refrigerate overnight.
3. In the morning, whisk icing ingredients in a small bowl until smooth.
4. Drizzle icing over the oats before serving.

Why you’ll love it: It’s decadent but still nourishing — the cinnamon roll flavor without the sugar crash. The icing melts into the oats, creating a creamy, frosting-like texture that’s pure holiday comfort.

How to Batch Prep These Flavors for the Week

The best part of overnight oats is how easy they are to prepare in bulk. You can make Vanilla Chai and Cinnamon Roll versions side-by-side to keep things interesting all week long. Here’s how:

1. Mix your dry ingredients (oats and spices) in separate jars.
2. Add milk and yogurt just before refrigerating — this keeps the spices vibrant.
3. Refrigerate for 4–5 days maximum for the best flavor and texture.
4. Add toppings fresh (icing, nuts, or fruit) in the morning.

Batch prepping saves time, reduces food waste, and guarantees you’ll have a festive breakfast ready even on your busiest holiday mornings.

FAQs + Customization & Storage Tips

Christmas Overnight Oats – Helpful FAQs

Quick answers for creamy, cozy, and stress-free holiday breakfasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you warm up overnight oats before serving? Tip

Absolutely! While overnight oats are often served chilled, you can easily warm them up. Simply microwave your oats for 30–40 seconds, stir, and heat again until you reach your preferred temperature. Add a splash of milk if they’re too thick. This trick works especially well for cozy flavors like Gingerbread, Pumpkin Pie, or Cinnamon Roll.

How long can you keep overnight oats in the fridge? Storage

Overnight oats stay fresh for up to four days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you’re adding fruit like apples or bananas, it’s best to enjoy them within two days to maintain freshness. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to one month and thaw overnight in the fridge.

Can I make Christmas overnight oats dairy-free? Dairy-Free

Definitely. Swap Greek yogurt for plant-based yogurt (like coconut or almond), and use non-dairy milk such as almond, oat, or soy milk. These alternatives create a creamy base without sacrificing texture or flavor — plus, they pair perfectly with festive add-ins like spices and fruit.

Are overnight oats healthy for holiday mornings? Health

Yes! Overnight oats are naturally high in fiber, protein, and complex carbs, helping you stay full and energized throughout busy holiday mornings. With ingredients like oats, yogurt, milk, and fruit, these recipes strike a balance between indulgence and nutrition. Even the chocolate and peppermint versions can be part of a healthy meal when enjoyed mindfully.

What jars are best for storing overnight oats? Gear

Use 8–12 oz mason jars or any glass container with a tight-fitting lid. Wide-mouth jars make it easy to mix and layer ingredients, while smaller ones are great for grab-and-go breakfasts. For a festive touch, decorate your jars with ribbons or labels for holiday breakfast gifts.

Can I add protein powder to overnight oats? Protein

Of course! Adding a scoop of protein powder boosts nutrition and keeps you full longer. Choose vanilla or unflavored powder so it blends well with your spices and sweeteners. Adjust the liquid slightly — about 2 tablespoons more milk — to maintain creaminess.

Pro tip: For extra holiday flair, finish your jar with a pinch of cinnamon and a drizzle of maple syrup right before serving.

Customization & Storage Tips

One of the best things about these 12 Best Christmas Overnight Oats Recipes is their flexibility. You can easily customize each flavor to suit your cravings or dietary needs:

• Sweetness: Adjust honey or maple syrup to taste.
• Texture: Add more milk for a looser texture or extra yogurt for thickness.
• Toppings: Mix and match fruit, nuts, or holiday-inspired extras like crushed candy canes or gingerbread crumbs.
• Storage: Store in airtight jars for 4 days refrigerated, or freeze up to a month for easy make-ahead breakfasts.

These oats are perfect for busy mornings, cozy weekends, or even a festive brunch bar where guests can build their own Christmas-themed jar.

Conclusion: Wake Up to Holiday Cheer

Every jar of overnight oats in this collection is a small celebration of the season — quick, comforting, and full of flavor. Whether you’re drawn to the nostalgia of Apple Pie, the decadence of Peppermint Mocha, or the tropical notes of Coconut Cranberry, these Christmas overnight oats recipes make mornings merry and bright.

They’re simple to prepare, endlessly customizable, and perfect for sharing. Mix a few jars tonight, and tomorrow morning, you’ll wake up to the magic of Christmas in every spoonful.