Looking for a breakfast that’s as refreshing as it is effortless? Say hello to orange overnight oats!

This recipe combines the bright, citrusy flavor of oranges with creamy yogurt and nutritious oats for a wholesome, energizing start to your day.

The best part? You can whip it up the night before and wake up to a ready-to-eat breakfast that’s bursting with sunshine and nutrition.

Whether you’re juggling a busy morning or just want to make your mornings smoother, these overnight oats are the perfect solution. Let’s dive into how to make this deliciously simple recipe!

Why you’ll love this orange overnight oat recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a breakfast that’s equal parts refreshing, nutritious, and hassle-free, you’re in the right place.

These orange overnight oats are a game-changer for busy mornings and are packed with flavor to brighten your day.

Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this recipe:

Zesty citrus flavor: The vibrant chopped orange and orange extract give these oats a burst of sunshine in every bite. It’s a refreshing twist on traditional overnight oats that feels like a little indulgence.
Convenient and make-ahead friendly: Mornings just got easier! Prep a jar (or two) the night before, and you’ll have a grab-and-go breakfast ready when you need it. Perfect for busy weekdays or meal-prep enthusiasts.
Healthy yet satisfying: Made with wholesome ingredients like rolled oats, yogurt, and fresh orange, this recipe offers fiber, protein, and natural sweetness to keep you full and energized all morning long.

Who knew a simple breakfast could bring so much joy?

Overnight oats ingredients and some notes

Making a batch of orange overnight oats is super simple, and each ingredient plays a key role in creating a creamy, flavorful, and nutritious breakfast.

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why:

Old-fashioned oats: These are the perfect base for overnight oats. They soak up liquid beautifully without turning to mush, giving you a satisfying texture.
Yogurt: Adds creaminess and a boost of protein, making the oats richer and more filling. Use your favorite dairy or non-dairy yogurt for flexibility.
Navel orange: The star of the recipe! Navel oranges bring bright, fresh citrus flavor and natural sweetness.
Honey: A touch of honey balances the tartness of the yogurt and enhances the sweetness of the oranges. Feel free to substitute with maple syrup for a vegan option.
Vanilla: A splash of vanilla adds a warm, comforting aroma and complements the citrus notes.
Orange extract: For an extra burst of orange flavor, orange extract can makes this recipe pop. It’s optional but highly recommended for citrus lovers.
Chia seeds: These tiny seeds work wonders for thickening the oats while adding fiber, omega-3s, and a fun texture.

With these ingredients, you’ll have a deliciously creamy and refreshing breakfast waiting for you in the morning!

How to make orange overnight oats

Making orange overnight oats is super simple and perfect for busy mornings!

With just a few minutes of prep the night before, you’ll wake up to a creamy, citrusy breakfast that’s ready to go.

Here’s how to do it:

Gather your ingredients. You’ll need rolled oats, milk (dairy or non-dairy), orange juice, orange zest, Greek yogurt (or a dairy-free alternative), a sweetener of your choice (like honey or maple syrup), and any optional toppings like nuts or seeds.
Combine the dry ingredients. In a mason jar or small bowl, add ½ cup of rolled oats and a pinch of orange zest. The zest adds a burst of citrus flavor, so don’t skip it!
Mix in the liquids. Pour in ½ cup of milk and ¼ cup of freshly squeezed orange juice. Stir everything well to ensure the oats are evenly coated.
Add yogurt and sweetener. Stir in 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt to make the oats extra creamy. Add 1–2 teaspoons of honey or maple syrup, adjusting the sweetness to your preference.
Seal and refrigerate. Cover the jar or bowl with a lid or plastic wrap, then place it in the refrigerator overnight (or at least 6 hours). This allows the oats to absorb the liquid and soften.
Top and enjoy. In the morning, give the oats a good stir. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of milk. Top with orange segments, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of granola for some extra crunch, and enjoy!

These overnight oats are as refreshing as they are convenient—perfect for starting your day on a bright and healthy note.

Prep tips

Making orange overnight oats is super simple, but a few tricks can take your breakfast to the next level. Whether you’re new to overnight oats or a seasoned pro, these tips will help ensure your oats turn out creamy, flavorful, and ready to fuel your day.

Use old-fashioned rolled oats. Stick with old-fashioned rolled oats for the best texture. Quick oats can get too mushy, and steel-cut oats won’t soften enough overnight. Rolled oats hit that sweet spot of creamy and chewy.
Sweeten to taste. Depending on the sweetness of your orange and your personal preference, adjust the sweetener. Maple syrup or honey works beautifully, but feel free to skip it if your orange is naturally sweet enough.
Use a chopstick. If you’re making your oats in a mason jar, use a chopstick to easily and cleanly mix up the overnight oats.
Make sure your jar is big enough. This recipe makes about a cup and a half of overnight oats, so make sure to use a jar that holds at least that much.

These simple tips will guarantee your orange overnight oats are not just good—but absolutely crave-worthy

Conclusion

There you have it—an easy, delicious, and healthy way to start your day! Orange overnight oats are the perfect breakfast for busy mornings, offering a refreshing burst of citrus and the creamy satisfaction of oats, all prepped the night before.

Whether you’re looking for a wholesome meal on the go or a make-ahead option for a relaxing morning at home, this recipe has you covered.

Give it a try and make it your own by experimenting with toppings or swapping in your favorite flavors.

If you make this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out—share your thoughts in the comments below. Here’s to mornings made brighter, one jar of orange overnight oats at a time!