Celebrate Autumn With These Seasonal Overnight Oats Flavours

The start of autumn brings crisp air and also the desire for warmth, and comfortable flavours. Gone are the days with the yoghurt-infused, tropical fruit breakfast, feast instead it's all about the rich autumnal ingredients bringing warmth to your meals. 

For years, overnight oats have been breakfast staples for many: simple and healthy. They can be prepared the night before, eaten for breakfast or lunch, and the best part? They are boundlessly customizable. As autumn rolls in, it's time to get rid of the usual ingredients that spice up your mix-ins and adapt to the tastes of the season. 

Also read: Around The World In Autumn Food Traditions

Go from cinnamon's warm comfort to apples and maple syrup's natural sweetness with these six autumn-inspired flavours, which can easily transform your overnight oats into a seasonal delight. 

Cinnamon and Nutmeg 

Nothing says autumn like cinnamon and nutmeg. These spices warm you over the oats, reminiscent of apple pies and all things spiced with pumpkin. The pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg in this recipe flavours it, and also helps to secretly lace in just enough sweetness without adding any extra sugar.  

You may add all these spices to the oats or sprinkle them directly on top before serving. Then, you can further elevate this by adding toasted pecans or walnuts for extra crunch. The pairing is sure to leave you with cosy autumn vibes in every bite. 

Video credit: Downshiftology

Apple and Maple Syrup 

Apples are one of the staples fruits for fall and really complement oats. You can grate or finely chop a fresh apple to add it to your overnight oats, bringing in some natural sweetness and a refreshing crunch. Green apples work really well if you want a tart note, whereas red apples bring a softer sweetness.  

For added fall flair, drizzle a spoonful of pure maple syrup over your oats. The deep, caramel-like flavour of the syrup pairs beautifully with the apple for a delicious warming breakfast that tastes like a bite of fall in every bite. 

Pumpkin and Pumpkin Spice 

It makes the fruit synonymous with autumn, and you cannot find a better combination for pumpkin spice lovers other than putting it in your overnight oats. Pure pumpkin purée is just the right addition to creame up your oats, and also pumpkins are nutrient-dense food that can add fibre and vitamins to your breakfast. 

Sprinkle in some pumpkin spice-a mixture of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. Give your oats that classic fall flavour. Add a hint of maple syrup or honey sweetness to your oats and top them with toasted pumpkin seeds for added crunch. 

Pears and Ginger 

Pears are good too, though they rarely share the spotlight with apples in autumn. They make for a sweet, juicy texture that mixes well into those oats, and with ginger, they take on a whole new flavour dimension.  

Add finely diced pears to your oats and sprinkle some ground ginger or a pinch of fresh grated ginger. The slight heat from the ginger balances the sweetness from the pears, and it gives your breakfast a bright yet warming twist. You may also add a little sprinkle of cinnamon on top. 

Cranberries and Orange Zest 

Cranberries are lovely and actually makes oatmeal very pleasant in the fall. Whether one is working with fresh cranberries or dried, lots of colour and a zingy flavour that cuts through the richness of the oats takes place.  

To finish off the flavour as autumnal, sprinkle on a little orange zest. The zest adds a fresh citrus note to the brightness from the tartness in the cranberries. The honey or agave syrup can round out the tart flavours, making this breakfast both vibrant and balanced. 

Chai Spices and Almond Butter 

If you are one of those people who can enjoy a nice chai latte in the cooler months, why not bring those flavours into your oats? Chai spice combines cinnamon and cardamom with the deep, fiery flavour of cloves and a kick of black pepper to add depth and a nice aromatic flavour to the oats. 

Add in some swirl of almond butter for a little creamy texture and additional protein. The nutty flavour combines with spices so well that you will feel you are being indulged while still really nourished with this warm, hearty breakfast. Add some sliced almonds on top for a bit of crunch.