Caramel Macchiato Overnight Oats
I used to have a real weakness for those fancy coffee shop macchiatos. The combination of rich espresso and sweet caramel felt like such a treat, but it wasn’t the most sustainable or energizing way to start my day.
I wanted to capture that same indulgent flavor in a breakfast that would actually keep me full and focused. That’s how these Caramel Macchiato Overnight Oats were born. They give you that coffeehouse feel right from your own fridge.
What You’ll Need
- Rolled oats
- Chia seeds
- Medjool date
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of cardamom
- Vanilla extract
- Unsweetened plant-based milk (oat or almond work well)
- Strongly brewed coffee, chilled
Pro Tips
From my kitchen to yours, here are a few tips to make sure your oats come out perfectly every time.
- Coffee is Key: For the most robust flavor, use strongly brewed coffee that has been completely chilled. Pouring hot coffee over the oats can affect the final texture and make them a bit gummy.
- Perfect Caramel Flavor: To get the best caramel-like sweetness from the date, make sure it’s very soft. Mash it thoroughly with a fork before mixing it in to ensure it dissolves well and distributes evenly.
- Master the Texture: The final consistency comes down to your oat-to-liquid ratio. If you prefer thicker oats, you can add an extra teaspoon of chia seeds. For a thinner, more liquid texture, simply stir in an extra splash of milk in the morning.
Tools Required
- Airtight jar or container with a lid
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A fork for mashing the date
- A spoon for mixing
Substitutions and Variations
This recipe is very forgiving. Here are some simple swaps you can make based on what you have on hand.
| Original Ingredient | Substitution | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rolled Oats | Quick Oats | Results in a softer, less chewy texture. |
| Chia Seeds | Ground Flaxseed | Use the same amount. The texture will be slightly different but still thick. |
| Medjool Date | 1-2 tsp Maple Syrup | This will provide sweetness but less of the deep caramel flavor. |
| Brewed Coffee | Espresso Shot or Matcha | An espresso shot gives a stronger flavor. Matcha offers a different kind of morning boost. |
Make Ahead Tips
These oats are designed to be made ahead. You can fully assemble 3-4 jars at the start of the week, leaving out the brewed coffee topping.
Store them sealed in the fridge. Each morning, just grab a jar, pour over your chilled coffee, and your breakfast is ready to go.
How to Make Caramel Macchiato Overnight Oats
Step 1: In your jar or container, add the rolled oats, chia seeds, cardamom, and salt. Stir the dry ingredients together briefly to combine.
Step 2: Add the mashed Medjool date, vanilla extract, and plant-based milk to the jar.
Step 3: Stir everything together very well, making sure the date is broken up and the chia seeds are fully incorporated. This is important for the gelling process.
Step 4: Seal the container and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This gives the oats and chia seeds time to absorb the liquid and soften.
Step 5: When you’re ready to eat, give the oats a good stir. Pour the 2-3 tablespoons of chilled brewed coffee over the top. You can enjoy it as is, or add frothed milk for a true macchiato experience.
Nutrition & Dietary Information
This breakfast is a great source of fiber and provides stable energy. Here are some estimates and ways to adapt it to your dietary needs.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~350 kcal |
| Protein | ~10g |
| Fiber | ~9g |
| Fat | ~9g |
| For This Diet | Make This Swap |
|---|---|
| Gluten-Free | Use certified gluten-free rolled oats. |
| Nut-Free | Use a nut-free milk like oat, soy, or hemp milk. |
| Lower Sugar | Omit the date and use a sugar-free sweetener to taste, or enjoy without added sweetness. |
Meal Pairings & Efficiency
For a more substantial breakfast, you can pair these oats with a side of fresh berries for added vitamins or a small handful of walnuts for extra healthy fats and crunch.
To be extra efficient, prepare all your dry ingredients (oats, chia seeds, salt, cardamom) in jars for the week. In the evening, all you have to do is add the wet ingredients, stir, and refrigerate.
Leftovers and Storage
Store any leftover overnight oats in your sealed, airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 4 days.
The texture will continue to soften each day, which many people find they enjoy even more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can I use steel-cut oats for this recipe?
Ans: It’s not recommended. Steel-cut oats are much tougher and won’t soften enough with this no-cook method, leaving them unpleasantly chewy. Stick with rolled or quick oats for the best results.
Q2. My oats seem too thick or too thin. How can I fix this?
Ans: This is an easy fix. If they are too thick, simply stir in another tablespoon or two of milk until you reach your desired consistency. If they are too thin, try adding another teaspoon of chia seeds and letting it sit for 20-30 minutes to thicken up.
Q3. Can I make a caffeine-free version?
Ans: Absolutely. You can simply omit the coffee altogether for a delicious vanilla-caramel oat flavor. If you want a different kind of flavor, you could add a teaspoon of cacao powder to make it mocha-like.
Q4. Do I have to use a date for the caramel flavor?
Ans: No, you don’t. While Medjool dates provide a rich, natural caramel taste and added fiber, you can easily substitute with 1-2 teaspoons of maple syrup, agave, or even a little brown sugar to get that touch of sweetness.
Wrapping Up
I truly hope you enjoy this simple way to make your mornings a little more special. It’s a breakfast that feels like an indulgence but is packed with wholesome ingredients to power your day.
Give the recipe a try, and feel free to make it your own. I would love to hear how it turns out for you, so please leave a comment below with your experience or any questions you might have.
