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This Cinnamon Pear Overnight Oats recipe offers a delicious and wholesome way to start your day with minimal effort.
Combining naturally sweet, juicy pears with warming cinnamon creates a comforting, autumn-inspired flavor that feels indulgent yet nutritious.
Beyond taste, this breakfast packs a solid nutritional punch: it’s rich in fiber from oats and chia seeds, which support digestive health and help keep you feeling full longer.
The use of plant-based milk keeps it dairy-free and low in saturated fat, while chia seeds add a boost of omega-3 healthy fats and plant-based protein.
With only a handful of simple ingredients and no cooking required, it’s an ideal meal-prep-friendly breakfast that’s quick to prepare, satisfying, and customizable with your favorite toppings.
Perfect for busy mornings, this recipe balances health and convenience without compromising on flavor.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
Mixing Bowl
An essential for combining all ingredients smoothly, ensuring even distribution of oats, fruit, and spices. It’s versatile for everything from salads to baking prep, making it a kitchen staple.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accuracy matters when balancing flavors and textures in overnight oats. These tools guarantee consistent results and are invaluable for all your cooking and baking needs.
Mason Jars or Glass Storage Containers
Perfect for portioning and storing overnight oats. They provide airtight storage to keep your breakfast fresh and are reusable, eco-friendly options for meal prep.
Cutting Board
Provides a clean, sturdy surface for chopping pears and other ingredients safely and efficiently. A durable cutting board is indispensable for any kitchen task.
Cling Film or Reusable Food Covers
Ideal for sealing your bowl or containers to refrigerate the oats overnight, keeping flavors locked in and preventing spills. Reusable covers are an eco-conscious choice.
Cinnamon Pear Overnight Oats
Equipment
- 1 Medium mixing bowl
- 1 Set Measuring Cups and Spoons
- 2 Mason Jars or Glass Storage Containers
- 1 Cutting board
- Cling Film or Reusable Food Covers
Ingredients
- 1 medium pear chopped into 1 cm cubes
- 1 ¼ cups 300 ml almond or oat milk
- 1 cup 80 g rolled oats
- ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 3 teaspoons maple syrup
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt flakes
- Optional toppings: additional fresh pear cubes Greek yoghurt
Instructions
- Prepare Your Ingredients Thoughtfully: Begin by gathering all the necessary ingredients on your kitchen counter. Select a ripe, fresh pear that is sweet and juicy, such as a Packham pear or any variety you enjoy. Wash the pear thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or residue. Using a sharp knife and a clean cutting board, carefully chop the pear into small, uniform cubes about 1 centimeter (or ½ inch) in size. Uniform pieces ensure even texture and a pleasant bite throughout your oats. Measure out your rolled oats, chia seeds, ground cinnamon, maple syrup, sea salt, and your choice of milk (almond or oat milk works beautifully for a creamy, dairy-free base). Having everything ready makes the mixing process smooth and efficient.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients Gently: Select a medium-sized mixing bowl with enough room to hold all ingredients comfortably. First, add the rolled oats, chia seeds, ground cinnamon, and sea salt flakes to the bowl. These dry ingredients will form the base of your overnight oats, providing fiber, texture, and flavor. Next, pour in the almond or oat milk carefully, ensuring not to spill. Add the maple syrup for natural sweetness that complements the pear’s fruity notes. Using a sturdy spoon or spatula, stir the mixture gently but thoroughly. Aim to evenly distribute the cinnamon and chia seeds throughout the oats and milk, avoiding clumps. This blending process ensures every spoonful will be flavorful and well-balanced.
- Fold in Fresh Pear Cubes Carefully: Once the oat mixture is smooth and well combined, gently fold in the chopped pear cubes. Use a folding motion—lifting from the bottom and turning over—to preserve the shape and texture of the fruit pieces. Avoid stirring vigorously to prevent the pear from breaking down and turning mushy overnight. The fresh pear adds natural sweetness, moisture, and a pleasant crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy oats. Incorporating it now ensures the fruit is evenly dispersed, so every bite offers a burst of flavor.
- Portion and Seal for Refrigeration: If you prefer a casual serving, cover the mixing bowl tightly with cling film or a reusable food cover to prevent moisture loss and odors from other foods in the fridge. For a more convenient, grab-and-go breakfast, divide the oat mixture evenly between two clean mason jars or glass storage containers with airtight lids. Mason jars are perfect for single servings, making morning routines effortless. Once filled, securely close each jar or container to maintain freshness. This step also helps the oats absorb the liquid evenly as they chill.
- Refrigerate Overnight for Optimal Texture: Place your covered bowl or individual jars into the refrigerator for a minimum of 6 hours, though leaving them overnight (8 to 12 hours) is ideal. The extended chill time allows the oats and chia seeds to fully absorb the milk, softening and thickening into a creamy, pudding-like consistency. The flavors meld during this resting period, so the cinnamon infuses subtly, and the pear’s sweetness permeates the oats. This slow soaking method requires no cooking and prepares a nourishing breakfast ready at a moment’s notice.
- Serve with Optional Toppings and Enjoy: In the morning, remove your oats from the refrigerator and give the mixture a gentle stir if needed to loosen the texture. If you find the oats too thick, add a splash of your preferred milk to thin it to your liking. Transfer the oats into bowls if you used a mixing bowl or enjoy straight from the jars. Top with additional fresh pear cubes for extra freshness and a dollop of creamy Greek yoghurt to add protein and tanginess—both elevate the taste and texture beautifully. Serve immediately for a satisfying, wholesome start to your day that’s packed with fiber, plant-based protein, and heart-healthy fats.
Notes
- Pear Variety: Choose a pear that is ripe but firm to avoid mushiness overnight. Packham or Bartlett pears work well.
- Milk Choice: Use your preferred milk—almond, oat, or any plant-based milk—to keep this recipe dairy-free and customize the flavor. Adjust the milk quantity if you want thinner or thicker oats.
- Sweetener: Maple syrup adds natural sweetness, but honey or agave syrup can be substituted if preferred.
- Chia Seeds: These not only boost nutrition with omega-3 fatty acids but also help thicken the oats for a creamy texture.
- Toppings: Fresh pear and Greek yoghurt toppings are optional but add extra texture and protein.
Chef’s Secrets for Creamy Texture
Achieving the perfect overnight oats texture depends on a few simple tricks.
First, be sure to use rolled oats rather than instant or steel-cut oats, as they absorb liquid just right overnight without turning too mushy or too firm.
Incorporating chia seeds is a game-changer—they absorb moisture and create a luscious, pudding-like consistency while adding nutrition.
When mixing, fold in the pear gently to keep the fruit’s shape intact, ensuring each bite offers a burst of freshness.
Refrigerate for at least six hours, but longer (up to 12 hours) intensifies flavor blending and softens the oats perfectly.
If the mixture thickens more than you like, a splash of milk when serving helps loosen it to your preferred creaminess.
Serving Suggestions to Elevate Breakfast
This cinnamon pear overnight oats recipe is versatile and can be tailored to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
For a protein boost, add a dollop of Greek yoghurt or a spoonful of nut butter on top.
Sprinkle toasted nuts such as almonds or walnuts for crunch and healthy fats.
Fresh fruits like berries, pomegranate seeds, or sliced banana add vibrant color and additional nutrients.
For an indulgent touch, drizzle with a little extra maple syrup or a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.
Enjoy it chilled straight from the jar for a quick meal or warmed gently if you prefer a cozy, comforting start.
Storage Tips for Freshness and Flavor
Store your overnight oats covered in airtight containers or mason jars in the refrigerator.
Proper sealing prevents the oats from drying out and keeps them tasting fresh for up to 3 days, making this recipe excellent for meal prepping.
Avoid freezing as the texture of soaked oats and pears can change unpleasantly.
If you find the oats become too thick after refrigeration, simply stir in a little milk to loosen before eating.
Always check for freshness and consume within the recommended time to enjoy optimal flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions Answered Clearly
1. Can I use other fruits besides pear?
Absolutely! Apples, peaches, or berries work wonderfully and pair well with cinnamon. Adjust the sweetness accordingly based on the fruit’s natural sugar content.
2. Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes, if you use plant-based milk and skip the Greek yoghurt topping or substitute it with a dairy-free yogurt alternative, it’s completely vegan.
3. How can I make this recipe higher in protein?
Adding a scoop of protein powder to the oat mixture or topping with Greek yoghurt or nut butter can boost protein content without changing the flavor drastically.
4. Can I prepare this without chia seeds?
You can omit chia seeds, but they help thicken and add nutrition. Without them, the oats may be slightly less creamy and thick.
5. What’s the best way to serve if I don’t like cold oats?
Warm the overnight oats gently in the microwave for 30-60 seconds before serving. Stir well and add a splash of milk to loosen the texture if needed.
This recipe is inspired by itsnotcomplicatedrecipes and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.
