These fluffy, blended chai overnight oats give all the cozy vibes of your favorite latte…minus the trek to the coffee shop. With only 5 minutes of hands-on prep, this healthy dairy-free, gluten-free breakfast couldn’t be easier!
Ingredients
- Unsweetened soy milk: I prefer soy milk, as it has a creamier, more luxurious texture than other types of plant-based milk. However, almond milk or oat milk are fine substitutes.
- Old-fashioned (rolled) oats: Oats are a fantastic source of fiber, which can help lower cholesterol levels and promote heart health. Be sure to use rolled oats or “quick” oats in this recipe. Avoid steel-cut oats, which will not develop the same soft texture.
- Chia seeds: Chia seeds soften as they soak in liquid, helping the overnight oats achieve the ideal pudding-like texture. They are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation and support heart health.
- Ground flaxseed: Flaxseeds also contribute to the pudding-like consistency of the overnight oats. They are high in omega-3 fatty acids and lignans, which have antioxidant properties and promote heart health.
- Maple syrup: A natural sweetener.
- Vanilla extract: Adds balance and sweetness. Vanilla also has antioxidant properties.
- Ground cinnamon: Cinnamon adds warmth and its well-known flavor, along with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Ground cardamom: Cardamom has a complex, assertive flavor profile. If you are not used to this spice, you may want to use a bit less than what the recipe calls for, as it can be an acquired taste and a little goes a long way.
- Ground ginger: Ginger helps support the immune system and adds a warm flavor, slightly spicy flavor.
- Ground cloves: Another warming spice. In light of its intense flavor, only a small amount is needed. Cloves are known for their antibacterial properties, which help reduce inflammation.
- Ground nutmeg: A warming spice with slightly earthy undertones. Nutmeg also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Ground allspice: A complex spice that has notes of a variety of other spices. It has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
- Step 1: Add all ingredients to a blender (for blended oats with a fluffier, smoother consistency) or a large bowl (for overnight oats with more texture).
- Step 2: Pulse in the blender until the mixture is mostly smooth and creamy (or, if mixing in a bowl, stir until well-combined).
- Step 3: Pour the mixture into the storage container(s) of choice. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Step 4: In the morning, remove the cover(s) and add any desired toppings, such as a spoonful of nondairy yogurt, a pinch of coconut sugar, and/or a pinch of ground cinnamon. Enjoy chilled.
Equipment
- Large bowl or blender
- Spoon
- Storage containers (1 medium-sized or 2 small)
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Storage
Store any leftovers in the fridge and enjoy within 3 to 4 days.
FAQ
What is chai?
Chai is a spiced tea originating in India. It is often made with a blend of warming spices, including ginger, cinnamon, and cardamom.
What kind of oats should I use for overnight oats?
I recommend using old-fashioned oats, also called “rolled” oats. “Quick” oats will work as a fine substitute, especially if you are blending the oats. Do not use steel-cut oats, as they have a tougher consistency and will not soften enough overnight.
Are overnight oats healthy?
Overnight oats are quite healthy, especially when they are low in added sugar and use healthy toppings. Overnight oats are high in fiber and protein, which provide a stable source of energy and help keep you feeling full.
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Chai Overnight Oats
These fluffy, blended chai overnight oats give all the cozy vibes of your favorite latte…minus the trek to the coffee shop. With only 5 minutes of hands-on prep, this healthy dairy-free, gluten-free breakfast couldn’t be easier!
Equipment
- large bowl or blender
- spoon
- storage containers (1 medium-sized or 2 small)
- measuring cups
- measuring spoons
Ingredients
Overnight oats ingredients
- 1¼ cup unsweetened soy milk (or other nondairy milk)
- 1 cup old-fashioned (rolled) oats
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
- 2½ teaspoons maple syrup (or 1 tablespoon if you prefer it sweeter)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chai spice blend ingredients
- ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
- ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ⅛ teaspoon ground allspice
Optional toppings
- plain or vanilla nondairy yogurt
- pinch of coconut sugar
- pinch of ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Add the overnight oats ingredients and chai spice blend ingredients to a blender (for blended oats with a fluffier, smoother consistency) or a large bowl (for overnight oats with more texture).
- Pulse the mixture in the blender until it is mostly smooth and creamy (or, if mixing in a bowl, stir until well-combined).
- Pour the mixture into your storage container(s) of choice. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- In the morning, remove the cover(s) and add any desired toppings. I like to add a spoonful of nondairy yogurt, a pinch of coconut sugar, and a pinch of ground cinnamon. Chai overnight oats are best enjoyed slightly chilled.
Notes
- Store leftovers in the fridge for 2 to 3 days.
