Cinnamon Pear Overnight Oats
A quick and nutritious breakfast combining creamy oats, fresh pear, and warm cinnamon, soaked overnight for effortless mornings. This fiber-rich, plant-based meal is perfect for busy lifestyles and meal prepping.
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.
