Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe

If you’re like me and love waking up to a delicious, fuss-free breakfast, you’re going to adore this Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe. Imagine all the cozy flavors of carrot cake—cinnamon, nutmeg, shredded carrots, and pecans—melded into creamy oats, topped with a dreamy white chocolate cheesecake ganache. It’s the perfect make-ahead meal that feels like a treat but is packed with wholesome ingredients. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want to keep it in your breakfast rotation for good!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Each one adds a special something—from the warming spices to the crunchy pecans—and the protein powder is my secret weapon for a filling breakfast.

• Gluten-free oats: I always choose certified gluten-free oats to keep things safe and digestible, plus they soak up the liquid perfectly overnight.
• Almond milk: Unsweetened almond milk blends smoothly without overpowering the flavors.
• Chia seeds: These thicken things up while adding healthy omega-3 and fiber.
• Vanilla protein powder: I love using Vanilla Ice Cream Isolate protein powder from 1UP Nutrition—it’s gentle on my stomach. Use code BAILS for 20% off!
• Cinnamon and nutmeg: The classic carrot cake spices; don’t skip these for that signature warm flavor.
• Shredded carrots: Fresh is best for texture and sweetness, but packed works in a pinch.
• Pecans: Chopped pecans add the perfect crunch that contrasts the creamy oats.
• Raisins: You’ll love how these pop up with little bursts of natural sweetness.
• Greek yogurt: The base of the cheesecake ganache—use full-fat for creaminess or light if you prefer.
• White chocolate chips: Melted into the ganache for that luscious, sweet finish.
• Cream cheese: Softened to mix smoothly, it makes the ganache rich and tangy.

Variations

I love how flexible this Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe is—once you get the base down, you can really make it your own! Sometimes I switch up the nuts or use other dried fruit, depending on what’s in my pantry.

• Nut-free version: Swap pecans for sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds if you have allergies—I’ve done this and it still tastes fantastic.
• Vegan adaptation: Use coconut yogurt in place of Greek yogurt and skip the cream cheese or use a vegan cream cheese alternative; it’s less rich but still satisfying.
• More protein: Add a spoonful of nut butter or an extra ½ scoop of protein powder if you want a more substantial breakfast.
• Spice it up: A pinch of ground ginger or cloves can make it even more like traditional carrot cake, which I adore during cooler months.

How to Make Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Oats and Flavors

Start by combining your oats, almond milk, chia seeds, vanilla protein powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, shredded carrots, chopped pecans, and raisins in a bowl or jar. Give it a good stir so everything gets evenly distributed. I find stirring really well helps prevent those annoying dry spots or clumps of protein powder later. Then pop it into the fridge for at least an hour—overnight is even better for maximum creaminess and flavor melding.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheesecake White Chocolate Ganache

While your oats are chilling, microwave the white chocolate chips in a small bowl in short bursts (about 20 seconds at a time) until melted. Be careful not to burn it—I learned the hard way! Then, mix in the Greek yogurt and softened cream cheese. Use a whisk to smooth out any lumps. This ganache is the part that takes this recipe from simple overnight oats to a downright indulgence.

Step 3: Assemble and Set Overnight

Take the oats out of the fridge and pour the cheesecake white chocolate ganache over the top. I like to layer it gently so I get a creamy, dreamy top each morning. Then cover and put it back into the fridge overnight to let everything set beautifully.

Step 4: Enjoy Your Breakfast!

In the morning, give your oats a quick stir, then top with some extra shredded carrots and chopped pecans for a fresh crunch. I usually eat this directly from the jar while rushing out the door—it’s my favorite grab-and-go breakfast for busy mornings.

How to Serve Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping my carrot cake oats with extra shredded carrots and chopped pecans for texture, but a sprinkle of toasted coconut or a drizzle of maple syrup works wonders too. Sometimes I add a few more raisins or a dash of cinnamon on top just before eating.

Side Dishes

Since this breakfast is rich and filling, I usually pair it with a simple side like fresh fruit or a warm cup of herbal tea. In the cooler months, a spiced chai latte is an amazing match for the cozy spices in the oats.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ll layer the overnight oats and ganache in a clear parfait glass, alternating with extra carrot shreds and nuts for a pretty presentation. Adding edible flowers or a sprig of mint really makes it pop if you’re serving guests or want a fancy touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually keep any extra Carrot Cake Overnight Oats in sealed jars or containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting a bit, but after day two the texture can start to get a little mushy, so I recommend consuming within that window.

Freezing

I haven’t had great luck freezing overnight oats with ganache since the texture changes after thawing, so I prefer to make just enough for a few days. If you want to freeze, try freezing just the oats part and adding fresh ganache when thawed.

Reheating

This is best enjoyed cold straight from the fridge, but if you want warm oats, take off the ganache topping and microwave the oat portion for 30-60 seconds before stirring the ganache back in or spooning it on top after heating. That keeps the creamy topping from getting grainy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe has totally changed my mornings. It’s one of those recipes that feels indulgent yet nourishing, and knowing I can prep it the night before means no breakfast excuses. If you appreciate comforting flavors with a healthful twist, you’re going to love this one. Give it a try, customize it to your taste, and watch it become your favorite new breakfast ritual—just like it did for me!

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