If you’ve ever wanted to enjoy the warm, cozy flavors of carrot cake but in a quick and healthy breakfast form, then this Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe is going to be your new best friend. It combines hearty oats with aromatic spices, natural sweetness from dates, and the fresh crunch of shredded carrots to create a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Perfect for busy mornings or those days you want a comforting start without the fuss, this recipe delivers all the charm of a classic dessert but in a wholesome, make-ahead breakfast bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Nine small white bowls are arranged on a white marbled surface, each filled with different ingredients. At the top right, there is a bowl with light orange shredded carrot. Next to it on the left is a bowl filled with white plant milk. Below the carrot, a bowl contains brown walnut halves. In the center, a bowl is filled with light beige rolled oats. To the left, a bowl holds greenish hemp seeds and beneath that a bowl with small black chia seeds. Below the chia seeds, a bowl contains white shredded coconut. Two brown dates sit in a bowl near the bottom center. Finally, at the top left, a bowl contains a few varied light brown and beige spices. All bowls have smooth textures and are evenly spaced. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe calls for straightforward, wholesome ingredients that work together to create a perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color. Each element brings its own magic, from creamy plant-based milk to the nutty crunch of walnuts.

½ cup oats: The hearty base that soaks up all the cozy flavors and provides sustained energy.
½ cup soy milk (or any plant milk): Adds creaminess while keeping the dish dairy-free.
2 tablespoons chia seeds: These tiny powerhouses thicken the oats and boost fiber and omega-3s.
2 tablespoons hemp seeds: Add a subtle nutty flavor plus extra protein for staying power.
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon: The quintessential spice that reminds you of all things cozy and autumnal.
⅛ teaspoon ground ginger: A little warmth and zing to brighten the flavor profile.
⅛ teaspoon turmeric: Gives a lovely golden hue and a gentle earthy note.
1 Medjool date: Naturally sweet and tender, perfectly balancing the spices and oats.
¼ cup shredded carrot: Adds fresh texture and authentic carrot cake character.
1 tablespoon coconut flakes: Brings tropical sweetness and a touch of chewiness.
1 tablespoon walnut: Crunchy, nutty, and packed with healthy fats to round out the dish.

How to Make Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe

Step 1: Combine All Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and add them to a jar or a bowl. This is where the magic starts, so be sure to toss in the oats, plant milk, chia and hemp seeds, your warming spices, date, shredded carrot, coconut flakes, and walnuts all together.

Step 2: Mix Thoroughly

Give everything a really good stir, making sure to fully incorporate the oats from the bottom of the jar so nothing stays dry. This step ensures every bite is packed with flavor and that the oats can soak up the moisture evenly.

Step 3: Refrigerate Overnight

Cover your jar or bowl tightly, then pop it into the fridge for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. This resting time gives the oats a chance to soften perfectly and the seeds to swell, adding creaminess and body to your breakfast.

How to Serve Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe

A bowl filled with a thick, creamy mix that has visible pieces of orange shredded carrot and white shreds spread throughout. The creamy mixture is speckled with green and small bits of nuts on top, adding texture. A spoon lifts a scoop from the bowl, showing the dense texture with chunks of carrot and nuts. In the background, there are two small wooden bowls, one filled with grated orange content and the other with white shreds. The bowl holding the dish is a speckled white ceramic bowl placed on a white marbled surface with a striped cloth beneath it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The simple garnishes can really elevate the dish visually and texturally. Try topping your oats with a sprinkle of extra walnut pieces, a few coconut flakes, or even a dash of cinnamon to make it feel extra special. Fresh grated carrot or a drizzle of maple syrup can add a touch of freshness or sweetness on top just before eating.

Side Dishes

Because this Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe is already quite satisfying, pairing it with fresh fruit like berries or a small handful of crunchy granola can add contrast in texture and brightness to your morning routine. A warm herbal tea or your favorite coffee goes perfectly alongside this cozy creation.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, layer the oats with Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt in a transparent glass jar for a parfait-style look. You can also add a swirl of nut butter or swirl in some homemade fruit compote to give it pops of color and extra flavor, making it both an eye-catching and delectable breakfast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to five days. It’s a great option for prepping breakfasts ahead of time so your busy mornings run smoothly. Just give it a good stir before eating to refresh the texture.

Freezing

While freezing oats can sometimes affect texture, you can freeze portions of this recipe if needed. Use airtight containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying. Keep in mind the consistency might be a bit softer once defrosted.

Reheating

If you prefer your oats warm, simply microwave for 30 to 60 seconds after taking them out of the fridge. You might need to add a splash of extra milk to loosen the texture. The warming spices will become even cozier with heat!

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of plant milk?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in dairy milk or any milk alternative you prefer. The recipe is flexible and will taste delicious either way.

What can I use if I don’t have Medjool dates?

If Medjool dates aren’t available, you can substitute with other dried fruits like raisins, chopped figs, or a bit of maple syrup or agave nectar for sweetness.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes, when you use plant-based milk like soy milk and avoid any non-vegan toppings, this recipe is completely vegan-friendly while still rich and satisfying.

How can I make this recipe more protein-packed?

Adding protein powder, extra hemp seeds, or even a dollop of nut butter are great ways to boost the protein content, making your breakfast more filling and energizing.

Can I prepare this recipe without chia seeds?

Chia seeds help thicken the oats and add nutrition, but if you don’t have them, you can still make the recipe. Just expect a slightly looser texture and consider using a bit more oats or letting it sit longer.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a breakfast that’s as comforting as carrot cake but quick, easy, and nourishing, this Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe is pure gold. It’s a simple way to start your day feeling cozy and energized, with flavors and textures that’ll keep you coming back for more. Go ahead and give it a try—your taste buds and mornings will thank you!

Carrot Cake Overnight Oats Recipe