High Protein Gingerbread Overnight Oats
High Protein Gingerbread Overnight Oats are the perfect way to start your day with a warm and cozy flavor that reminds you of the holidays. This recipe blends oats with…
By Ava
•
•
Reading time: 6 min
Tip: save now, make later.
High Protein Gingerbread Overnight Oats are the perfect way to start your day with a warm and cozy flavor that reminds you of the holidays. This recipe blends oats with protein-packed ingredients and just the right amount of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses to give you that classic gingerbread taste without the oven or baking. It’s creamy, a little spicy, and filling enough to keep you energized all morning.
I love making these oats the night before because they’re ready to grab when I’m rushing in the morning. The protein powder boosts my energy, and the spices make each bite feel special, like a little morning treat. I also like to throw in some chopped nuts or a dollop of yogurt on top for extra texture and creaminess. It’s a simple way to feel like you’re enjoying something indulgent but still healthy and satisfying.
One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is. If you want it sweeter, just add a bit more molasses or a drizzle of honey. If you like it spicier, a tiny pinch more ginger or cinnamon will do the trick. I usually enjoy it cold straight from the fridge, but it’s just as good warmed up on cooler mornings. This has become my go-to when I want breakfast that feels both comforting and helps me stick to my protein goals.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled oats: These absorb liquid well and soften overnight, giving a creamy texture. You can swap for quick oats if short on time, but the texture will be a bit softer.
Protein powder: I use vanilla for a mild sweetness, but unflavored or other flavors work too. Plant-based powders like pea or hemp are great if you avoid dairy.
Greek yogurt: It boosts protein and makes the oats creamy. Use dairy or coconut yogurt for a dairy-free option. Plain yogurt balances flavors best.
Molasses: This is key for the gingerbread taste and adds a deep sweetness. If you can’t find it, mix a little honey or maple syrup with a pinch of ground ginger to keep the flavor.
Spices (ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves): These bring warm, cozy notes. Freshly ground spices will give the best aroma but pre-ground works fine too.
How Do You Make Overnight Oats Thick, Creamy, and Flavorful?
Overnight oats need time to soak so they soften but don’t get mushy. Here’s how I make sure they turn out just right:
- Mix oats and dry ingredients well so spices and protein powder are evenly spread.
- Stir in yogurt and molasses before adding milk for better flavor infusion.
- Use enough liquid (milk + yogurt) to cover the oats comfortably; they’ll absorb and thicken overnight.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for the flavors to meld and texture to improve.
- If too thick in the morning, stir in a bit of milk to loosen.
Adding chia seeds is optional but helps thicken and add a nice texture. Toppings like nuts or a gingerbread cookie give crunch and extra flavor that make eating breakfast more fun.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mason jar or airtight container – perfect for layering ingredients and storing oats overnight.
- Spoon or small whisk – helps mix protein powder and molasses smoothly into the oats.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the oats, spices, and liquids just right.
- Refrigerator – essential for chilling and softening the oats during the night.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a tablespoon of almond butter or peanut butter for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
- Mix in chopped apples or grated carrot for added texture and a fresh twist on the gingerbread flavor.
- Swap the protein powder for collagen peptides if you prefer a tasteless protein boost.
- Top with a drizzle of maple syrup or a few chocolate chips for a sweeter finish.
How to Make High Protein Gingerbread Overnight Oats
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- ½ cup rolled oats
- 1 scoop vanilla or unflavored protein powder (about 25g protein)
- ½ cup milk of choice (dairy or plant-based)
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (for extra protein)
- 1 tbsp molasses (for gingerbread flavor and sweetness)
- 1 tbsp chia seeds (optional, adds texture and nutrition)
- Pinch of salt
Spices:
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
Toppings:
- Chopped pecans or walnuts
- A dollop of Greek yogurt
- Crushed gingerbread cookie
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 5 minutes of hands-on preparation time, plus at least 4 hours (ideally overnight) of refrigeration. The oats soak and soften during this time, making for a creamy and convenient breakfast ready when you are.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl or jar, combine the rolled oats, protein powder, chia seeds (if using), ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices and protein powder.
2. Add Wet Ingredients:
Pour in the milk, Greek yogurt, and molasses. Stir everything together thoroughly, making sure there are no clumps. The molasses gives it that special gingerbread sweetness and flavor.
3. Refrigerate Overnight:
Cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap and place it in the fridge. Allow it to chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for a creamy, thick texture.
4. Stir and Adjust:
In the morning, give the oats a good stir. If the mixture is too thick for your liking, add a little extra milk to loosen it up.
5. Add Toppings and Serve:
Top your overnight oats with chopped nuts, a dollop of Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, and a small gingerbread cookie for decoration and added texture. Enjoy cold straight from the fridge, or gently warm it in the microwave if you prefer a warm breakfast.
Can I Use Frozen or Instant Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
You can use quick or instant oats, but the texture will be softer and less chewy. Avoid steel-cut oats as they need longer cooking time and won’t soften properly overnight.
How Long Can I Store Overnight Oats in the Fridge?
Overnight oats keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give them a good stir before eating, and add a little milk if the mixture has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Absolutely! Use a plant-based protein powder and swap Greek yogurt for a dairy-free alternative like coconut or almond milk yogurt. Choose plant milk for the liquid to keep it fully vegan.
Can I Adjust the Sweetness or Spice Levels?
Yes! Add more molasses or a drizzle of maple syrup for extra sweetness. Feel free to increase or decrease the spices to suit your taste, adding more ginger or cinnamon for a stronger gingerbread flavor.