Gingerbread Cookie Overnight Oats Recipe
If you’re craving a cozy, flavorful breakfast that feels like a hug in a bowl, you have to try this Gingerbread Cookie Overnight Oats. Packed with warm spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, and sweetened naturally with molasses and maple syrup, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a luscious, creamy morning treat. It’s perfect for busy days when you want something nourishing, delicious, and ready to go right when you wake up. Plus, it’s a beautiful way to capture the festive spirit any time of the year with a dose of gingerbread magic in every spoonful.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Gingerbread Cookie Overnight Oats recipe is carefully chosen to bring balance, depth, and that irresistible holiday-inspired flavor. These simple pantry staples combine to create creamy texture, rich sweetness, and the perfect spicy warmth that makes this dish so special.
- Rolled oats: The base of the dish, providing hearty texture and fiber to keep you full.
- Almond milk (or milk of choice): Adds creaminess and keeps the oats smooth and easy to digest.
- Greek yogurt: Boosts creaminess and protein for a satisfying, thick consistency.
- Molasses: Gives a deep, robust sweetness and that signature gingerbread color.
- Ground ginger: Brings aromatic warmth and a gentle spice that defines gingerbread flavors.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds a sweet, woody touch that complements the ginger perfectly.
- Ground cloves: Provides a subtle, fragrant hint of spice that rounds out the profile.
- Vanilla extract: Lifts all the flavors and adds a smooth, comforting aroma.
- Maple syrup or honey (optional): A little extra sweetness to taste if you want it sweeter.
- Gingerbread man (for serving): Fun and festive garnish that enhances the theme and adds crunch.
How to Make Gingerbread Cookie Overnight Oats
Step 1: Combine the Oats and Liquid
Start by placing 1/2 cup of rolled oats into a mason jar or a bowl. Pour in 1/2 cup of almond milk (or your chosen milk), then add 1/4 cup of Greek yogurt. Stir everything gently to combine. This base is what softens overnight and creates that creamy, dreamy texture you’ll love.
Step 2: Add the Spices and Sweeteners
Mix in 1 tablespoon of molasses, 1/2 teaspoon each of ground ginger and cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. If you prefer a bit more sweetness, add 1 tablespoon of maple syrup or honey now. Stir all ingredients thoroughly, making sure the spices and sugars are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Refrigerate Overnight
Seal your container or cover your bowl with a lid or plastic wrap, then pop it in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours or overnight. This allows the oats to fully absorb the liquid and flavors, softening into luscious, spiced perfection without any effort in the morning.
Step 4: Ready to Enjoy
When morning comes, give your Gingerbread Cookie Overnight Oats a good stir to remix the creaminess. If you find it too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up. Now it’s time to get creative with presentation and add your favorite toppings!
How to Serve Gingerbread Cookie Overnight Oats

Garnishes
To make your Gingerbread Cookie Overnight Oats feel truly special, top them with crushed gingerbread cookies or a whole gingerbread man on the side for some crunch and charm. A sprinkle of chopped nuts, a dollop of extra Greek yogurt, or a drizzle of maple syrup also elevate the texture and flavor beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair these oats with a fresh fruit salad or slices of citrus to balance the rich spices with bright, juicy notes. A hot cup of chai tea or spiced coffee complements this cozy breakfast perfectly, enhancing that warm gingerbread vibe.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Gingerbread Cookie Overnight Oats layered in a clear glass with yogurt and fruit for a pretty parfait. Or place them in cute little jars for a grab-and-go morning. Adding a cinnamon stick as a stirrer or dusting the top with extra cinnamon creates a festive, inviting look that feels like a treat every day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Because this is an overnight oats recipe, leftovers generally aren’t common, but if you do have some, keep them stored in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making for quick breakfasts throughout the week.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for Gingerbread Cookie Overnight Oats because the texture of soaked oats can become mushy and lose their delightful creaminess once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
If you prefer warm oats, you can gently microwave your overnight oats for 30 to 60 seconds, stirring halfway through. Add a splash of milk if it looks too thick after heating. The gingerbread flavors will still come through wonderfully, warmed up and comforting.
FAQs
Can I use different milk alternatives for Gingerbread Cookie Overnight Oats?
Absolutely! Almond milk works beautifully, but you can substitute oat milk, soy milk, coconut milk, or any milk you prefer. Just choose unsweetened versions to better control the sweetness and flavor balance.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free rolled oats, this Gingerbread Cookie Overnight Oats recipe is naturally gluten-free. Always double-check your spices and other ingredients if you’re sensitive.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Definitely! Swap out Greek yogurt for a plant-based alternative like coconut or almond yogurt, and use maple syrup instead of honey. The molasses is naturally vegan, so your Gingerbread Cookie Overnight Oats will be just as delicious.
How spicy is the Gingerbread Cookie Overnight Oats?
The level of spice is mild and warm, with gentle notes of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. You can adjust the amount of ground ginger or cloves if you want a stronger kick or a subtler flavor.
Can I add other toppings or mix-ins?
For sure! Chopped nuts, dried cranberries, shredded coconut, or even dark chocolate chips make fantastic mix-ins or toppings. These additions add texture and extra flavor to make the oats uniquely yours.
Final Thoughts
This Gingerbread Cookie Overnight Oats recipe is such a delightful way to start your day, combining nourishing ingredients with that nostalgic holiday warmth. It’s simple, quick to prepare, and endlessly adaptable to your tastes. Give it a try, and you’ll soon find yourself waking up excited to enjoy this cozy, spiced breakfast hug in a bowl.
PrintGingerbread Cookie Overnight Oats Recipe
Start your morning with these delicious Gingerbread Cookie Overnight Oats, a cozy and nutritious breakfast that combines the warm flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves with creamy oats and a hint of molasses. Perfect for holiday mornings or anytime you crave a comforting, make-ahead meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-cook / Refrigeration
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp molasses
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional)
For Serving
- Gingerbread man cookie
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl or mason jar, add the rolled oats, almond milk, Greek yogurt, molasses, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, vanilla extract, and maple syrup or honey if using. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Mix Thoroughly: Ensure all the spices and molasses are well incorporated with the oats and liquids. This will help the flavors meld overnight.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the bowl or seal the jar and place it in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow the oats to soften and absorb the flavors.
- Serve: In the morning, give the oats a good stir. Serve chilled topped with a gingerbread man cookie on the side for a festive touch.
Notes
- Use almond milk or any preferred milk alternative to keep the recipe dairy-free if desired.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup or honey according to your taste.
- For a crunchier texture, add nuts or seeds just before serving.
- This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled to prepare multiple servings at once.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 70 mg
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
Keywords: overnight oats, gingerbread, holiday breakfast, make ahead oats, healthy breakfast, ginger, cinnamon, molasses