Start your day with this wholesome, no-cook carrot oatmeal that’s packed with fiber, plant-based protein, and natural sweetness.
Quick to prepare and perfect for meal prep, it combines heart-healthy oats, chia seeds, and naturally sweet raisins with vibrant grated carrots.
Low in saturated fat and refined sugar, it’s a satisfying, nutrient-dense breakfast or snack for busy mornings.
5-Minute Carrot Cake Overnight Oats
Equipment
- 1 medium mixing container with lid
- 1 spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup quick-cooking oats or rolled oats
- ½ cup finely grated carrot
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground allspice
- 1 tbsp chia seeds
- 3 tbsp raisins
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 ¼ cups unsweetened almond milk
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt optional, 2% or preferred type
Instructions
- Prepare Your Container: Choose a medium-sized container with a secure lid, such as a mason jar or a small mixing bowl. This container will hold your oats while they soak overnight. Using a container with a lid ensures your oatmeal absorbs the flavors without spilling and makes it perfect for on-the-go breakfasts.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In your container, add 1 cup of quick-cooking oats (or rolled oats if you prefer a slightly chewier texture). Then, grate 1/2 cup of fresh carrot finely—this adds natural sweetness, moisture, and a subtle crunch. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of ground allspice for a warm, comforting spice profile. Add 1 tablespoon of chia seeds, which provide fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and help thicken the oatmeal, followed by 3 tablespoons of raisins for natural sweetness and a chewy texture. Stir these dry ingredients gently with a spoon or spatula until evenly combined.
- Mix Wet Ingredients : In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract with 3 tablespoons of maple syrup. Pour in 1 1/4 cups of unsweetened almond milk, stirring to blend the vanilla and syrup evenly throughout the liquid. If using, add 1/4 cup of Greek yogurt at this stage. The yogurt adds creaminess and a boost of protein, but it’s optional depending on dietary preference.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Slowly pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients in your container. Using a spoon or spatula, stir everything together until the oats, carrots, spices, raisins, and chia seeds are fully coated with the liquid. Ensure that no dry pockets of oats remain, as this helps the flavors meld and the oats to soften evenly.
- Refrigerate for Soaking: Secure the lid on your container tightly. Place it in the refrigerator and allow the oats to soak for at least 2 hours, though overnight is ideal. During this time, the oats and chia seeds will absorb the liquid, softening into a creamy, cohesive texture while the spices, raisins, and carrot meld together for maximum flavor.
- Prepare for Serving: When ready to enjoy, give the oats a gentle stir to ensure an even consistency. If you prefer creamier oats, add a splash of almond milk to loosen the mixture.
- Add Toppings: Top your oats with a dollop of Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of chopped pecans, or additional raisins for texture and flavor contrast. This step is fully customizable—experiment with your favorite nuts, seeds, or even a drizzle of nut butter for extra richness.
- Enjoy: Your carrot overnight oats are now ready to enjoy! Serve cold straight from the fridge, or let sit at room temperature for a few minutes if you prefer a slightly softer texture. This nutrient-dense breakfast is packed with fiber, plant-based protein, and healthy fats, making it a satisfying start to your day or a nourishing snack anytime.
Notes
- This recipe can easily be doubled or tripled to prepare multiple servings for meal prep.
- For a creamier texture, substitute some or all almond milk with oat milk or soy milk.
- Feel free to swap raisins with dried cranberries, chopped dates, or chopped apricots for variation.
- Greek yogurt is optional but adds extra protein and creaminess; plant-based yogurt works well for a vegan version.
- Adjust sweetness according to taste—add more or less maple syrup depending on preference.
- To enhance flavor, lightly toast the oats before mixing with other ingredients.
Chef’s Secrets To Perfect Oats
The secret to making creamy, flavorful overnight oats lies in the soaking process.
Use a container with a tight lid to prevent moisture loss and ensure even absorption.
Grating the carrot finely allows it to blend seamlessly with the oats while releasing natural sweetness.
For extra depth, lightly toast the oats in a dry skillet for a few minutes before mixing—they develop a subtle nutty flavor.
Always give the mixture a good stir before refrigerating to evenly distribute spices, seeds, and raisins, ensuring each bite has consistent flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions For Extra Flavor
These carrot overnight oats are versatile and can be served in many ways.
Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a plant-based alternative for creaminess.
Add a handful of chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds to introduce crunch and healthy fats.
Fresh fruit such as banana slices, berries, or diced apples can enhance natural sweetness and add color.
For a touch of indulgence, drizzle a little extra maple syrup or a sprinkle of shredded coconut.
Pairing the oats with a cup of herbal tea or black coffee makes for a balanced, energizing breakfast.
Storage Tips To Maintain Freshness
Overnight oats store wonderfully in the fridge, making them ideal for meal prep.
Keep them in a sealed container to preserve freshness and prevent absorption of other refrigerator odors.
Prepared oats will last up to 5 days, though they are best enjoyed within 2–3 days for optimal texture and flavor.
If they become too thick after storage, stir in a splash of almond milk to loosen them.
Toppings such as nuts or fruit should be added just before serving to maintain their crunch and freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use rolled oats instead?
Yes! Rolled oats work perfectly in place of quick-cooking oats. They will produce a slightly chewier texture and may require a few extra hours of soaking to reach the desired creaminess.
2. Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Absolutely! Simply omit the Greek yogurt or substitute it with plant-based yogurt. Maple syrup, almond milk, and chia seeds already keep the recipe entirely plant-based.
3. How sweet is this recipe?
The natural sweetness comes from raisins, grated carrot, and maple syrup. You can adjust the amount of maple syrup to taste, or swap raisins for other dried fruits like dates or cranberries for a different flavor profile.
4. Can I freeze overnight oats?
It is possible, though the texture may change slightly after freezing. If freezing, portion the oats into individual containers without toppings. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving, and add any fresh fruit or nuts just before eating.
5. Can I prepare this recipe in advance for the week?
Yes! Overnight oats are ideal for meal prep. Store individual portions in sealed containers for up to 5 days. For variety, add different toppings each morning to keep breakfast exciting and flavorful.
