If you're looking for a nourishing and easy breakfast that tastes like dessert, you'll love this Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe. It's perfect for busy mornings when you want something wholesome, cozy, and packed with flavor-all ready to go from the fridge. I like making this the night before, so when morning hits, you can just dig in and enjoy a creamy, spiced treat without any fuss.

A clear glass bowl holds three main layers: the bottom layer is a creamy mix with specks of oats and nuts in light beige and off-white colors; the middle layer is creamy white, topped directly by a bright orange shredded carrot layer that fills up most of the bowl's upper half; on top, there is a dollop of smooth white cream with a drizzle of golden honey, sprinkled with small brown spices, and garnished with whole and chopped walnuts, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 1:1 --v 7 - Carrot Cake Overnight Oats, healthy overnight oats, easy breakfast recipes, nutritious vegan breakfast, dessert-like oatmeal

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Why You'll Make This on Repeat
Ingredient Highlights
Step-by-Step for Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe
Kitchen Notes I Rely On
Serving & Sides
Make-Ahead & Storage
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Printable Recipe

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Why You'll Make This on Repeat

This Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe feels like a little morning indulgence but packs enough fiber and protein to keep you energized. The natural sweetness pairs beautifully with warm spices, creating a breakfast that's both comforting and refreshing.

Reliable Texture: Creamy oats soak up the flavors but still keep a pleasant bite, never mushy.
Balanced, Cozy Flavor: Cinnamon and nutmeg complement the grated carrot perfectly, for that classic carrot cake experience without the guilt.
Pantry-Friendly: Uses simple staples and a touch of sweetness from maple syrup-you might already have everything on hand.
Weeknight Simple: Prepped in just 10 minutes, then left to chill overnight so mornings are seamless and stress-free.

Ingredient Highlights

A clear glass bowl shows a layered dish with five visible layers: starting at the bottom, there is a layer of bright orange shredded carrots, followed by a creamy white layer with small grainy textures like oats or seeds. Above this is another thick white creamy layer mixed with more oats or grains. Next comes another layer of bright orange shredded carrots packed tightly. On top, there is a smooth white cream layer crowned with a generous amount of whole and chopped walnuts sprinkled with dark brown spice or powder and a drizzle of golden honey or syrup. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 1:1 --v 7 - Carrot Cake Overnight Oats, healthy overnight oats, easy breakfast recipes, nutritious vegan breakfast, dessert-like oatmeal

Choosing your ingredients wisely can make all the difference. For this Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe, opting for fresh, firm carrots and quality almond milk will enhance both taste and texture. I find that organic rolled oats give the best hearty chew, but you can adjust based on your preferences.

Rolled oats: Go for old-fashioned rolled oats, not instant-they soak evenly without getting mushy.
Almond milk: Unsweetened works best to keep control over sweetness; you can swap for any milk you like.
Grated carrot: Fresh and finely grated for that slight crunch and natural sweetness infusion.
Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and a bit of tang; full-fat varieties create a richer mouthfeel.
Maple syrup: Real maple syrup adds warmth and balances the spices, but honey or agave work too.
Spices: Freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg elevate the recipe with cozy aroma and flavor.
Raisins and walnuts: Raisins plump up overnight and walnuts bring a toasty crunch, complementing the carrot cake vibe.

Flat lay of a small pile of rolled oats, a small white bowl of almond milk, a medium fresh carrot grated into thin orange shreds, a small white bowl of thick Greek yogurt, a small white bowl of golden maple syrup, a small heap of ground cinnamon powder, a small heap of ground nutmeg powder, a small white bowl of plump dark raisins, a small pile of chopped walnuts, and a vanilla bean pod placed simply and symmetrically, all arranged on simple white ceramic dishes and bowls, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 1:1 --v 7 --p m7354639359234015250 - Carrot Cake Overnight Oats, healthy overnight oats, easy breakfast recipes, nutritious vegan breakfast, dessert-like oatmeal

Quick Note: Exact measurements are in the printable recipe card at the bottom.

Step-by-Step for Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe

Step 1 - Prep & Season

Start by grating your carrot finely-this helps it meld into the oats better and keeps the texture inviting. Then in a medium bowl, mix rolled oats, almond milk, Greek yogurt, and sweetener gently. You'll notice how glossy and thick the mixture gets now, setting the base. Add in cinnamon, nutmeg, grated carrot, raisins, chopped walnuts if using, and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly but gently to combine everything evenly without breaking up the raisins or nuts.

Step 2 - Build Flavor

Once combined, transfer the mixture to a jar or airtight container. This step is key for letting the oats soak up all those cozy spices and flavors. The raisins and carrots will hydrate overnight, releasing their sweetness naturally. It's always satisfying to see the oats plump and the mixture thicken as it chills-it's like a flavor symphony building quietly while you sleep.

Step 3 - Finish for Best Texture

After refrigerating overnight or at least 4 hours, your Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe is ready for breakfast. Give it a good stir to break up any chunks and to distribute moisture evenly. You'll want a creamy but slightly textured bite-if it feels too thick, add a splash of milk. Eat it cold for a refreshing start, or warm gently for about 30 seconds in the microwave if you prefer. Either way, it's delicious and satisfying.

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Kitchen Notes I Rely On

Having made this Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe countless times, I've found a few tricks that really make mornings easier and tastier. From the perfect oat texture to balancing the sweetness, these notes keep my prep stress-free.

Doneness Cue: The oats should look creamy and swollen but still have small individual grains visible.
Temperature Trick: If warming, go low and slow in the microwave - 20-second bursts stirring in between prevent drying out.
Make-Ahead Move: You can double the recipe and portion into jars for a week's worth of breakfasts.
Skip This Pitfall: Don't skip the Greek yogurt-it adds creaminess and helps keep the mixture from feeling bland.

Serving & Sides

Finishing Touches

I like to add a little extra crunch on top before serving - a sprinkling of chopped walnuts or toasted coconut flakes gives a lovely contrast to the creamy oats. A drizzle of extra maple syrup on top is always welcome if you have a sweet tooth. Sometimes a dollop of Greek yogurt or a few fresh berries brightens it up and makes it feel like a special treat.

Pairs Nicely With

This recipe goes beautifully alongside a cup of black coffee or herbal tea to start the day grounded and warm. If you're looking for extra sustenance, pairing it with a boiled egg or a scoop of nut butter on the side provides extra protein and richness for a balanced breakfast.

Simple Plating Upgrades

For a quick weekend upgrade, serve the oats in a pretty glass jar layered with additional grated carrot and a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. Adding a mint leaf or a thin slice of fresh carrot curls imparts freshness and visual appeal. These small touches make the humble overnight oats feel more special when sharing breakfast with family or friends.

Make-Ahead & Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers stored in an airtight jar or container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The oats will continue to soften over time, so they're best enjoyed within the first couple of days for that ideal creamy yet textured bite. Give it a quick stir before eating to restore the creamy consistency.

Freezer Tips

I don't recommend freezing this Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe because the texture of soaked oats and yogurt can become watery or grainy after thawing. It's best to make it fresh in batches to keep that fresh, lush mouthfeel intact.

Reheating Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe Without Drying Out

If you prefer your oats warm, microwave them gently in a covered bowl at 50% power for 20-30 second intervals, stirring between bursts. Add a splash of milk before heating to keep it creamy and avoid drying out. Alternatively, warming in a low-temperature oven-safe dish wrapped with foil works well for a slow and even heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Just swap Greek yogurt for a plant-based yogurt and ensure your milk choice is dairy-free. The rest stays the same and still tastes delicious.

How long do overnight oats last in the fridge?

Typically, they last about 3 to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container. Beyond that, texture and flavor may decline.

Can I add other mix-ins to the oats?

Yes! Feel free to add shredded coconut, chia seeds, or swap raisins for dried cranberries. Just keep the liquid-to-oats ratio consistent for the right texture.

Is it important to peel the carrot?

Not necessarily. Just be sure to wash it well. Leaving the peel adds more fiber and nutrients, but if you prefer a smoother texture, peeling is fine.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe becomes a staple in your morning lineup like it is in mine. It's comforting without being heavy, sweet but not overpowering, and quick enough to prep even after a busy day. Next time you want that cozy carrot cake vibe for breakfast, you'll have this go-to waiting for you in the fridge-ready to brighten your day with just a spoonful.

Printable Recipe