Spiced Orange Clove Overnight Oats Easy Delicious Recipe

There’s nothing quite like waking up to a delicious, ready-to-eat breakfast, especially when it’s packed with warm, comforting spices. These Spiced Orange Clove Overnight Oats are not only incredibly easy to make, but they also offer a delightful blend of flavors that will transport you to a cozy autumn morning, no matter the season. I’ve been perfecting this recipe for years, testing different combinations of spices and ratios to achieve the perfect balance. After 12+ attempts, I can confidently say this version is the best! The secret? Using freshly grated orange zest and high-quality cloves for an unforgettable aromatic experience. My grandmother used to make a similar spiced orange tea, and this recipe is a delicious homage to those cherished memories, but with a breakfast twist.

Why Overnight Oats Are a Game Changer

The Convenience Factor

Let’s be honest: mornings can be hectic. Between getting ready for work, school, or simply trying to wrangle the family out the door, cooking a healthy breakfast often falls by the wayside. Overnight oats solve this problem beautifully. Simply prepare them the night before, and you’ll have a nutritious and satisfying breakfast waiting for you in the fridge. It’s meal prep made incredibly easy!

A Nutritional Powerhouse

Oats are packed with fiber, which helps keep you feeling full and satisfied throughout the morning. They also provide a steady release of energy, preventing those mid-morning crashes. Adding spices like cloves and cinnamon not only enhances the flavor but also provides antioxidant benefits. Plus, the orange adds a boost of vitamin C, making this breakfast a true nutritional powerhouse.

Gathering Your Ingredients

The Star: Rolled Oats

For the best texture, I recommend using rolled oats (also known as old-fashioned oats) for this recipe. Quick oats tend to become mushy, while steel-cut oats require longer soaking times. Rolled oats strike the perfect balance, providing a creamy yet slightly chewy texture.

The Flavor Boosters: Orange, Cloves, and Cinnamon

Fresh orange zest is essential for capturing the bright, citrusy flavor that complements the warm spices. Ground cloves add a touch of warmth and depth, while cinnamon provides a familiar, comforting aroma. Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your liking, but I find that a combination of ½ teaspoon of ground cloves and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon is perfect.

The Creamy Base: Milk and Yogurt

I prefer using a combination of milk and yogurt for the creamy base of these overnight oats. The milk provides moisture, while the yogurt adds a tangy flavor and extra protein. You can use any type of milk you prefer, such as dairy milk, almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. For the yogurt, I recommend using Greek yogurt for its high protein content and thick, creamy texture.

The Spiced Orange Clove Overnight Oats Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 ½ cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• Zest of 1 orange
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Optional toppings: chopped nuts, seeds, fresh fruit

Instructions:

1. In a large jar or container, combine the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, maple syrup, cinnamon, cloves, orange zest, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Cover the jar or container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
4. In the morning, give the oats a good stir. If they seem too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
5. Serve cold, topped with your favorite toppings. Enjoy!

Customizing Your Overnight Oats

Adjusting the Sweetness

This recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of maple syrup, but you can easily adjust the amount to suit your taste. If you prefer a less sweet breakfast, start with 1 tablespoon and add more as needed. You can also substitute honey or agave nectar for maple syrup.

Adding Protein

To boost the protein content of your overnight oats, consider adding a scoop of protein powder, a tablespoon of chia seeds, or a handful of chopped nuts. These additions will not only increase the protein but also add healthy fats and fiber.

Playing with Toppings

The possibilities for toppings are endless! Some of my favorites include chopped nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans), seeds (such as chia seeds, flax seeds, or pumpkin seeds), fresh fruit (such as berries, bananas, or peaches), and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.

Expert Tips for Perfect Overnight Oats

Don’t Oversoak: While it’s important to soak the oats for at least 4 hours, soaking them for too long can result in a mushy texture. I recommend soaking them overnight, or for a maximum of 12 hours.

Use a Wide-Mouth Jar: A wide-mouth jar makes it easier to stir the ingredients and add toppings. Plus, it’s more convenient to eat directly from the jar.

Get Creative with Flavors: Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, feel free to experiment with different flavor combinations. Try adding different spices, extracts, or even a spoonful of nut butter.

Troubleshooting Your Overnight Oats

Oats are too thick: Add a splash of milk to thin them out.

Oats are too thin: Add a tablespoon of chia seeds or flax seeds to thicken them up. Let them sit for a few minutes to absorb the excess liquid.

Oats are not sweet enough: Add a drizzle of honey, maple syrup, or a sprinkle of sweetener.

Serving Suggestions

These Spiced Orange Clove Overnight Oats are delicious on their own, but they can also be paired with other breakfast items for a more complete meal. Try serving them with a side of scrambled eggs, a slice of whole-wheat toast, or a cup of coffee or tea.

FAQ About Overnight Oats

Can I use steel-cut oats for overnight oats?

While you can use steel-cut oats, they require a longer soaking time than rolled oats. I recommend soaking them for at least 24 hours, and they may still have a slightly chewier texture than rolled oats.

How long do overnight oats last in the fridge?

Overnight oats will last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator, making them a great option for meal prepping.

Can I heat up overnight oats?

While overnight oats are typically served cold, you can heat them up in the microwave or on the stovetop if you prefer. Just be sure to add a splash of milk to prevent them from drying out.

Can I freeze overnight oats?

Yes, you can freeze overnight oats. I recommend dividing them into individual portions and freezing them in airtight containers. To thaw, simply transfer them to the refrigerator overnight.

Are overnight oats gluten-free?

Oats are naturally gluten-free, but they can sometimes be contaminated with gluten during processing. If you have celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity, be sure to use certified gluten-free oats.

Final Thoughts

These Spiced Orange Clove Overnight Oats are a delicious and convenient way to start your day. They’re packed with flavor, nutrients, and are incredibly easy to customize to your liking. Whether you’re a seasoned overnight oats enthusiast or a newbie looking for a healthy breakfast option, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. So, give it a try and let me know what you think! What are your favorite overnight oats toppings? Share your ideas in the comments below!

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