Maple and brown sugar together is such a sweet decadent flavor combination and it works so well in this Maple Brown Sugar overnight oats recipe. It’s a little indulgence to start your day.
If you’re a big fan of overnight oatmeal recipes, try my Carrot Cake Overnight Oats, Biscoff overnight oats or Tiramisu overnight oats. They’re all delicious and so easy to throw together.
Why this recipe is great?
- Throw this recipe together in less than 10 minutes
- You only need 5 simple ingredients for the easy overnight oats recipe
- It’s a great way to start the day, it’s like having a decadent dessert
- Great make ahead breakfast for busy mornings
Ingredients notes
Full list of ingredients and amounts for this Maple brown sugar overnight oats recipe is in the recipe card below.
Rolled Oats – also called old-fashioned oats is best, instant or steel cut oats don’t work the same
Chia Seeds – black or white chia seeds are fine
Brown sugar – for that caramel flavor
Milk – I use plant based milk but any type of milk will work – I used unsweetened almond milk
Maple syrup– to add dept and even more sweetness – use pure maple syrup
Kitchen equipment needed
- Mason jar – this recipe makes 2, so you can use 2 small jars or glasses (approx 250ml-300ml, 8-10 oz)
- Large bowl – for mixing the oats before pouring into jars
How to make brown sugar oatmeal
In a bowl, start with the dry ingredients, mix together the rolled oats, chia seeds and brown sugar. Add in the milk and maple syrup. Mix well until the oats and seeds are coated.
Pour into an airtight container or 2 mason jars or bowls (approx. 250-300ml / 8 – 10oz) – and store in the fridge overnight or for a minimum of 4 hours.
Remove the next day, top oats with a little extra maple syrup and enjoy.
Expert tips for making brown sugar oatmeal
- Add additional milk to loosen the oats if they’ve thickened too much
- Top with additional maple syrup for added decoration and flavor
- You can use any plant milk whether it be soy milk, oat milk, almond milk, coconut milk, rice milk or any milk of choice.
- Sweetener – if you prefer not to use maple syrup you can use any sugar or sweetener of choice eg. honey, agave syrup or even sugars like coconut sugar, stevia or xylitol
Add in ideas
- Hemp seeds / hemp hearts – for added nutrition
- Protein powder – will add more protein and keep you fuller
- Nuts – pecans would work so well here
- Flax seeds
- Peanut butter or almond butter
- Plain Greek yogurt or sweetened plain yogurt or plant-based yogurt
- Unsweetened shredded coconut
- Dark chocolate chips – add in some chocolate flavor
- Fresh fruit – to freshen it up, banana slices would be great
If you love brown sugar you could also try these Brown Sugar Chocolate Chip Cookies from Boston Girl Bakes. You could also substitute the maple syrup in this recipe for a Caramel Syrup that would work really well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these brown sugar oats vegan?
If you stick to a plant based milk, and plant based toppings, then yes, this will be vegan.
Are these overnight oats gluten free?
Yes, if using gluten-free oats. Oats can sometimes contain gluten.
Can I warm up the overnight oats?
Yes, if it’s colder where you are, you can place this in the microwave for 15-30 seconds to take the chill out of it.
Can I use quick oats?
Yes, you can instant oats or quick oats, but it’s best eaten within 1-2 days of making as they can turn mushy.
How do I store overnight oats?
Store in the fridge covered overnight. Can stay in the fridge for 3-4 days before it needs to be eaten. Top it with your toppings before eating as this can get soft or mushy if staying in the fridge.
Is this a healthy breakfast?
Depends on your definition of healthy, it is a fair bit of added sugar but it is delicious and filling and a good option to change up your breakfasts for something fun. Kid’s will enjoy this one too.
Maple Brown Sugar Overnight Oats
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 ½ tbsp brown sugar
- 1 ¼ cup milk I used almond
- 1½ tbsp maple syrup
Instructions
- Place oats, chia seeds and brown sugar in a bowl. Combine with a spoon or whisk until everything is mixed in.
- Add in the milk and maple syrup and mix thoroughly.
- Pour into 2 glasses or jars (approximately 1 cup/250ml in size).
- Place in the fridge covered for 4 or more hours. Ideally overnight.
- Top the overnight oats with additional maple syrup if using.